Kielbasa and Sauerkraut

This one pan Kielbasa and Sauerkraut comes together in minutes. The smoked sausage combined with the tangy sauerkraut, is a hearty meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients to Make Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Recipe

The savory flavors in this easy kielbasa sauerkraut dish are simply delicious! You can serve this dish as an entree or as a side dish depending on the appetites of those you’re serving. Ingredients to make Kielbasa and Sauerkraut: (Scroll down for full printable recipe card.)

• Sausage – Fully cooked kielbasa sausage sliced into 1/2 inch rounds.
• Sauerkraut – Drained sauerkraut. You can use canned sauerkraut or Deli sauerkraut.
• Onion and Garlic – Red onion or sweet onion plus minced garlic cloves to expand the flavor.
• Oil – Olive oil or vegetable oil for frying the kielbasa. You could also use a combination of butter and oil. 
• Sugar – A small amount of light brown sugar balances the briny flavor of the fermented cabbage in the sauerkraut.
• Mustard – Horseradish mustard or whole grain mustard adds a tangy flavor.
• Pepper – Black pepper to taste OR you could use crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
• Herbs – Fresh thyme or parsley for garnishing.

How to Make the BEST Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Recipe

• Prep the Kielbasa – Using a sharp knife, slice the kielbasa.
• Fry the Sausage – Cook kielbasa slices in olive oil on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet.
• Cook the Onion in the Drippings – Sauté the red onion and garlic until browned then add the sauerkraut.
• Add Sugar and Seasonings – Add light brown sugar, mustard and black pepper and continue to sauté over medium-high heat until the sauerkraut is heated through and onion has softened.
• Combine – Return the kielbasa slices to the sauerkraut mixture and stir to combine. Simmer for a few minutes so the flavors can marry.
• Serve – Serve garnished with fresh parsley or thyme.

Tips to Make Kielbasa and Sauerkraut

• Kitchen Tools You’ll Need: Large skillet (12-inch skillet) measuring cups, measuring spoons, sharp knife and chopping board.
• Drain the Sauerkraut Well: It’s important to remove any excess moisture from the sauerkraut prior to adding it to the skillet. This will ensure the savory flavor shines through and the dish won’t become watery.
• Side Dishes to Serve with Kielbasa and Sauerkraut: You can serve this with a side of sweet apples, mashed potatoes, green beans and potatoes, cornbread or sweet potatoes.

Recipe Variations

• Protein: You can use smoked sausage, pork sausage, turkey kielbasa or chicken sausage in place of kielbasa.
• Mustard: You can use Dijon mustard or creole mustard in place of horseradish mustard or whole grain mustard. The amount would remain the same.
• Seasonings: You can add a 1/2 teaspoon of fennel seeds or caraway seeds to the onions. 
• Salt: The sauerkraut will likely have ample salt already added to the flavor. Taste and adjust the salt, adding more to your personal taste.
• Potatoes: You could add cubed potatoes to the onion and garlic, cooking until they’re fork tender before proceeding with the recipe.
• Apples: You could also add diced Granny Smith apples to the pot for a hint of sweetness.

Storage and Leftovers

• Leftovers: You can store leftovers of this Kielbasa and Sauerkraut meal in an airtight container chilled in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in single servings in the microwave or in a saucepan over medium heat.
• Freezer: You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat just before serving.

More Easy Skillet Meals to Make

• Farmer’s Breakfast Skillet is made with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.
• Supreme Pizza Pasta Skillet comes together in no time flat.
• Cheesy Nacho Beef Rotini Skillet is a one dish meal.
• Skillet Cowboy Rice Casserole is packed with flavor.
• Skillet Fried Chicken with Bacon Gravy is comfort food 101.
• Colorful Sauteed Sirloin Tips with Bell Peppers and Onion.
• Simple Pan Seared Fish from Southern Living.

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Helpful Kitchen Items:

• 12-inch Skillet
• Measuring Set
• Kitchen Utensils
• Knives and Chopping Board