Are you looking for a flavorful and easy meal idea that combines the tanginess of sauerkraut with the richness of kielbasa? You’re in luck! Kielbasa, a type of Polish sausage, pairs perfectly with the fermented goodness of sauerkraut. The result is a savory combination that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering kielbasa and sauerkraut recipes that will take your taste buds on a journey across Eastern Europe. From hearty casseroles to skillet suppers, these recipes showcase the versatility of kielbasa and sauerkraut. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or innovative and adventurous, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s dive into our collection of kielbasa and sauerkraut recipes and get cooking!
Slow Cooker Kielbasa and Sauerkraut with Apples
This recipe combines the savory flavors of kielbasa sausage, tangy sauerkraut, and sweet apples in a slow cooker. Perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening, this dish is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb kielbasa sausage
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 large apple, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the sliced onion at the bottom of a slow cooker.
2. Add the kielbasa sausage on top of the onions.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the sauerkraut, apple slices, brown sugar, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the sauerkraut mixture over the kielbasa.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. 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 Mustard Sauce
A hearty, flavorful skillet dish that combines the savory taste of kielbasa sausage with tangy sauerkraut and a creamy mustard sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon brown mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add kielbasa sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to skillet; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in sauerkraut, Dijon mustard, and brown mustard. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the flavors meld together.
5. Return kielbasa sausage to skillet and stir to combine with sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Polish Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Pierogi Bake
Polish Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Pierogi Bake: A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the flavors of Eastern Europe with a rich, buttery crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pierogi (cheese-filled or kielbasa-flavored)
– 1 pound of kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 1 cup of sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup of butter, softened
– 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the pierogi according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the sliced kielbasa and chopped sauerkraut until the sausage is browned and the sauerkraut is tender.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the softened butter, flour, salt, and pepper to form a crumbly mixture.
5. Arrange half of the cooked pierogi in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the kielbasa and sauerkraut mixture, followed by the remaining pierogi.
6. Sprinkle the butter-flour mixture evenly over the top of the pierogi.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Kielbasa Sauerkraut and Potato Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of kielbasa sausage, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy potatoes for a satisfying side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the kielbasa sausage over medium-high heat until browned.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
4. In a separate pot, boil the sliced potatoes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine the cooked kielbasa mixture, sauerkraut, and potato slices.
6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and dot with milk.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Grilled Kielbasa with Caramelized Sauerkraut
Elevate your grilled meats game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe, pairing the savory goodness of kielbasa with sweet and tangy caramelized sauerkraut.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound kielbasa sausage
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill kielbasa for 5-7 minutes per side, or until lightly charred and cooked through.
3. While the sausage is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
4. Add sauerkraut, brown sugar, caraway seeds (if using), salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauerkraut is caramelized and golden brown.
6. Serve grilled kielbasa with caramelized sauerkraut alongside.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Stuffed Peppers
Transform humble bell peppers into a savory and satisfying main dish with this hearty recipe. Satisfy your taste buds with the perfect balance of spicy sausage, tangy sauerkraut, and sweet peppers.
Ingredients:
• 4 large bell peppers (any color), seeded
• 1 lb Kielbasa sausage, sliced
• 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp caraway seeds
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers, removing any seeds or membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the sauerkraut, garlic, and caraway seeds to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Stuff each pepper with the sausage mixture, filling them as full as possible.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
8. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes
Beer-Braised Kielbasa and Sauerkraut
This hearty recipe combines the rich flavors of beer-braising with the tangy punch of sauerkraut, perfect for a cozy dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb kielbasa sausage
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup beer (any style)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. Slice the kielbasa into thick rounds and place in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot.
3. Add sauerkraut, beer, brown sugar, vinegar, and caraway seeds. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Cover the pot and braise for 2-1/2 hours, or until the kielbasa is tender and the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Kielbasa Sauerkraut and Onion Pizza
This hearty pizza combines the flavors of Eastern Europe with the comfort of a classic pie. The sweetness of caramelized onions, the tanginess of sauerkraut, and the spiciness of kielbasa sausage come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained
– 1/4 cup caramelized onions (see note)
– 6 oz kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread sauerkraut over the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Top with caramelized onions, kielbasa sausage, and mozzarella cheese.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Note: To caramelize onions, cook 1 large onion in a pan over medium heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until dark brown and sweet.
Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Soup with Rye Croutons
Warm up with this hearty, comforting soup that combines the flavors of Eastern European cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup rye flour
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions and garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add the sliced Kielbasa and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chicken broth, sauerkraut, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, mix the rye flour with a pinch of salt. Gradually add melted butter, stirring until a crumbly mixture forms.
5. Serve the soup hot, topped with croutons and chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Kielbasa Sauerkraut and Cheese Pierogi
These savory pierogi are filled with the comforting combination of kielbasa sausage, tangy sauerkraut, and melted cheese. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as an appetizer to share.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pierogi dough
– 1/2 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pierogi dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine sliced kielbasa sausage, sauerkraut, and shredded cheese.
4. Place a tablespoon of the filling in the center of each dough circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, and press edges together to seal.
6. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook pierogi for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Transfer cooked pierogi to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until crispy.
8. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pan Kielbasa Sauerkraut and Roasted Potatoes
This hearty one-pan recipe combines the flavors of kielbasa sausage, tangy sauerkraut, and roasted potatoes in a simple and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb kielbasa sausage
– 2 large Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
3. Add the kielbasa sausage and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. Add the sliced onion to the pan and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the cubed potatoes, garlic, sauerkraut, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir to combine.
6. Return the kielbasa sausage to the pan and stir to coat with the potato and sauerkraut mixture.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Reuben Sandwich
A twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, this Kielbasa and Sauerkraut version adds a tangy and savory element to the traditional corned beef. The spicy kick from the sausage is perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Kielbasa sausage
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained
– 4 slices rye bread
– 2 tablespoons butter, divided
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
– Swiss cheese, shredded (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a griddle or skillet over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each slice of rye bread.
3. Cook the Kielbasa sausage for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until browned and crispy.
4. Meanwhile, caramelize the onions by cooking them in butter for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading a layer of sauerkraut on the unbuttered side of two slices of bread, followed by a slice of Kielbasa, some caramelized onions, and a sprinkle of caraway seeds. Top with Swiss cheese if desired.
6. Place the sandwiches on the preheated griddle or skillet, butter-side down, and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kielbasa Sauerkraut and Bacon Skillet
This savory skillet dish combines the flavors of smoky kielbasa, tangy sauerkraut, and crispy bacon for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove from pan and set aside.
2. Add the sliced kielbasa to the same pan and cook for 3-4 minutes or until browned.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and sauerkraut to the pan. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Return the cooked bacon to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Pierogi Casserole
A hearty twist on traditional pierogi, this casserole combines the flavors of Eastern Europe with a comforting, one-dish wonder. Perfect for a cold winter’s night or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pierogi (cheese-filled or meat-filled, your choice)
– 1 pound of kielbasa, sliced
– 1 cup of sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of caraway seeds
– 1/2 cup of sour cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon of butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook pierogi according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook kielbasa until browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened.
5. Stir in sauerkraut, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper.
6. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, create a layer of pierogi, followed by kielbasa mixture, then repeat.
7. Top with sour cream and dot with butter.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Kielbasa Sauerkraut and Mushroom Pasta
Kielbasa Sauerkraut and Mushroom Pasta Recipe
This hearty pasta dish combines the savory flavors of Kielbasa sausage, tangy sauerkraut, and earthy mushrooms for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 1 lb Kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add Kielbasa sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in sauerkraut and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the Kielbasa-mushroom mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
This recipe combines the savory flavors of kielbasa sausage, tangy sauerkraut, and tender cabbage leaves to create a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage
– 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– Water for boiling
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of water to boil. Remove the outer leaves from the cabbage head and blanch in the boiling water until tender, about 10 minutes.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine kielbasa, sauerkraut, onion, garlic, caraway seeds, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Once the cabbage is cool enough to handle, remove the leaves from the head and lay flat on a surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the sausage mixture onto the center of each leaf, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Roll the cabbage leaves tightly, tucking in the sides as you go. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
5. Place the rolled cabbage in a single layer in a baking dish and add cooked white rice to cover.
6. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: About 45-60 minutes
Kielbasa Sauerkraut and Swiss Cheese Quiche
A hearty breakfast or brunch recipe that combines the flavors of Germany, Poland, and Switzerland. This quiche is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weekend morning.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust
– 6 slices of kielbasa sausage, diced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 4 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a skillet, cook the kielbasa sausage until browned, then set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the chopped sauerkraut and cook until heated through.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, salt, and pepper.
6. Arrange the cooked kielbasa, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese in the pie crust.
7. Pour the egg mixture over the filling and smooth out.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Breakfast Hash
Start your day with a hearty and flavorful breakfast hash that combines the savory flavors of kielbasa, sauerkraut, and potatoes. This recipe is perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 2 cups Sauerkraut, drained
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the kielbasa sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the diced potatoes to the same skillet and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and tender.
5. Stir in the sauerkraut and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
6. Return the kielbasa sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the potato and sauerkraut mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover 18 mouthwatering recipes that combine the savory flavors of kielbasa sausage with tangy sauerkraut. From hearty casseroles and skillet meals to creative twists on traditional dishes, these recipes are sure to delight. Try making a Slow Cooker Kielbasa and Sauerkraut with Apples for a sweet and savory twist, or go classic with a Polish Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Pierogi Bake. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or something new and exciting, there’s something on this list for everyone to enjoy.
