Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut, and Potatoes is a hearty, comforting dish that combines savory smoked sausage, tangy sauerkraut, and tender potatoes. This one-pot meal is a traditional Eastern European favorite, perfect for cozy dinners, especially during cooler months. It’s easy to prepare and brings together bold flavors in a satisfying way.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Polish smoked sausage (kielbasa)
sauerkraut (drained and rinsed)
potatoes (russet or Yukon gold, peeled and diced)
onion (sliced)
garlic (minced)
olive oil or butter
chicken or vegetable broth
caraway seeds (optional)
salt and black pepper
fresh parsley (for garnish)
directions
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add sliced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add sliced sausage and brown slightly, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the broth just enough to cover the bottom of the pan.
Cover and cook for about 10 minutes or until potatoes begin to soften.
Add the drained sauerkraut and sprinkle with caraway seeds if using.
Stir well, cover again, and simmer for another 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and flavors meld.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 4-6 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Variations
Use sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes for a different flavor and nutritional boost.
Add apple slices or apple cider for a touch of sweetness.
Incorporate smoked paprika or mustard for added depth.
Make it in a slow cooker for a hands-off version.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months—thaw in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use uncooked sausage?
Yes, but make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding the other ingredients.
Should I rinse the sauerkraut?
Rinsing helps reduce the tanginess; skip it if you prefer a stronger flavor.
What type of potatoes work best?
Yukon gold or russet potatoes hold up well in this dish.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, carrots or cabbage are great additions.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, use vegetarian sausage and broth.
What’s the best sausage for this recipe?
Polish kielbasa is traditional, but any smoked sausage will work.
Do I need to use caraway seeds?
No, but they add an authentic flavor that complements the sauerkraut.
Can this be made in advance?
Yes, it’s even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
Can I make this spicy?
Add red pepper flakes or a spicy sausage variety.
Is this gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free sausage and broth.
Conclusion
Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut, and Potatoes is a simple, rustic dish that delivers big on flavor and comfort. Whether you’re looking for a traditional family dinner or an easy one-pot meal, this recipe fits the bill. Customize it to your liking, and enjoy a taste of Eastern European warmth any night of the week.
PrintPolish Sausage, Sauerkraut And Potatoes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Roasting + Sautéing
- Cuisine: Polish-inspired
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A comforting, hearty one‑pan meal combining smoky Polish sausage, tangy sauerkraut, and tender potatoes—perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Polish sausage (kielbasa), sliced into 1‑inch pieces
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
- 1 (14‑oz) can sauerkraut, drained and lightly rinsed
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 °F (200 °C).
- Toss potato halves with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet. Roast 20 minutes.
- While potatoes roast, heat remaining oil in a large oven‑safe skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add sliced sausage; cook until browned, about 5 minutes more.
- Stir in drained sauerkraut and caraway seeds (if using), and heat through.
- Remove potatoes from the oven; add to the skillet, tossing gently to combine.
- Transfer skillet to the oven and bake 10–15 minutes until flavors meld and potatoes are tender.
- Remove from oven, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- For milder flavor, rinse sauerkraut until liquid runs clear.
- Substitute sweet or smoked sausage if kielbasa isn’t available.
- Add sliced apple or a splash of apple juice during cooking for a touch of sweetness.
- To make it gluten‑free, ensure the sausage is certified gluten‑free.