Let’s be real for a second—some nights you just want dinner to work. No pile of dishes. No fancy steps. Just something warm, filling, and honestly… kinda comforting. That’s where this Sausage and Sauerkraut Skillet comes in. It’s one of those meals that smells amazing while it cooks and tastes even better once it hits the plate.
I’ve made this dish more times than I can count. Cold nights, busy weekdays, even lazy Sundays when the couch is calling my name. It always comes through. Simple ingredients, big flavor, and everything happens in one pan. That’s a win in my book.
If you’ve ever wondered how sausage and sauerkraut can feel cozy instead of sharp or sour, stick with me. This skillet proves it.
Why Americans Love Sausage and Sauerkraut Together
Sausage and sauerkraut has deep roots in German-style cooking, but here in the U.S., it’s become a comfort food staple. You’ll see it at family dinners, Oktoberfest-style gatherings, and honestly, weeknight tables across the country.
The reason is simple. Smoked sausage brings that savory, slightly salty bite. Sauerkraut adds tang and balance. When you cook them together—slowly, with butter, onion, and apple—the flavors mellow out and play nice.
This Sausage and Sauerkraut Skillet feels familiar, hearty, and satisfying without trying too hard. It’s the kind of food that fills you up and makes you feel good afterward. No fuss. No stress.
Ingredients That Make This Skillet Shine
You don’t need anything fancy here. Just solid ingredients that know how to do their job.
What You’ll Need
- 1 tablespoon butter
Or a little bacon grease if you’re feeling bold. Both work great. - 1 medium yellow onion, sliced thin
This adds sweetness and depth as it cooks down. - 1 apple, peeled and sliced
Yep, apple. Trust me on this one. It softens the tang from the sauerkraut. - 1 package smoked sausage
Kielbasa is my go-to, but any smoked sausage works. - 1 jar sauerkraut (about 16 ounces), drained
Rinse it if you like a milder taste. I usually do a quick rinse. - 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
Not required, but wow—they add classic flavor. - Black pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Totally optional, but it looks nice and fresh.
That’s it. No long shopping list. No rare items. Just pantry-friendly goodness.
How to Make Sausage and Sauerkraut Skillet (Step by Step)
This is a relaxed recipe. No rushing needed. Just let the skillet do the work.
Step 1: Start With Butter and Onion
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Once it melts, toss in the sliced onion. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring now and then, until the onion turns soft and slightly golden.
This step sets the tone. Let the onion get cozy in the pan.
Step 2: Add the Apple
Next, add the sliced apple. Cook it with the onion for another 3–4 minutes. The apple softens and releases just enough sweetness to balance everything later.
Honestly, this part smells amazing already.
Step 3: Brown the Sausage
Push the onion and apple to the side and add the sausage coins. Let them sit for a minute or two before stirring. You want a little color on them.
That browning adds flavor, plain and simple.
Step 4: Bring in the Sauerkraut
Now stir in the drained sauerkraut and sprinkle in the caraway seeds if you’re using them. Add black pepper to taste. Mix everything well so the flavors start mingling.
Lower the heat and let it cook for about 10–15 minutes. Stir once in a while, but don’t babysit it.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Taste and adjust the pepper if needed. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and serve it straight from the skillet.
And there you go. Dinner’s done.
What Makes This Skillet Recipe So Comforting
This Sausage and Sauerkraut Skillet works because every ingredient has a role.
- The sausage adds smoky richness
- The sauerkraut brings brightness
- The apple smooths out the sharp edges
- The onion ties it all together
Nothing fights for attention. It just works.
Plus, everything cooks in one pan, which means less cleanup. And let’s face it—that matters.
Easy Tips to Make It Even Better
I’ve cooked this dish a lot, so here are a few real-life tips:
- Rinse the sauerkraut if you’re new to it. You can always add tang later.
- Slice the sausage evenly so it browns at the same rate.
- Use a wide skillet to avoid steaming instead of browning.
- Let it rest for a minute before serving. The flavors settle in nicely.
Small things, big payoff.
What to Serve With Sausage and Sauerkraut Skillet
This dish holds its own, but if you want sides, here are a few favorites:
- Mashed potatoes
- Buttered egg noodles
- Crusty bread or dinner rolls
- Simple green salad
My personal move? A big spoonful of this skillet over mashed potatoes. No regrets.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which isn’t guaranteed), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep for up to 3 days.
To reheat:
- Warm it in a skillet over low heat
- Or microwave in short bursts, stirring between rounds
It actually tastes better the next day. I said what I said.
Final Thoughts on This Sausage and Sauerkraut Skillet
This Sausage and Sauerkraut Skillet is one of those recipes you come back to again and again. It’s simple, filling, and full of flavor without being complicated. Perfect for busy nights, chilly evenings, or anytime you want real food that feels like home.
If you’ve been unsure about sauerkraut, this is the recipe to try first. It’s friendly, balanced, and easygoing—just like a good skillet dinner should be.
Now grab that pan and get cooking. You’ve got this. 🍽️