The Ultimate Crockpot Sauerkraut Sausage and Potatoes Recipe: A Delicious, Easy, and Hearty Meal

Welcome to my West Virginia Kitchen!  If you're looking for a comforting and easy-to-cook meal that will please the whole family, look no further than this Crockpot Sauerkraut Sausage and Potato Recipe.  

 Packed with savory flavors and requiring minimal effort, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.  Let's dive into how you can create this hearty meal with just a few simple ingredients and your trusty slow cooker.  I can't wait to share it with you so...

Let's Get Started!

WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE:

•  Easy Preparation:  With minimal prep work and the convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe is perfect for busy days when you don't have time to spend in the kitchen.
• Flavorful and Hearty:  The combination of smoked sausage, sauerkraut, and potatoes creates a deliciously savory and satisfying meal that will keep you coming back for more.  
• Versatile:  This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.  Whether you like it spicy, mild, or loaded with vegetables, there's version for everyone! 

INGREDIENTS:

To make this mouthwatering Crockpot Sauerkraut Sausage and Potato Recipe you'll need the following ingredients.  

2 14 oz packages of Kielbasa, cut into 1 inch pieces

32 oz Sauerkraut

1 onion, sliced

5-6 Yukon Gold Potatoes

1 cup Chicken Broth

2 Tbsp Brown Sugar or Apple Juice

1 Tbsp Dijon Mustard

1 tsp Caraway Seed

1 tsp Garlic Powder

2 bay Leaves

Salt and Pepper to taste

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Prepare Your Ingredients:  Begin by slicing the smoked sausage into bite-sized pieces.  Thinly slice the onion, and wash the potatoes. Rinse and drain the sauerkraut to reduce the acidity. 
2. Layer the Ingredients:  In your Crockpot, start by adding a layer of sliced onions.  Next, add the drained and rinsed sauerkraut on top of the onions.  Add the potatoes and sliced smoked sausage.  
3. Pour in the Broth:  In a small mixing bowl whisk together the chicken broth, brown sugar, dijon mustard, caraway seed, and garlic powder.  Add the bay leaves to the crockpot as well. 
4. Cook Low and Slow:  Set your crockpot to LOW and cook for 6-8 hours.  Alternatively, you can cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours if you're short on time.  The longer cooking time will allow the flavors to fully develop and the sausage to become tender and juicy.  
5. Serve and Enjoy:  Once the cooking time is up, give everything a good stir.  Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.  Garnish with fresh parley if desired, and serve hot.  This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a simple green salad.  

TIPS FOR THE BEST CROCKPOT SAUERKRAUT SAUSAGE AND POTATO RECIPE:

• Choose Quality Sausage:  Opt for a high-quality smoked sausage for the best flavor.  You can also experiment with different types of sausage, such as kielbasa or bratwurst, to find your favorite combination.  
• Adjust the Acidity:  If you prefer a milder sauerkraut, make sure to rinse and drain it thoroughly.  For a tangier dish, you can reduce the rinsing or even add a bit of apple cider vinegar to the mix.  
• Add Vegetables:  For a more balanced meal, consider adding some vegetables like carrots or bell peppers.  Simply chop them up and layer then in with your other ingredients.  
• Make it Spicy:  If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the recipe.  

This Crockpot Sausage and Sauerkraut Recipe is a true comfort food classic.  It's easy to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for any time of the year.  Whether you're feeding a crowd or just looking for a simple weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.  Give it a try, and enjoy the tastes of homemade goodness! 

And as always...

Happy Eatin' Y'all!

~The Kitchen Wife~