Name: Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Polish
Ingredients: 2 teaspoons olive oil; 1 pound kielbasa sausage (do not use Italian sausage), cut into 2-inch chunks; ½ large onion, diced; 1 clove garlic, minced; ½ pound Yukon Gold potatoes (or red-skinned potatoes), diced ½ inch; 1 pound sauerkraut (preferably from the refrigerated section, not canned), rinsed and drained; 1 teaspoon caraway seed (optional); ¼ to ½ cup chicken stock (from rotisserie chicken or low sodium broth); Salt and pepper, to taste

If you’re looking for a comforting, no-fuss dinner that hits all the right notes—savory, tangy, and downright cozy—you’re going to love this Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Skillet Recipe. I absolutely love how this dish comes together with just a handful of ingredients, but packs so much flavor. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend when you want something hearty without the hassle, this skillet meal is my go-to. Trust me, once you try it, your family might just request it on repeat!

❤️

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: This recipe uses everyday ingredients that come together to create a dish that tastes anything but ordinary.
Speedy and Easy: From prep to plate in about 30 minutes—perfect for those nights when you want dinner on the table fast.
Flexible and Forgiving: You can easily tweak it with your favorite sausage or add extra veggies, making it truly your own.
Comfort Food Classic: The smoky kielbasa paired with tangy sauerkraut hits that cozy, hearty comfort food sweet spot.

A black pan filled with cooked light yellow sauerkraut mixed with small cubes of pale yellow potatoes forms the base layer. On top, there are eight thick pieces of rich reddish-brown sausage scattered evenly, some showing darker browned edges and one piece sliced to reveal a dense, moist texture inside. A wooden spoon with a smooth, light brown handle and dark bowl rests on the left side of the pan, partially submerged in the sauerkraut. The pan sits on a white marbled surface with a white and yellow striped cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Skillet, kielbasa skillet recipe, easy sauerkraut dinner, quick comfort food recipes, hearty sausage skillet

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Skillet Recipe brings its own charm. Choosing the right kielbasa—smoked and flavorful—is key, and fresh sauerkraut from the refrigerated section really elevates the whole dish. Plus, those Yukon Gold potatoes add a buttery, tender bite that’s just perfect.

Flat lay of a fresh whole kielbasa sausage link, a small heap of golden diced Yukon Gold potatoes, a halved large yellow onion with diced pieces nearby, one whole uncracked brown egg, a peeled garlic clove, a small white ceramic bowl filled with sauerkraut strands, a small white ceramic bowl containing golden olive oil, a small white ceramic bowl holding light amber chicken stock, and a small pile of brown caraway seeds, all arranged with perfect symmetry on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997 - Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Skillet, kielbasa skillet recipe, easy sauerkraut dinner, quick comfort food recipes, hearty sausage skillet

Olive oil: Helps sear the sausage and soften the veggies without overpowering their flavors.
Kielbasa sausage: Go for a good-quality smoked kielbasa (avoid Italian sausage here) to get that rich, smoky base.
Onion: Adds a sweet and savory layer after caramelizing.
Garlic: Brings that warm aroma that I can’t cook without.
Sauerkraut: I prefer fresh, refrigerated sauerkraut—it’s less harsh and more vibrant than canned.
Yukon Gold potatoes: These potatoes hold their shape beautifully and bring a tender creaminess.
Caraway seed (optional): A little aromatic boost that pairs beautifully with sauerkraut if you’re feeling fancy.
Chicken stock: Gives the skillet a slight moisture and depth; homemade or low sodium broth works perfectly.
Salt and pepper: For seasoning to taste—don’t skip!

📝

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love that this Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Skillet Recipe is super adaptable. Sometimes I throw in extra veggies or switch up the sausage to shake things up a bit. Don’t hesitate to make it your own based on what you’ve got on hand or your flavor preferences.

Add Veggies: I once added diced bell peppers and mushrooms, which gave a wonderful earthiness and added texture—my family went crazy for this twist.
Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat; it wakes up the flavors nicely.
Low-Carb Version: Swap the potatoes for cauliflower rice and you have a tasty low-carb option without losing that satisfying skillet feel.
Broth Substitute: If you don’t have chicken stock, a splash of apple cider or beer works surprisingly well for flavor depth.

How to Make Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Kielbasa for Rich Flavor

Start by cutting your kielbasa into chunks about 2 inches long. Heat up your skillet with a couple teaspoons of olive oil over medium-high heat and add the sausage. Give it about 5 minutes of searing so it browns nicely and lets go of some of that fantastic smoky fat. This step really builds flavor, so don’t skip it! Once browned, transfer the sausage to a plate to rest for now.

Step 2: Cook Onion, Garlic, and Potatoes

In the same skillet (no need to clean it), toss in your diced onion, minced garlic, and the potatoes. Pop a lid on the pan to speed up cooking and let everything soften and develop golden edges—this usually takes around 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks or burns. The potatoes should be tender but still hold their shape.

Step 3: Add Sauerkraut and Build the Skillet

Rinse your sauerkraut under cool water and let it drain well—this step is key to mellow out the tang and avoid overpowering sourness. Add the drained sauerkraut to your skillet along with the caraway seeds if you’re using them, and pour in about a quarter cup of chicken stock. Give everything a good stir, then nestle the browned kielbasa chunks back into the pan. Cover and cook for another 5-6 minutes so all those flavors get to know each other.

Step 4: Finish and Adjust Seasoning

Check your skillet now. If it seems a little dry, add a splash more chicken broth to keep things moist and flavorful. Season with salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste. Give everything a final stir, and your Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Skillet Recipe is ready to serve!

👨‍🍳

Pro Tips for Making Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Skillet Recipe

Don’t Skip Rinsing Sauerkraut: I discovered this trick the hard way—rinsing really tames the sharp acidity and gives a nicer balance.
Sear Sausage Well: The caramelized crust on kielbasa adds incredible flavor and helps render fat for a juicy skillet.
Use a Non-Stick Skillet: It keeps the potatoes from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Trust me, I’ve tried cast iron and non-stick; for this one, non-stick wins.
Adjust Liquid Gradually: Adding broth little by little prevents the dish from getting soggy while keeping it moist.

How to Serve Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Skillet Recipe

Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Skillet Recipe - Serving

Garnishes

I usually sprinkle a bit of fresh chopped parsley over the top—it adds a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness that cuts through the richness. Sometimes, I like a little dollop of whole grain mustard on the side for an extra tangy bite that complements the sauerkraut perfectly.

Side Dishes

This skillet meal stands strong on its own, but a simple side salad or some crusty bread really rounds things out nicely. For a heartier meal, steamed green beans or roasted carrots add a lovely sweet contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy gathering, I like to serve this dish in cast-iron skillets right at the table—it looks rustic and inviting. Another fun idea: spoon it over buttered egg noodles or creamy polenta for a twist on presentation that gets rave reviews.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I usually let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating to keep the potatoes from getting mushy the next day.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this dish a couple of times for meal prep, and it freezes well—just cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge so it reheats evenly.

Reheating

To reheat, I gently warm it in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen everything up. This helps keep the potatoes tender and avoids drying out the kielbasa. Microwave works fine too but stir halfway to keep it even.

FAQs

Can I use other types of sausage instead of kielbasa?

You can, but I highly recommend sticking with smoked kielbasa for this recipe. Italian sausage or fresh sausage won’t provide the same smoky flavor that’s key to balancing the tang of the sauerkraut. If you want to swap, look for smoked sausage varieties made with pork or beef for the best results.
Why do you rinse the sauerkraut before cooking?

Great question! Rinsing sauerkraut softens its sharp acidity and reduces excess saltiness, which can overpower the dish. It keeps the keilbasa and potatoes from getting drowned out by too much sourness, giving you a more balanced flavor.
Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! This skillet meal reheats wonderfully and can be made a day ahead. Just store leftovers in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove with a little broth to keep everything moist. It’s perfect for meal planning.
What can I serve with Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Skillet Recipe?

I like to keep it simple with a fresh side salad, some crusty bread, or roasted veggies like carrots or green beans. A dollop of mustard on the side adds an extra layer of flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Skillet Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it combines so many wonderful flavors in such an easy, one-pan meal. When I first tried it, I was amazed at how quickly it came together and how satisfied everyone was after a busy day. Whether it becomes your weeknight staple or a dish you pull out for family dinners, I’m confident you’ll enjoy it as much as I do. Give it a try—and don’t forget the mustard!