Sizzling Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut, and Potatoes Recipe

My grandma’s cherished hearty Polish sausage recipe brings comfort straight from her Warsaw kitchen.

Generations of memories simmer within this rustic dish that connects generations.

Robust kielbasa mingles with tangy sauerkraut and earthy potatoes for a meal that warms every corner of your soul.

Peasant cooking meets pure satisfaction through simple, honest ingredients carefully combined.

Regional spices dance across each bite, telling stories of traditional Polish culinary wisdom.

Rich aromas will draw everyone around the table, eager to share this authentic feast.

Let this classic combination transport you to a cozy Polish farmhouse with each delicious forkful.

FAQs

• What is kielbasa and how is it different from other sausages?

Kielbasa is a traditional Polish sausage made from pork or beef, typically seasoned with garlic, marjoram, and other spices. Unlike other sausages, it has a distinctive smoky flavor and is usually pre-cooked, making it perfect for quick skillet meals.

• Can I use fresh sauerkraut instead of jarred?

Yes, fresh sauerkraut works wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure to drain it well before adding to the skillet to prevent excess liquid. Fresh sauerkraut can sometimes have a more vibrant and tangy flavor compared to jarred versions.

• Is this dish considered healthy?

While delicious, this dish is hearty and relatively high in calories. It provides good protein from the kielbasa and beneficial probiotics from sauerkraut. For a lighter version, you can use turkey kielbasa and reduce the butter or oil.

• What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape well during cooking and won’t turn mushy. They’ll provide a nice texture and absorb the flavors of the sausage and sauerkraut perfectly.

Why Polish Sausage with Sauerkraut Works So Well

• A soul-warming dish that brings traditional Polish flavors to your dinner table with minimal cooking skills required.
• Classic recipe that connects generations through simple, rustic ingredients everyone loves, creating memorable meal experiences.
• Versatile dish allows personal touches like adding different herbs or swapping proteins, making it adaptable to individual tastes and pantry supplies.

Ingredients for Polish Sausage & Sauerkraut Dish

• Polish Kielbasa Sausage: A classic, smoky sausage that adds rich flavor and hearty protein to the dish.

• Potatoes, Onions: Potatoes provide a comforting, starchy base while onions offer a sweet and savory depth to the recipe.
• Sauerkraut: Tangy fermented cabbage that brings a distinctive, zesty taste and adds a traditional Polish touch.

• Chicken Broth: Helps to create moisture and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Butter or Oil: Provides a medium for sautéing and adds a rich, golden color to the ingredients.
• Salt, Pepper: Basic seasonings that help to balance and intensify the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• Mustard: An optional condiment that adds a sharp, tangy complement to the sausage and potatoes.
• Crusty Bread: A suggested side that can be used for soaking up the delicious cooking juices.

Cooking Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut, and Potatoes

Step 1: Sizzle Kielbasa to Perfection

Warm a generous splash of butter or oil in a spacious skillet over medium-high heat.

Slice the Polish sausage into hearty rounds and brown them until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust on both sides.

Once beautifully caramelized, transfer the kielbasa to a waiting plate.

Step 2: Dance Potatoes and Onions in the Skillet

• Diced potatoes
• Chopped onions

Sauté these ingredients, stirring occasionally, until they turn a stunning golden color and become almost tender.

Step 3: Introduce Sauerkraut and Reunite Kielbasa

Dump the tangy sauerkraut into the skillet and gently return the browned kielbasa back to the party.

Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to start mingling.

Step 4: Simmer and Merge Flavors

Pour chicken broth over the mixture, ensuring everything is nicely coated.

Cover the skillet and let it simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes.

This allows the potatoes to become fork-tender and lets all the delicious flavors blend harmoniously.

Step 5: Season and Serve with Flair

Taste the dish and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve piping hot alongside spicy mustard or crusty bread for a truly satisfying meal.

Pro Tips for a Hearty Polish Sausage Meal

• Choose high-quality Polish sausage with robust flavor for the best taste and authentic texture.
• Slice potatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking and consistent tenderness throughout the dish.
• Drain sauerkraut well to prevent excess liquid and maintain the right balance of ingredients in the skillet.
• Brown kielbasa first to develop deep, caramelized notes that will enhance the overall dish's richness.
• Taste before adding salt, as sauerkraut and kielbasa already contain significant saltiness.

Store and Reheat Polish Sausage & Potatoes

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Cool the dish completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Transfer portions to freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Label with the date and contents.
• Place portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.
• Warm the dish in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly, about 5-7 minutes.

Sides for Polish Sausage and Sauerkraut

Pairing Polish Comfort with Perfect Companions

• Complement with Beer: Select a crisp, medium-bodied Polish lager like Żywiec or Tyskie that cuts through the dish's richness and matches its hearty eastern European character.
• Match with Tangy Condiments: Serve alongside spicy brown mustard or horseradish sauce to enhance the kielbasa's robust flavor and add a zesty kick to each bite.
• Elevate with Fresh Sides: Prepare a light cucumber salad dressed with dill and vinegar to balance the meal's heaviness and provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory skillet.
• Balance with Crisp Wine: Choose a dry Riesling or Gewürztraminer with slight acidity that stands up to the sausage's smoky notes while cleansing the palate between bites.

Twist Ideas for Polish Sausage Dishes

• Vegetarian Polish Feast: Replace kielbasa with plant-based sausage or smoked tofu, using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a meat-free version.
• Low-Carb Polish Comfort: Swap potatoes with cauliflower florets or turnips to reduce carbohydrate content while maintaining the traditional flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Polish Skillet: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free, and serve with gluten-free bread or skip the bread entirely for a safe meal option.
• Spicy Polish Remix: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to bring extra heat and excitement to the traditional recipe, creating a zesty variation for spice lovers.

Hearty Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut, and Potatoes Recipe

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4.9 from 21 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Rustic Polish Sausage Skillet brings old-world comfort from Poland’s countryside kitchens to your dinner table. Savory kielbasa, tangy sauerkraut, and golden potatoes create a soul-warming meal you’ll crave on chilly evenings.

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Ingredients

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Main Protein:

• 1 lb (454 grams) Polish sausage (kielbasa), sliced

Vegetables:

• 4 medium potatoes, diced
• 3 cups (710 milliliters) sauerkraut, drained
• 1 onion, sliced (optional)

Cooking and Seasoning:

• 1 tablespoon butter or oil
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) chicken broth or water

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Instructions

1. Warm a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat with your preferred cooking fat, ensuring an even coating across the surface.
2. Arrange kielbasa slices in a single layer, allowing each side to develop a rich, caramelized golden-brown crust. Transfer the seared sausage to a separate plate once browned.
3. Using the same skillet with residual flavor from the sausage, introduce diced potatoes and chopped onions. Sauté the vegetables, stirring occasionally, until they achieve a deep golden color and reach near-tenderness.
4. Incorporate sauerkraut into the skillet, spreading it evenly across the potatoes and onions. Carefully return the browned kielbasa to the mixture, gently combining all components.
5. Pour chicken broth over the ingredients, creating a shallow liquid base. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and reduce heat to low, allowing the dish to simmer gently for 15-20 minutes.
6. Verify potato softness and flavor integration. Adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the overall taste profile.
7. Serve piping hot, accompanied by tangy mustard or crusty artisan bread to complement the robust flavors of this traditional Polish-inspired one-pan meal.

Notes

• Slice kielbasa uniformly to ensure even browning and consistent texture throughout the dish.
• Choose waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for better holding shape during cooking and preventing mushiness.
• Rinse sauerkraut lightly before adding to reduce excessive saltiness and balance overall flavor profile.
• Consider using low-sodium chicken broth to control salt content and customize seasoning preferences.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Polish

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 24 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 12 g
• Cholesterol: 55 mg