Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut and Potatoes (Crockpot)

SAVE THIS!

Introduction

This classic one-pot slow cooker meal brings together smoky Polish sausage, tangy sauerkraut, and tender potatoes for the ultimate comfort dish. With minimal prep and all-day simmering, the flavors melt into each other beautifully, giving you a warm, rustic meal perfect for busy days or cold nights.

Ingredients & Quantities

Main Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs (700 g) Polish sausage (kielbasa), sliced into rounds
• 1 can (32 oz / 900 g) sauerkraut, drained (rinsed lightly if you prefer mild flavor)
• 4–5 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp butter (optional, for richness)
• 1 tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika (optional)
• 1–2 bay leaves

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables
   Add the potato chunks and sliced onion to the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Layer the Sauerkraut
   Spread the sauerkraut evenly over the potatoes.
3. Add the Sausage
   Place the sliced kielbasa on top.
4. Season & Add Broth
   Sprinkle in pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and bay leaves. Pour chicken broth over the mixture. Add butter on top if using.
5. Slow Cook
   
   • Low: 6–8 hours
   • High: 3–4 hours
     Potatoes should be fork-tender and sausage juicy.
7. Serve Hot
   Stir gently, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.

Description

This dish is a beautiful balance of flavors: the smoky depth of kielbasa, the tangy brightness of sauerkraut, and the soft comfort of perfectly cooked potatoes. Everything stews slowly together, creating a meal with rich aroma and homestyle authenticity.

Origin & Cultural Significance

Kielbasa and sauerkraut are pillars of traditional Polish cuisine. Historically, these ingredients were easy to preserve through long winters, making them essential staples. Over time, adding potatoes created a humble and hearty family meal enjoyed across Eastern Europe. Today, this trio remains a beloved symbol of comfort, simplicity, and cultural heritage.

Optional Additions

• ½ tsp caraway seeds (classic sauerkraut spice)
• 1 apple, sliced (adds subtle sweetness)
• 1 tbsp brown sugar (balances tanginess)
• ½ cup sliced carrots
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• Add ½ lb mushrooms for earthy depth

Tips for Success

• Rinse sauerkraut lightly if you want a milder, less tangy flavor.
• Avoid over-stirring during cooking—potatoes may break apart.
• Brown the sausage briefly in a skillet for a deeper flavor (optional).
• Choose waxy potatoes (Yukon Gold) to prevent mushiness.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

• Calories: 380–450
• Protein: 18–22 g
• Carbs: 28–32 g
• Fat: 22–28 g
• Fiber: 4–6 g
• Sodium: Moderate to high (due to sauerkraut & sausage)

Conclusion

Simple, hearty, and deeply satisfying, this slow cooker meal is comfort food at its finest. With minimal effort, you get maximum flavor—a dish that warms the house and fills it with inviting aromas.

Recommendation

Serve with warm bread, mustard on the side, or a crisp green salad for contrast. Tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to develop.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

This dish proves that comfort food can still fit into a balanced lifestyle. Sauerkraut supports gut health, potatoes provide energy, and protein-rich sausage brings satiety. Pair with fresh greens or fermented vegetables to enhance digestion and nourish the body while still enjoying a rich, traditional meal.