Are you a comfort food lover looking for new ways to incorporate sauerkraut and kielbasa into your meals? Look no further! These two ingredients are a match made in heaven, and when combined with other flavorful elements, can create dishes that are both hearty and delicious. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 savory recipes that feature sauerkraut and kielbasa as the stars of the show.
From slow-cooked stews to one-pot pasta dishes, and from breakfast scrambles to dinner casseroles, these recipes showcase the versatility of sauerkraut and kielbasa. Whether you’re a fan of classic combinations or looking to mix things up, we’ve got something for everyone. So go ahead, get cozy, and let’s dive into our favorite sauerkraut and kielbasa recipes!
Slow-Cooked Sauerkraut and Kielbasa Stew
A hearty, comforting stew that combines the tangy flavor of sauerkraut with the savory taste of kielbasa. This slow-cooked recipe is perfect for a chilly day or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound kielbasa, sliced
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven or slow cooker, combine kielbasa, sauerkraut, onion, garlic, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and caraway seeds.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Skillet with Apples
A hearty one-pot dish that combines the flavors of Polish sausage, tangy sauerkraut, and sweet apples. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
– 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in the sauerkraut and diced apples.
5. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the apples are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Kielbasa with Caramelized Sauerkraut
Grilled Kielbasa with Caramelized Sauerkraut Recipe
Summary: Elevate your outdoor cooking game by pairing smoky grilled kielbasa with sweet and tangy caramelized sauerkraut. This flavorful combination is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound kielbasa sausage
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for grilling
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill kielbasa for 5-7 minutes per side, or until browned and crispy.
3. In a large skillet, combine sauerkraut, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauerkraut is caramelized and darkened in color (about 20-25 minutes).
5. Serve grilled kielbasa with warm caramelized sauerkraut.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sauerkraut and Kielbasa Soup with Potatoes
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines the tanginess of sauerkraut, the smokiness of kielbasa, and the creaminess of potatoes. Perfect for a chilly day or as a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound kielbasa, sliced
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine kielbasa, sauerkraut, potatoes, chicken broth, onion, and garlic.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Baked Sauerkraut and Kielbasa Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the tangy flavor of sauerkraut with the savory taste of kielbasa, all wrapped up in a comforting blanket of melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook kielbasa sausage over medium-high heat until browned.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in sauerkraut and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, followed by breadcrumbs and caraway seeds.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Kielbasa Reuben Sandwiches with Sauerkraut
Experience the flavors of Germany and Eastern Europe combined in this hearty sandwich recipe, featuring kielbasa sausage, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing on rye bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 4 slices rye bread
– 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained
– 2 tablespoons Thousand Island dressing
– 2 slices Swiss cheese
– Lettuce leaves and pickle slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a griddle or skillet over medium heat.
2. Grill the sliced kielbasa until browned and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Meanwhile, toast the rye bread slices on the griddle.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading Thousand Island dressing on each toasted slice of bread, followed by a few slices of grilled kielbasa, some sauerkraut, and a slice of Swiss cheese.
5. Top with lettuce leaves and pickle slices, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
One-Pot Sauerkraut and Kielbasa Pasta
This hearty pasta dish combines the tangy flavor of sauerkraut with the savory taste of kielbasa sausage, all in one convenient pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté onion and garlic in a little oil until softened.
3. Add kielbasa sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in sauerkraut, diced tomatoes, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper.
5. Add cooked pasta to the pot, tossing with sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sauerkraut and Kielbasa Pierogi Bake
A hearty and flavorful twist on traditional pierogi, this recipe combines the tanginess of sauerkraut with the savory goodness of kielbasa.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen pierogi (cheese or potato-filled)
– 1 pound of kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 1 cup of sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of caraway seeds
– 1/4 cup of butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pierogi according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook kielbasa sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until onions are translucent.
5. Stir in sauerkraut, caraway seeds, and butter until well combined.
6. Add cooked pierogi to the skillet and stir until coated with the sauerkraut mixture.
7. Transfer the pierogi mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Kielbasa Hash with Sauerkraut and Fried Eggs
A hearty breakfast or brunch option that combines the savory flavors of kielbasa, sauerkraut, and fried eggs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb kielbasa sausage
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 4 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Slice the kielbasa into 1-inch pieces and add to the skillet. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the kielbasa from the skillet and set aside. Leave any remaining drippings in the pan.
4. Add the chopped sauerkraut to the skillet and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 10 minutes.
5. Crack an egg into a small bowl and whisk lightly. Pour the egg mixture over the sauerkraut in the skillet.
6. Cook the egg until the whites are set and the yolks are cooked to your desired doneness, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. Serve the kielbasa hash with a fried egg on top. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sauerkraut and Kielbasa Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the flavors of tangy sauerkraut, savory kielbasa, and sweet bell peppers for a delicious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a cozy night in or a hearty snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook kielbasa over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add sauerkraut and stir until heated through.
5. Stuff each pepper with the kielbasa-sauerkraut mixture, followed by shredded cheese.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Pizza with Caraway Crust
This hearty pizza combines the savory flavors of kielbasa, tangy sauerkraut, and caraway-spiced crust for a unique and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 2 tbsp caraway seeds
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 8 oz kielbasa, sliced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Mix caraway seeds with olive oil and brush crust evenly.
4. Top crust with sliced onion, kielbasa, and sauerkraut.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Creamy Sauerkraut and Kielbasa Dip
A tangy and savory twist on traditional dip flavors, this creamy sauerkraut and kielbasa dip is perfect for snacking or serving at gatherings. With its unique combination of fermented cabbage and smoky sausage, it’s sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
– 8 oz kielbasa, sliced
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together sauerkraut, kielbasa, cream cheese, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
5. Serve warm with crackers, chips, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Pancakes
Elevate your breakfast game with these savory pancakes, packed with the rich flavors of kielbasa and sauerkraut. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1/2 cup chopped kielbasa
– 1/4 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped kielbasa and sauerkraut.
6. Drop by 1/4 cupfuls onto the preheated skillet or griddle.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
8. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sauerkraut and Kielbasa Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
A hearty and flavorful twist on traditional cabbage rolls, this recipe combines the tanginess of sauerkraut with the savory goodness of kielbasa sausage.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage
– 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Remove the tough outer leaves from the cabbage head, then blanch it in boiling water for 5 minutes.
3. Cut out the center of each leaf, creating a flat sheet.
4. In a bowl, mix together sauerkraut, cooked rice, and sliced kielbasa.
5. Place about 1/4 cup of the filling onto the center of each cabbage leaf, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Roll up the cabbage leaves tightly, securing with toothpicks if needed.
7. Place the rolls seam-side down in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Flatbread
Elevate your snack game with this simple yet flavorful flatbread recipe, combining the tanginess of sauerkraut with the savory goodness of kielbasa.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of flatbread (such as naan or pita)
– 8 oz kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: caramelized onions, mustard, pickles
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the kielbasa into thin strips.
3. Place the flatbread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the bread, then top with sauerkraut and kielbasa slices.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted (if using).
7. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sauerkraut and Kielbasa Breakfast Scramble
Start your day with a flavorful twist on traditional breakfast scramble, featuring tangy sauerkraut and savory kielbasa.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked scrambled eggs
– 1/2 cup diced kielbasa sausage
– 1/4 cup chopped sauerkraut
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Chopped onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the diced kielbasa sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Push the kielbasa to one side of the pan; crack in the scrambled eggs and scramble them with a spatula until they’re cooked through.
4. Combine the eggs and kielbasa, stirring to mix well.
5. Add the chopped sauerkraut and stir-fry for about 2 minutes, until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Fried Rice
A twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines the savory flavors of kielbasa sausage and tangy sauerkraut for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup diced kielbasa sausage
– 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the kielbasa sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Add the sauerkraut and cooked kielbasa sausage back into the pan. Stir-fry everything together for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Sauerkraut and Kielbasa Chili
This hearty chili recipe combines the tanginess of sauerkraut with the smokiness of kielbasa, all in a comforting slow cooker dish perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine sausage, diced tomatoes, sauerkraut, onion, garlic, caraway seeds, and paprika.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Add red kidney beans during the last hour of cooking.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Hand Pies
Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Hand Pies: A Twist on Traditional Comfort Food
These savory hand pies combine the flavors of kielbasa sausage, tangy sauerkraut, and melted cheese in a convenient and delicious package.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together kielbasa sausage and sauerkraut.
4. Spoon the sausage-kraut mixture onto one half of the pie crust, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the filling.
6. Fold the other half of the pie crust over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sauerkraut and Kielbasa Potato Bake
This hearty potato bake combines the tangy flavor of sauerkraut with the spicy kick of kielbasa for a satisfying comfort food dish.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 1/2 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the potato slices, sauerkraut, kielbasa, and butter. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Top with grated cheese.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get cozy with these 20 savory sauerkraut and kielbasa recipes that will warm your heart and fill your belly! From hearty stews to flavorful flatbreads, these comforting dishes showcase the perfect pairing of tangy sauerkraut and juicy kielbasa. Whether you’re in the mood for a satisfying soup or a decadent breakfast scramble, there’s something on this list for everyone.
