Slow Cooker Kielbasa and Sauerkraut

This easy slow cooker kielbasa and sauerkraut recipe is a hearty, comforting dinner made with just five simple ingredients. A whole kielbasa ring slowly cooks with tangy sauerkraut, sweet onions, apple juice, and brown sugar, creating a delicious combination of smoky, savory, and slightly sweet flavors.

It is the perfect easy slow cooker dinner for busy weeknights, chilly evenings, family meals, or anyone looking for a simple kielbasa and sauerkraut recipe that requires very little hands-on preparation.

Ingredients

• 1 whole kielbasa ring, about 13–16 ounces
• 1 jar or bag sauerkraut, about 24 ounces, lightly drained
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup apple juice
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

How to Make Slow Cooker Kielbasa and Sauerkraut

1. Lightly drain the sauerkraut, keeping a little of its liquid. Spread half of the sauerkraut across the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Add half of the sliced onion over the sauerkraut.
3. Place the whole kielbasa ring on top.
4. Add the remaining sauerkraut and onions around and over the kielbasa.
5. Pour the apple juice evenly over the ingredients and sprinkle the brown sugar on top.
6. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the kielbasa is thoroughly heated and the onions and sauerkraut are tender.
7. Remove the kielbasa and slice it into serving-size pieces. Return the slices to the slow cooker or arrange them over the sauerkraut.
8. Spoon the sauerkraut and onions over the sausage and serve hot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: Just add the ingredients to the slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Only 5 ingredients: You don’t need a long grocery list for a satisfying family dinner.
• Big flavor: Smoky kielbasa pairs beautifully with tangy sauerkraut and sweet apple juice.
• Perfect for busy nights: The slow cooker makes this an excellent make-ahead meal.
• Budget-friendly: Simple ingredients make this a practical option for feeding a family.
• Comfort food favorite: Warm sauerkraut, tender sausage, and onions create a cozy old-fashioned dinner.
• Great for meal planning: Leftovers can be reheated easily for another meal.

Recipe Tips

Keep the kielbasa whole while cooking. Cooking the sausage as a whole ring helps retain moisture. Slice it after cooking for tender, juicy pieces.

Don’t completely drain the sauerkraut. Leaving a little liquid helps prevent the dish from becoming dry and adds extra tangy flavor.

Add sliced apples. For a sweeter variation, add one thinly sliced apple with the onions. Apples complement both the sauerkraut and kielbasa especially well.

Add potatoes. Small peeled potatoes can be placed around the kielbasa before cooking. They absorb the flavorful juices and turn this into a complete one-pot meal.

Adjust the sweetness. If you prefer a more savory flavor, reduce the brown sugar. For a slightly sweeter version, add another tablespoon.

What to Serve With Kielbasa and Sauerkraut

Serve this hearty slow cooker meal with:

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Boiled baby potatoes
• Roasted potatoes
• Rye bread
• Crusty dinner rolls
• Green beans
• Roasted carrots
• Fresh apple salad
• Coarse mustard

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover kielbasa and sauerkraut in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a covered skillet over medium-low heat until heated through.

For longer storage, the cooked kielbasa and sauerkraut can also be frozen in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.