Crockpot Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut And Potatoes Recipe

Savory Crockpot Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut And Potatoes Recipe

Slow cookers make magic with this hearty crockpot polish sausage stew that promises comfort in every bite.

Chunky potatoes and tangy sauerkraut create a classic combination that feels like a warm hug.

Robust polish sausage adds rich flavor to this simple yet satisfying dish.

Weeknight dinners just got easier with minimal prep and maximum deliciousness.

Crisp vegetables and savory meat blend perfectly in this one-pot wonder.

Home cooks can relax while the crockpot works its culinary charm.

Let this amazing recipe become your new go-to meal that everyone will request again and again.

Crockpot Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut, and Potatoes Essentials

  • Slam-Dunk Simplicity: No complicated steps or fancy techniques required, making this recipe perfect for beginners and busy home cooks who want a delicious meal without stress.
  • Hands-Off Cooking Magic: Crockpot method means you can walk away and let the appliance do all the hard work, giving you free time to relax or tackle other tasks while dinner practically makes itself.
  • Hearty Comfort Fusion: Classic combination of Polish sausage, sauerkraut, and potatoes creates a satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug, packed with robust flavors that transport you to traditional European comfort food.
  • One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in a single crockpot, reducing kitchen mess and saving precious time on dishwashing after a long day.

Ingredients for Crockpot Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut, and Potatoes

Main Protein:
  • Polish Sausage: A traditional, flavorful sausage that adds richness and depth to the dish.
Vegetables and Base:
  • Sauerkraut: A tangy, fermented cabbage that provides a zesty and acidic foundation for the recipe.
  • Potatoes: Hearty root vegetables that create a satisfying and filling base for the meal.
Liquid and Seasonings:
  • Chicken Broth: A savory liquid that helps cook and infuse flavor into the ingredients.
  • Caraway Seeds: A fragrant spice that brings a distinctive, earthy taste to the dish.
  • Bay Leaf: An aromatic herb that adds subtle complexity to the overall flavor profile.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance the taste of the ingredients.

How to Prepare Crockpot Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut, and Potatoes

Step 1: Spread The Sauerkraut

Generously spread the sauerkraut across the bottom of your crockpot, creating an even base layer that will infuse delicious tangy flavor into the entire dish.

Step 2: Create A Hearty Layer

Carefully arrange potato chunks over the sauerkraut, then gently place sliced Polish sausage on top to create a mouthwatering combination of textures and tastes.

Step 3: Craft The Flavor Enhancer

In a mixing bowl, combine:
  • Chicken broth
  • Caraway seeds
  • Bay leaf

Whisk these ingredients together until well blended, releasing their aromatic qualities.

Step 4: Season And Pour

Drizzle the prepared broth mixture over the layered ingredients in the crockpot.

Sprinkle salt and pepper to your liking, ensuring every bite will be perfectly seasoned.

Step 5: Slow Cook To Perfection

Cover the crockpot with its lid and set to high heat.

Let the ingredients simmer and meld together for 4 hours. Once cooking is complete, give everything a gentle stir to distribute the flavors evenly before serving this comforting meal.

Pro Tips for Crockpot Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut, and Potatoes

  • Drain sauerkraut partially to reduce excess liquid and prevent soggy dish, ensuring a more concentrated flavor profile.
  • Choose waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for better texture and ability to hold shape during slow cooking process.
  • Include chopped onions between sauerkraut and potatoes for added depth and sweetness in the overall dish.
  • Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or dill on top before serving to brighten the flavors and add a fresh herbal note.
  • Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels, allowing more precise seasoning control during cooking.

Variations on Crockpot Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut, and Potatoes

  • Vegetarian Swap: Replace Polish sausage with plant-based sausage or smoked tofu, maintaining the classic sauerkraut and potato base for a meat-free version.
  • Spicy German Remix: Add sliced jalapeños, hot paprika, and red pepper flakes to boost heat and create a zestier flavor profile.
  • Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute potatoes with cauliflower florets or turnips to reduce carbohydrate content while preserving the traditional cooking method.
  • Herb-Infused Variation: Incorporate fresh thyme, rosemary, and garlic to enhance the aromatic complexity of the original recipe, providing a more nuanced taste experience.

Pairings for Crockpot Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut, and Potatoes

  • Select a bold, full-bodied red wine like Zinfandel or Syrah to complement the rich, hearty flavors of the Polish sausage and sauerkraut.
  • Enhance the dish's traditional roots by serving a crisp, malty German lager or a wheat beer that cuts through the tanginess of sauerkraut.
  • Whip up a light cucumber and dill salad dressed with vinegar to balance the heaviness of the main course and add a fresh, zesty contrast.
  • Offer thick slices of rustic rye bread to soak up the flavorful broth and provide a satisfying textural element to the meal.

Storage Advice for Crockpot Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut, and Potatoes

  • Transfer leftovers to an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the container is clean and cool before placing inside.
  • Portion the cooled dish into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for maximum 2-3 months. Label containers with date and contents.
  • Place desired portion in microwave-safe dish. Cover with microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap with small vent. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

FAQs

  • Is this dish traditional in Poland?

This recipe is inspired by Polish cuisine but adapted for American kitchens, combining classic ingredients like Polish sausage and sauerkraut in a convenient crockpot method.

  • Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute Polish sausage with kielbasa, smoked bratwurst, or any similar hearty sausage that holds up well during slow cooking.

  • What do caraway seeds add to the recipe?

Caraway seeds provide a distinct earthy, slightly anise-like flavor that complements the sauerkraut and sausage, enhancing the overall taste profile of the dish.

  • Do I need to prep the potatoes in any special way?

Cut potatoes into uniform chunks about 1-2 inches in size to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.

Print
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Crockpot Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut And Potatoes Recipe

Crockpot Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut And Potatoes Recipe


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4.7 from 29 reviews

  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Polish sausage crockpot comfort blends hearty kielbasa with tangy sauerkraut and tender potatoes. German-inspired flavors meld perfectly for a simple, satisfying meal you’ll savor with each comforting bite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lb Polish sausage (sectioned into substantial pieces)
  • 56 medium gold potatoes (cut into large sections)
  • 16 oz sauerkraut
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth
  • 1 tsp caraway seeds
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Spread the sauerkraut evenly across the bottom of the crockpot, creating a tangy base layer.
  2. Carefully arrange potato chunks over the sauerkraut, creating a uniform second layer.
  3. Cut Polish sausage into diagonal segments and place them strategically atop the potatoes.
  4. Whisk chicken broth with caraway seeds and bay leaf in a separate mixing bowl until well combined.
  5. Gently pour the aromatic liquid mixture over the layered ingredients, ensuring even distribution.
  6. Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper across the surface to enhance overall flavor profile.
  7. Cover crockpot securely with its lid and set to high temperature for 4 hours.
  8. After cooking duration completes, remove bay leaf and thoroughly stir contents to integrate flavors.
  9. Allow mixture to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and settle.

Notes

  • Use high-quality Polish sausage with robust seasoning for maximum taste impact.
  • Choose fresh, tangy sauerkraut with crisp texture to enhance overall dish complexity.
  • Cut potatoes uniformly to ensure consistent cooking and prevent uneven texture.
  • Swap regular Polish sausage with turkey or chicken sausage for lighter protein option.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Polish

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 552 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 1220 mg
  • Fat: 38 g
  • Saturated Fat: 13 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 23 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 27 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg
Mike Reynolds

Mike Reynolds

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Farm-to-table cuisine, Seasonal recipe development, Sustainable cooking techniques, Food photography

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College (A-B Tech)
Associate Degree in Culinary Arts

Mike studied culinary arts with a strong focus on farm-to-table principles and sustainable cooking. His training emphasized the importance of fresh, local ingredients and environmentally responsible practices in the kitchen.


Mike’s food journey began deep in the Blue Ridge Mountains, where weekends at farmers’ markets and home-cooked meals sparked a lifelong obsession with simple, seasonal eating.
After earning his Associate Degree in Culinary Arts from Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, he set out to bring farm-to-table cooking into everyday kitchens, without the fuss.
Mike’s philosophy is all about keeping it fresh, unfussy, and full of heart. When he’s not crafting new single-serving recipes, he’s hiking mountain trails, chatting with local farmers, or experimenting with wild ingredients in his backyard kitchen.

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