Crockpot Kielbasa and Sauerkraut
Craving a comforting, hearty meal that’s easy to prepare? Look no further than our Crockpot Kielbasa and Sauerkraut. This delightful dish combines the rich, smoky flavors of Polska Kielbasa with the tangy zest of sauerkraut, all sweetened with a touch of brown sugar and complemented by the natural sweetness of a Gala apple and a small sweet onion. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this recipe allows you to set it and forget it, thanks to the convenience of your slow cooker.
Crockpot Kielbasa and Sauerkraut
Imagine coming home to the mouthwatering aroma of slow-cooked kielbasa and sauerkraut wafting through your kitchen. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its incredible flavors but also in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a meal that tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. The combination of savory sausage, tart sauerkraut, and the subtle sweetness from the apple and brown sugar creates a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds.
Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or looking for an easy, satisfying meal, this Crockpot Kielbasa and Sauerkraut is sure to become a favorite in your household. It’s a one-pot wonder that requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) taste even better the next day, making it a perfect make-ahead dish for meal planning. Join us as we dive into this deliciously simple recipe that’s guaranteed to warm your soul and satisfy your hunger.
If you are not a fan of sauerkraut (or think you aren’t a fan) you have to try this dish, you might just be shocked with how amazing it tastes!
Ingredients
- 3-4 (14 ounce) packages of Polska Kielbasa, chopped
- 32 ounce bag/jar sauerkraut
- 3 TBSP Brown Sugar
- 1 Small Sweet Onion
- 1 Gala Apple, peeled and sliced thin
How to make Crockpot Kielbasa and Sauerkraut
- Add all of your ingredients to your slow cooker. Stir to combine well.
- Cook on HIGH for 4 hours, LOW for 6 hours.
Can I still Make This If I Do Not Have A Crockpot
Stovetop Method:
- Prepare Ingredients: Chop the kielbasa and slice the apple and onion.
- Cook Ingredients: In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chopped onion and apple in a bit of oil over medium heat until they start to soften.
- Combine and Simmer: Add the sauerkraut, brown sugar, and chopped kielbasa to the pot. Stir to combine well.
- Simmer: Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors are well combined and the kielbasa is heated through.
Oven Method:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Ingredients: Chop the kielbasa and slice the apple and onion.
- Combine in Baking Dish: In a large baking dish, combine the sauerkraut, brown sugar, apple, onion, and chopped kielbasa. Stir to mix everything together.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 45-60 minutes, or until the ingredients are heated through and the flavors have melded together.
Both methods will deliver a delicious result similar to the crockpot version, with the stovetop method being quicker and the oven method providing a similar slow-cooked effect.
What Else Can I Use Besides Kielbasa
If you’re looking to switch things up in your Crockpot Kielbasa and Sauerkraut recipe, there are several delicious meat alternatives you can try:
Fresh Kielbasa: This is a less processed version of Polska kielbasa and offers a milder flavor. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a more authentic, traditional taste.
Chicken Sausage: A lighter option with a slightly different flavor profile. It pairs well with the sweetness of the apples and the tang of the sauerkraut, making for a deliciously balanced dish.
Bratwurst: Another great choice, bratwurst has a rich, savory flavor that complements the sauerkraut perfectly. It’s especially good if you’re looking for a heartier meal.
Smoked Sausage: If you enjoy a smoky flavor, this is a fantastic option. The smokiness adds depth to the dish, making it even more flavorful.
Turkey Sausage: A leaner alternative that still packs a lot of flavors. It’s a great choice if you’re looking to cut down on fat without sacrificing taste.
Andouille Sausage: If you like a bit of spice, andouille sausage will add a nice kick to the dish. The spiciness pairs well with the sweet and sour flavors of the recipe.
These alternatives allow you to customize the dish to your taste preferences while keeping the ease and deliciousness of the original recipe.
Tips & Tricks
- Choose High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality kielbasa and sauerkraut for the best flavor. Fresh, locally sourced products can make a significant difference in the taste of the dish.
- Balance the Sweetness: Adjust the amount of brown sugar according to your taste preference. If you prefer a sweeter dish, you can add a bit more sugar, or reduce it if you like a tangier flavor.
- Cook Low and Slow: While the recipe can be made on high heat for 4 hours, cooking on low for 6 hours can enhance the flavors even more, making the dish even more delicious.
- Use Fresh Apple: The type of apple can affect the dish. Gala apples add a nice sweetness and hold their shape well, but you can experiment with other varieties like Granny Smith for a tarter flavor.
- Season to Taste: Don’t forget to taste the dish before serving. Depending on your sauerkraut’s saltiness, you might need to adjust the seasoning with a bit of extra salt or pepper.
- Add Caraway Seeds: If you enjoy the flavor of caraway seeds, adding a teaspoon to the sauerkraut mixture can provide an additional layer of flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.
- Reheat Properly: Leftovers can be easily reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop. The flavors often improve the next day, making it a great make-ahead meal.
FAQs
Crockpot Kielbasa and Sauerkraut
Crockpot Kielbasa and Sauerkraut is the ultimate comfort dish that is easy to make thanks to your slow cooker as it combines Kielbasa, sauerkraut, brown sugar, onions, and apples into a new family favorite everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 3-4 (14 ounce) packages of Polska Kielbasa, chopped
- 32 ounce bag/jar sauerkraut
- 3 TBSP Brown Sugar
- 1 Small Sweet Onion
- 1 Gala Apple, peeled and sliced thin
Instructions
- Add all of your ingredients to your slow cooker. Stir to combine well.
- Cook on HIGH for 4 hours, LOW for 6 hours.
I’m Melissa, the imaginative force behind Sparkles to Sprinkles, where creativity comes to life, and sprinkles of joy are scattered generously. Melissa is a proud Jersey girl who found love with a New York boy. As a mom to four wonderful boys and a few fur babies, her journey into the world of blogging began after making the life-changing decision to stay home and raise her children. Previously a dedicated workaholic, Melissa’s blog became her creative outlet and passion project. Inspired by her mother-in-law, a masterful cook renowned for her delicious home-cooked meals and legendary holiday feasts (think mouthwatering sausage stuffing), Melissa honed her culinary skills through a combination of family recipes and countless cooking classes. She often attended these classes with her son Michael, who shared her enthusiasm for cooking from a young age. Melissa’s love for learning extends beyond familiar cuisines, as she enjoys exploring international recipes in hands-on cooking classes. Her blog features a diverse array of recipes, showcasing her expertise with various kitchen appliances such as the Instant Pot, air fryer, Slow Cooker, Ninja Foodi, Instant Vortex Plus, and more. Join Melissa on her culinary adventures as she shares tried-and-true family favorites alongside exciting new discoveries!
I only added a cup of water because recipe didn’t say. What about salt and pepper?
You can absolutely add some salt & pepper
What is the serving size for this recipe? I can’t wait to make it this week!
You can feed at least 6 people. Enjoy! It’s delicious
Can you add a few potatoes and carrots?
Absolutely
I forgot to drain the sauerkraut. Will this ruin my dish? I love sauerkraut so I don’t mind the tartness of it, but will it make it overwhelming?
You will be just fine. 🙂