Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut & Potatoes (Crockpot Style) – Hearty Comfort in One Pot 🍲🐖🫒🥔

There are meals that warm your body and meals that warm your soul — this Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut & Potatoes is both!

Made entirely in your slow cooker , this cozy dish layers smoked sausage , tangy sauerkraut , and earthy baby potatoes into a rich, savory stew that simmers low and slow until every bite is infused with deep Eastern European flavor.

It’s the kind of meal that smells like home as it cooks — filling your house with warmth and nostalgia. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd, prepping for leftovers, or just craving something rustic and satisfying, this crockpot recipe delivers bold taste without the fuss.

Let’s dive into how to make this ultimate comfort classic!

🧄 Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Dish

• One-pot wonder : Just toss everything in the crockpot and walk away.
• Deeply savory flavor : Smoky sausage meets sour kraut and soft potatoes.
• Perfect for cold nights : Rich, warming, and deeply satisfying.
• Great for meal prep : Tastes even better the next day!
• Budget-friendly : Uses simple, long-lasting ingredients.

🧾 Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

For the slow cooker base:

• 4–5 Polish smoked sausages (kielbasa works perfectly)
• 1 large onion , sliced or chopped
• 2 cloves garlic , minced (or ½ tsp garlic powder)
• 4 cups sauerkraut , drained (rinsed if too salty)
• 2 lbs baby potatoes , halved or quartered
• 1 cup chicken broth or water (to keep everything moist while cooking)
• 1 tsp caraway seeds or paprika (for authentic Polish flair)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tsp dried thyme or marjoram (optional for herb depth)

🔪 Equipment Needed

• 5–6 quart slow cooker
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring tools
• Spoon or ladle
• Tongs
• Aluminum foil (for resting meat if desired)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Chop the onion , peel and cut baby potatoes , and slice sausage into thick rounds .

If using jarred sauerkraut , drain well and rinse lightly if overly salty.

Step 2: Layer Everything in the Crockpot

In your slow cooker:

1. Start with a layer of onion and garlic at the bottom — this adds aromatic depth.
2. Add sliced kielbasa or Polish sausage on top.
3. Layer in sauerkraut and spread evenly.
4. Top with baby potatoes , seasoned with salt, pepper, caraway , and herbs.
5. Pour in chicken broth or water to prevent drying out during slow cooking.

Tip: Don’t stir after layering — let the flavors meld naturally during cooking.

Step 3: Slow Cook Until Tender

Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours .

The potatoes should be fork-tender, the sausage should be fully cooked, and the sauerkraut should be soft and infused with smoky richness.

Step 4: Stir & Rest (Optional)

After cooking, gently stir everything together so the juices blend throughout.

Let rest for 10–15 minutes before serving — this helps the flavors settle and makes slicing easier if needed.

Step 5: Serve Warm & Hearty

Serve warm in bowls or over mashed potatoes for extra comfort.

Pair with crusty bread and mustard for a truly authentic experience.

Each spoonful is packed with meatiness, tang, and tender potato bites — pure comfort in every bite!

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• With a side of mustard, pickles, or horseradish for bold contrast.
• Try it with a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche on top.
• Stack on a plate with roasted carrots or green beans for balance.
• Pair with rye bread or pretzel rolls for true Polish vibes.
• Perfect alongside a cold beer or spiced tea for cozy evenings.

🥡 Storage & Reheating Tips

• Refrigerator: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days .
• Freezer: Freeze portions in ziplock bags for up to 3 months . Thaw and reheat when ready.
• Make Ahead: Prep ingredients the night before and refrigerate — add to slow cooker in the morning.
• Reheating: Warm in oven at 300°F (150°C) or microwave with a splash of broth to restore moisture.

✅ Expert Tips for Success

• Use fully cooked smoked sausage — no need to brown first, but optional for deeper flavor.
• Don’t skip caraway seeds — they give that classic Polish aroma and taste.
• Want extra richness? Add a splash of heavy cream or butter before serving.
• Swap sauerkraut with kimchi for a spicy Korean twist.
• Make it vegetarian : Replace sausage with smoked tofu and use vegetable broth.

🧠 Nutritional Highlights

While indulgent, this dish offers solid nutrition:

• Polish sausage delivers iron and protein for energy support.
• Sauerkraut boosts gut health with probiotics and fiber .
• Potatoes offer complex carbs and potassium .
• Enjoy as part of a balanced lifestyle — especially with greens or yogurt-based dips.

📝 Final Thoughts

This Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut & Potatoes Crockpot Recipe proves that some of the best meals come from letting time do the work. With its rich, smoky flavor , tangy cabbage notes , and creamy potato finish , it brings bold comfort and cultural charm straight to your table — without any complicated steps.

Whether you’re new to Polish cuisine, feeding a hungry family, or simply craving something warm and satisfying, this recipe delivers big on flavor and heartiness.

So plug in your slow cooker, layer in the love, and get ready to fall in love with every spoonful of this delicious, hands-off comfort dish!