Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Skillet Recipe
Introduction
Kielbasa and sauerkraut is a classic, comforting dish that combines smoky sausage with tangy fermented cabbage. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for a hearty weeknight meal. This recipe delivers bold flavors with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 1 pound kielbasa (sliced)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cups sauerkraut (drained well)
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
Instructions
- Step 1: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add kielbasa slices and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Step 2: Stir in sauerkraut, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, caraway seeds, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Step 3: Cover the skillet and simmer on medium-low heat for 10 minutes.
- Step 4: Uncover and cook for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, or until most of the liquid has evaporated.
- Step 5: Taste and adjust the black pepper as needed before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream or serve with mustard on the side.
- Substitute kielbasa with smoked sausage or bratwurst for different flavors.
- Omit caraway seeds if you prefer a milder flavor or if unavailable.
- Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the juices.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave until warmed through. Avoid overheating to maintain the texture of the kielbasa and sauerkraut.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cabbage instead of sauerkraut?
Fresh cabbage won’t have the same tangy flavor as sauerkraut, but you can use it if you steam or sauté it first and add a splash of vinegar to mimic the acidity.
Is this dish gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as the kielbasa and chicken broth you use do not contain gluten additives. Always check packaging to be sure.
PrintKielbasa and Sauerkraut Skillet Recipe
A savory and comforting Kielbasa and Sauerkraut dish featuring browned kielbasa sausage simmered with tangy sauerkraut, Dijon mustard, and subtle spices. This skillet recipe offers a quick and flavorful meal perfect for pairing with hearty sides or enjoying on its own.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Polish
Ingredients
Sausage
- 1 pound kielbasa, sliced
- 1 tablespoon butter
Sauerkraut Mixture
- 2 cups sauerkraut, drained well
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
Instructions
- Brown the Kielbasa: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook, stirring occasionally, until it is nicely browned and heated through, about 5 minutes.
- Add Sauerkraut and Seasonings: Stir in the well-drained sauerkraut along with the chicken broth, Dijon mustard, caraway seeds, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly to combine the flavors.
- Simmer Covered: Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the mixture simmer gently for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauerkraut to soften.
- Uncover and Reduce: Remove the lid and continue cooking for another 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid has evaporated and the dish has thickened slightly.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste and adjust the black pepper as desired. Serve warm as a hearty main dish or alongside your favorite potatoes or bread.
Notes
- Drain the sauerkraut well to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.
- Caraway seeds add a traditional flavor, but can be omitted if unavailable or unwanted.
- Serve with mustard, rye bread, or boiled potatoes for a complete meal.
- Can be made with smoked sausage if kielbasa is not accessible.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: kielbasa, sauerkraut, sausage skillet, Polish recipe, comfort food, easy dinner
