Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut, and Potatoes is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together simple yet classic ingredients to create a cozy, satisfying meal. It’s not heavy or overly complicated, but it has all the elements of comfort that make you feel warm inside.

If you’re looking for an easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this recipe will not disappoint. The savory sausage pairs beautifully with tangy sauerkraut and tender potatoes, creating a blend of flavors that’s both rustic and delicious. And if you’re not a huge fan of sauerkraut, don’t worry! The flavors mellow and blend together perfectly during cooking, making the dish enjoyable for everyone. This one-pot wonder brings a delightful combination of savory, tangy, and hearty flavors that will keep you coming back for more.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Large skillet or Dutch oven
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Colander (for draining sauerkraut, if needed)
Pot or large saucepan (for pre-cooking potatoes)

Ingredients Overview

Main Ingredients:

Polish Sausage: Adds a savory and smoky flavor to the dish. Use your preferred type of sausage, whether it’s smoked or fresh.
Sauerkraut: Provides a tangy, fermented flavor that complements the richness of the sausage and potatoes.
Potatoes: Use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a creamy texture that holds up well during cooking.

Flavor Boosters:

Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the dish when sautéed with the sausage.
Garlic: Enhances the overall flavor with a rich, aromatic note.
Caraway Seeds: Optional, but they add a traditional flavor that pairs wonderfully with sauerkraut.

Seasonings:

Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
Butter or Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and adding a rich flavor to the vegetables.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes: Peel (if desired) and cut the potatoes into bite-sized chunks. Place them in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until just tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat a bit of butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced Polish sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add a bit more butter or oil if needed. Sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the Sauerkraut: Drain the sauerkraut (if it’s too sour for your taste, rinse it briefly with cold water). Add the sauerkraut to the skillet with the onions and garlic, stirring well to combine. If using, sprinkle in caraway seeds at this point.
Combine and Simmer: Return the browned sausage to the skillet along with the cooked potatoes. Stir everything together and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and let simmer over low heat for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Serve: Remove from heat and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy this hearty dish with crusty bread or a side salad!

Recipe Tips

Adjust the Tanginess: If you’re not a fan of strong sauerkraut, rinse it with cold water to mellow the flavor before adding it to the dish.
Cooking the Potatoes: Pre-cooking the potatoes ensures they are tender and cook evenly with the rest of the ingredients.
Add Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped fresh dill or parsley adds a bright, fresh finish to the dish.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut, and Potatoes pairs wonderfully with:

Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the delicious juices from the sauerkraut and sausage.
Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the hearty flavors of the dish.
Roasted Vegetables: Add more vegetables to your meal with a side of roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes! This dish reheats well, and the flavors actually deepen and improve overnight. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely. You can use smoked sausage, kielbasa, or any type of sausage you enjoy. Just keep in mind that different sausages will add their unique flavor to the dish.

How do I adjust the flavor of the sauerkraut?
If you find sauerkraut too tangy, give it a quick rinse with cold water before using. You can also add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors if desired.

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months and reheat in a skillet or microwave when ready to eat.

Serving Suggestions

Family Dinner: Serve with a side of crusty bread and a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Potluck or Gathering: This dish is perfect for potlucks. Keep it warm in a slow cooker and let guests serve themselves.
Comfort Food Night: Pair with roasted vegetables and a glass of your favorite beer for a comforting evening meal.

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds Polish sausage, sliced
2 pounds Yukon Gold or red potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
24 ounces sauerkraut, drained (and rinsed, if desired)
1-2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh dill or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Peel and cut the potatoes into chunks. Boil in salted water until just tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat. Brown the sliced Polish sausage for 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Add the drained sauerkraut to the skillet, stirring well. If using, sprinkle in caraway seeds.
Return the sausage to the skillet along with the cooked potatoes. Season with salt and pepper, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh dill or parsley if desired.

Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut, and Potatoes!