Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This crockpot meal is simple, filling, and incredibly convenient.
The combination of Polish sausage and sauerkraut creates a classic sweet-and-tangy flavor, while the potatoes absorb the savory juices as they cook. Caraway seeds add a subtle earthy flavor that pairs especially well with sauerkraut.
Best of all, there’s very little preparation involved. Simply layer the ingredients in the slow cooker, add the broth and seasonings, cover, and let the crockpot take care of the rest.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gold Potatoes
Medium gold potatoes work particularly well because they have a creamy texture and hold their shape nicely during cooking. Cut them into large chunks so they don’t become overly soft.
Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut provides the signature tangy flavor in this dish. Use your favorite variety, whether it’s homemade or store-bought.
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can drain the sauerkraut before adding it to the slow cooker.
Polish Sausage
Use about 1 ½ pounds of Polish sausage, cut into large pieces. Kielbasa-style sausage works especially well and adds plenty of savory, smoky flavor to the dish.
Chicken Broth
A small amount of chicken broth provides moisture and helps create flavorful cooking juices without making the dish too watery.
Caraway Seeds
Caraway seeds add a distinctive earthy, slightly sweet flavor that complements sauerkraut beautifully. They are a classic pairing for this type of dish.
Bay Leaf
One bay leaf adds another layer of subtle flavor while everything cooks together.
Salt and Pepper
Season to taste. Keep in mind that both the sausage and sauerkraut can already contain a fair amount of salt, so it’s best to start with a small amount and adjust at the end.
How to Make Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut and Potatoes in the Crockpot
Step 1: Add the Sauerkraut
Place the sauerkraut in the bottom of your crockpot and spread it into an even layer.
Step 2: Add the Potatoes and Sausage
Place the large chunks of potatoes over the sauerkraut.
Add the pieces of Polish sausage on top of the potatoes. Layering the ingredients this way allows the flavors to mingle as they cook.
Step 3: Prepare the Cooking Liquid
In a small bowl, combine the chicken broth, caraway seeds, and bay leaf.
Pour the mixture evenly over the sausage, potatoes, and sauerkraut.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on high for approximately 4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the sausage is heated through.
Cooking times can vary depending on the size of the potato pieces and the slow cooker being used.
Step 5: Mix and Serve
Once everything is cooked, carefully remove the bay leaf.
Gently mix the ingredients together before serving, making sure some of the flavorful sauerkraut and cooking juices coat the potatoes and sausage.
Serve hot and enjoy.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Polish Sausage
Cut the Potatoes Into Large Chunks
Large pieces hold their shape better during the cooking process. Smaller pieces can become too soft after several hours.
Don’t Add Too Much Liquid
Sauerkraut releases moisture as it cooks, so you only need a modest amount of broth. Adding too much can make the finished dish watery.
Adjust the Sauerkraut Flavor
If you love a strong tangy flavor, use the sauerkraut as-is. For a milder dish, drain it before adding it to the crockpot.
Be Careful With Salt
Sauerkraut and Polish sausage can both be salty. Taste the finished dish before adding additional salt.
Don’t Forget the Bay Leaf
Remember to remove the bay leaf before serving. It adds flavor during cooking but should not be eaten.
What Kind of Sausage Should I Use?
Kielbasa or another smoked Polish sausage is an excellent choice for this recipe.
The sausage adds a savory, smoky flavor that works beautifully with the tanginess of sauerkraut and the creamy texture of potatoes.
You can use your favorite Polish sausage as long as it is suitable for slow cooking.
Can I Use Different Potatoes?
Yes. Gold potatoes are recommended because they have a creamy texture and tend to hold their shape well.
However, you can also use red potatoes or russet potatoes. Keep in mind that russet potatoes are softer and may break apart more easily during cooking.
Can I Make This Recipe on Low?
Yes. While this version is written for cooking on high for about 4 hours, you can cook it on low for a longer period.
The exact cooking time will depend on your slow cooker and the size of your potato pieces. The potatoes should be tender before serving.
What to Serve With Polish Sausage and Sauerkraut
This crockpot meal is hearty enough to serve on its own, but you can also pair it with a simple side dish.
Fresh crusty bread is excellent for soaking up the flavorful cooking juices. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables can also provide a fresh contrast to the rich sausage and potatoes.
For a traditional-style meal, serve the sausage, potatoes, and sauerkraut together in generous portions.
How to Store Leftovers
Allow leftovers to cool before transferring them to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator and enjoy within a few days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or gently warm them in a saucepan until heated through.
The flavors can become even more developed after resting, making leftovers just as satisfying the next day.
Can I Freeze This Recipe?
You can freeze leftovers, although the texture of the potatoes may change slightly after freezing and thawing.
For the best texture, refrigerating leftovers is generally preferred. If you do freeze the dish, store it in an airtight freezer-safe container and thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to brown the sausage first?
No. One of the advantages of this recipe is that you can add the sausage directly to the crockpot. Browning it first can add extra flavor, but it isn’t necessary.
Should I rinse the sauerkraut?
It’s completely optional. If you enjoy a strong tangy flavor, you can use it directly from the package. If you prefer a milder taste, drain or lightly rinse it before adding it to the crockpot.
Why are my potatoes still firm?
Cooking time can vary between slow cookers. Potato size also makes a difference. Make sure the pieces are cut into reasonably sized chunks and continue cooking until they are fork-tender.
Can I add onions?
Absolutely. Sliced onions are a delicious addition and pair naturally with Polish sausage and sauerkraut.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The basic ingredients can be gluten-free, but sausage and broth brands can vary. Always check the product labels if you need to avoid gluten.
A Simple Comfort Food Dinner
This Crockpot Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut and Potatoes recipe is proof that a satisfying homemade dinner doesn’t need to be complicated.
With tender potatoes, flavorful Polish sausage, tangy sauerkraut, and simple seasonings, every bite is packed with comforting flavor. The slow cooker makes the entire process incredibly easy, making this a great choice for busy families and anyone who loves hearty one-pot meals.
Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a cozy weekend meal, or a family gathering, this classic combination is sure to satisfy.
Final Thoughts
Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut and Potatoes is a simple, hearty crockpot meal that brings together some of the best comfort-food flavors in one dish.
The sausage adds smoky richness, the sauerkraut brings a delicious tangy contrast, and the potatoes soak up the savory cooking juices until they’re perfectly tender.
With only about 10 minutes of prep, this is the kind of recipe you can put together quickly and let your slow cooker handle the rest. It’s easy, filling, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting homemade dinner.