Description

Few meals capture the essence of hearty, home-cooked comfort like Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut, and Potatoes. This dish is a flavorful celebration of rustic ingredients, bringing together smoky Polish sausage, tangy sauerkraut, and tender potatoes in a way that’s both satisfying and delicious. Whether you're looking for a simple weeknight meal or something to serve to family and friends, this recipe delivers bold, savory flavors that are perfect for cold weather or when you're craving something substantial. With minimal prep time and easy-to-find ingredients, this dish is as convenient as it is tasty.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Polish sausage (kielbasa), sliced
• 4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 can (14 oz) sauerkraut, drained
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by prepping the key ingredients. Peel and cube the potatoes into bite-sized pieces and chop the onion. Slice the Polish sausage (kielbasa) into thick rounds. For the sauerkraut, drain the liquid to prevent the dish from becoming overly sour. If you enjoy a more mild sauerkraut flavor, you can rinse it under cold water before using it in the recipe.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced Polish sausage to the pan and cook until the sausage is browned on all sides, about 5–7 minutes. Browning the sausage not only adds flavor but also enhances the texture by giving it a slight crisp. Once the sausage is nicely browned, remove it from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion
In the same pan, add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, or until softened and translucent. The onions will pick up some of the flavorful bits left behind by the sausage, adding depth to the overall dish. If the pan seems too dry, you can add a little more olive oil to prevent the onions from sticking.

Step 4: Add the Potatoes
Add the cubed potatoes to the pan, stirring them into the onions. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the potatoes to begin browning and absorbing the flavors of the onions. Be sure to stir occasionally to ensure the potatoes brown evenly on all sides.

Step 5: Add Sauerkraut and Caraway Seeds
Next, stir in the drained sauerkraut and caraway seeds (if using). Caraway seeds bring a traditional flavor to the dish, enhancing the sauerkraut’s tangy notes with a slightly nutty and aromatic taste. If you prefer a more straightforward flavor, you can omit the seeds. Stir everything together until the ingredients are well combined.

Step 6: Return the Sausage and Add Broth
Return the browned sausage to the pan and pour in the beef broth. The broth adds moisture and helps the potatoes cook through while also blending the flavors of the sauerkraut and sausage. Lower the heat, cover the pan, and let the dish simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once the potatoes are fully cooked, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve the dish hot, straight from the pan, and enjoy the warm, comforting combination of smoky sausage, tangy sauerkraut, and tender potatoes

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip:
For added depth of flavor, consider deglazing the pan after browning the sausage by adding a splash of white wine or apple cider. This will lift any caramelized bits from the bottom of the pan, infusing the dish with a subtle sweetness and enhancing the overall richness. If you prefer a creamier dish, you can also stir in a dollop of sour cream or mustard just before serving, adding a layer of tangy richness that complements the sauerkraut.

Additionally, this dish can easily be made ahead of time and reheated, making it a great option for meal prep. The flavors only get better as they sit, so it’s an ideal dish to prepare in advance and enjoy later.

Conclusion:
Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut, and Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food—simple, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. The smoky, savory sausage pairs perfectly with the tangy sauerkraut and hearty potatoes, creating a dish that feels both nostalgic and comforting. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out, perfect for those chilly nights or when you need a dish that’s filling and flavorful.

With its ease of preparation and the use of everyday ingredients, this recipe is a fantastic option for busy weeknights, but it’s also special enough to serve to guests. Whether you’re familiar with these classic flavors or trying them for the first time, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a traditional, rustic meal that brings comfort with every bite