Polish sausage, Sauerkraut and potatoes ( CROCKPOT )

Winter has clearly arrived, bringing with it a chill that seems to seep into your bones. With temperatures barely reaching five degrees Fahrenheit, it’s the perfect time to break out those trusty slow cooker recipes. One dish that never fails to warm the soul is Slow Cooker Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut, and Potatoes. This comforting recipe is a two-step wonder; you’ll need to add the sausage partway through cooking to prevent it from drying out. Imagine the delicious melding of chicken smoked sausage, hearty potatoes, sweet onions, vibrant carrots, and tangy sauerkraut, all simmering in a honey mustard-infused chicken broth. It’s the quintessential winter meal, packed with hearty, wholesome goodness.

Have you tried any of my other slow cooker recipes? Favorites among friends and family include Crock Pot Beef Stew for Two, Crock Pot Chuck Roast and Vegetables, and Crock Pot Pork and Noodles. For more inspiration, this Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Soup from Spend with Pennies is a must-try, as is the Slow Cooker Turkey Chili from Baking Beauty.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal hands-on time, yet it delivers maximum flavor. It’s perfect for busy days when you still want to come home to a warm, satisfying meal. Plus, the combination of sausage, sauerkraut, and potatoes is a classic that never goes out of style.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Slow cooker (Crockpot)
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Peeler

Ingredients

• 2 (14 ounce) cans sauerkraut, undrained (or 1 (2 pound) bag)
• 5 or 6 potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks
• 1 cup water
• 1 pound Polish sausage, cut into chunks (or smoked sausage)
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Place the sauerkraut and potatoes in the slow cooker.
2. Add the caraway seeds, bay leaf, and pepper.
3. Pour in the water.
4. Place the sausage chunks on top of the sauerkraut and potato mixture.
5. Cook on high for 4 hours or on low for about 6 hours, until the potatoes are tender.

Tips for Success

• To avoid overcooking the sausage, add it to the slow cooker after about three hours.
• For extra flavor, sear the sausage in a pan before adding it to the slow cooker.

Additional Tips or Variations

You can add sliced onions or carrots for more vegetables. If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This dish is rich in protein from the sausage and provides a good amount of fiber from the sauerkraut and potatoes. It’s also a great source of vitamin C.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use fresh sauerkraut? Yes, fresh sauerkraut can be used, but you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to three months.

Conclusion

I hope you’ll give this Slow Cooker Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut, and Potatoes a try. It’s a delightful, hearty meal that’s sure to become a winter favorite. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so please feel free to share your experiences and any variations you try!