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Hearty German Bratwurst and Sauerkraut Skillet – Easy One-Pan Dinner

German bratwurst and sauerkraut skillet - featured image
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This hearty German bratwurst and sauerkraut skillet is proof that simple ingredients, treated right, can create something truly special. It’s the meal I turn to when I need comfort without a lot of fuss, and it never lets me down.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bratwurst sausages (about 1 lb / 450 g)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced (about 1 cup / 150 g)
  • 1 medium apple, cored and thinly sliced (Granny Smith recommended)
  • 1 ½ cups sauerkraut, drained (about 400 g)
  • ½ cup chicken broth (120 ml), low-sodium
  • 1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard (15 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Brown the bratwurst: Heat the olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bratwurst and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until deeply browned. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
  2. Cook the onions and apples: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the sliced onion and apple to the skillet with the rendered fat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and starting to brown, about 4-5 minutes. If the pan looks dry, add a splash of broth.
  3. Add the sauerkraut and seasonings: Stir in the drained sauerkraut, caraway seeds (if using), and whole-grain mustard. Cook for 1-2 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
  4. Return the bratwurst and add broth: Nestle the browned bratwurst back into the skillet on top of the sauerkraut mixture. Pour in the chicken broth.
  5. Simmer covered: Bring the broth to a gentle simmer, then cover the skillet with a lid or foil. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 10 minutes.
  6. Uncover and finish: Remove the lid and let it simmer uncovered for another 2-3 minutes to thicken the liquid slightly. The bratwurst should be cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F / 71°C).
  7. Rest and serve: Remove from heat. Let the skillet rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. Slice the bratwurst on a bias if you like, or serve them whole on a bed of the sauerkraut mixture. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Don’t skip the browning step for the best flavor. Watch the heat on the onions to avoid burning. Rinse sauerkraut if you prefer less tang. Use a meat thermometer to ensure bratwurst reaches 160°F (71°C). Let the skillet rest before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: bratwurst, sauerkraut, skillet, one-pan, German, easy dinner, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://elaraeats.com/hearty-german-bratwurst-and-sauerkraut-skillet-easy-one-pan-dinner/