Description
Apple and Sauerkraut Skillet
Ingredients:
1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
2 cups sauerkraut, drained
1 medium onion, sliced
1 apple, diced
1 tbsp butter
1 tsp brown sugar
Instructions:
Melt butter in a skillet. Add sausage and brown.
Stir in onion and apple, cooking until caramelized.
Add sauerkraut and brown sugar. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Serve warm with a side of rye bread.
Sweet and tangy with a touch of apple!
#AppleSauerkrautSkillet
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect skillet meal. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped: slice the smoked sausage, slice the onion, dice the apple, and drain the sauerkraut. Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the butter and let it melt, coating the pan. Add the sliced sausage in a single layer and cook for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until nicely browned on all sides. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
In the same skillet with the rendered fat and butter, add the sliced onion and diced apple. Reduce the heat to medium. Cook, stirring frequently, for 6-8 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent and the apples have begun to caramelize. This step builds the foundational sweet and savory flavor.
Return the browned sausage to the skillet. Add the drained sauerkraut and the teaspoon of brown sugar. Stir everything thoroughly to combine, ensuring the sugar dissolves and the sauerkraut is evenly distributed. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer gently for 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty skillet dish is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with several sides. For a classic pairing, serve it with thick slices of dark rye or pumpernickel bread to soak up the flavorful juices. It also makes an excellent topping for creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles. For a lighter option, a simple side salad with a sharp vinaigrette helps cut through the richness.
How-to Summary
Quick summary: Brown sausage in butter, remove. Caramelize onion and apple in the same pan. Add back sausage with sauerkraut and brown sugar. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Serve warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of sausage? Absolutely. Kielbasa, bratwurst, or even a chicken or turkey sausage work well. Adjust browning time based on the sausage’s pre-cooked status.
How do I properly drain sauerkraut? Use a colander and press down with a spoon or squeeze handfuls to remove excess liquid. For a milder taste, you can also give it a quick rinse under cold water before draining.
What apple variety is best? Use a firm, slightly sweet apple that holds its shape, like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Braeburn. Granny Smith apples add a more pronounced tartness.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, it reheats very well. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly? It can be frozen, though the sauerkraut and apple may become softer upon thawing. Cool completely, freeze for up to 2 months, and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best results: Do not skip draining the sauerkraut, as excess liquid will make the dish watery. Do not rush the onion and apple cooking step; proper caramelization is key for depth of flavor. Do not use high heat when simmering the final mixture, as this can cause the ingredients at the bottom to burn. Finally, do not overcook the apples at the beginning; they should be tender but still hold some texture.
Conclusion
This Apple and Sauerkraut Skillet is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a deeply satisfying and flavorful meal. The combination of savory smoked sausage, tangy sauerkraut, and sweet caramelized apples and onions is both comforting and surprisingly sophisticated. It’s a quick, one-pan dinner solution that delivers on taste and ease, perfect for a busy weeknight yet special enough for a casual gathering. Give this sweet, tangy, and savory dish a try—it’s sure to become a reliable favorite.
