Crockpot Sausage & Kraut
A hearty, smoky slow‑cooked sausage and kraut dish brimming with savory sausage, sweet carrots, and tangy kraut—perfect for a cozy family dinner or a comforting potluck.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the sausage, carrots, and onion in a skillet until lightly browned.
- Transfer the browned mixture to a crockpot and add the washed and drained deli kraut.
- Cover and cook on medium heat for 4 to 6 hours, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using kielbasa or bratwurst instead of regular smoked sausage. If you're short on time, you can skip browning the ingredients; just layer everything in the crockpot. To balance the acidity of the kraut, a tablespoon of brown sugar can be added. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can also enhance the dish. For a heartier meal, serve with crusty bread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with a side of mashed potatoes or buttered noodles for a comforting meal. A simple green salad can provide a refreshing contrast. It pairs beautifully with American recipes like Meat Loaf With Vegetable Stuffing, making it a great option for a family dinner or potluck.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm in a saucepan over low heat until heated through, or microwave in a covered dish, stirring occasionally. This dish also freezes well; just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crockpot Sausage & Kraut contains roughly 215 calories, with 5g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (95% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh sauerkraut instead of deli kraut?
Yes, you can use fresh sauerkraut, but make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture. Fresh sauerkraut tends to be more tangy, so adjust the seasoning accordingly. You might also want to reduce the cooking time slightly if using fresh.
What can I substitute for smoked sausage?
If you prefer a different protein, turkey sausage or chicken sausage can be used as lighter alternatives. For a vegetarian option, consider using smoked tempeh or seitan, which can provide a similar texture and flavor.
Is it possible to add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! You can add potatoes, bell peppers, or even cabbage for additional flavor and texture. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as denser vegetables may need to be cut smaller or pre-cooked slightly to ensure everything is tender by the end.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).