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Easy Bratwurst and Sauerkraut Skillet Dinner Recipe

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A hearty, one-skillet dinner featuring bratwurst simmered low and slow with sauerkraut and caramelized onions until the sausages are juicy and the kraut turns sweet. Ready in under 30 minutes, this comforting meal is perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4–6 bratwurst links (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 1 lb sauerkraut, drained
  • 1 large yellow onion, sliced into thin half-rings
  • 1 cup apple juice, beer, or chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp butter or oil
  • 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional)
  • 1 tbsp whole grain mustard (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep the ingredients: slice the onion into thin half-rings, drain the sauerkraut and gently squeeze out excess liquid, pat the bratwurst dry with paper towels.
  2. Heat the butter or oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bratwurst in a single layer and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until deep golden brown. Use tongs to flip carefully. Remove the brats to a plate and set aside.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the sliced onion to the same skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and starting to turn golden. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  4. Stir in the drained sauerkraut and caraway seeds (if using). Pour in the apple juice, beer, or broth. Stir everything together, scraping up any remaining browned bits.
  5. Nestle the browned bratwurst back into the skillet, pushing them down into the sauerkraut mixture. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes until the brats are cooked through and the sauerkraut is tender.
  6. Uncover and cook for another 2-3 minutes to thicken the liquid slightly. Stir in the whole grain mustard if using. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot.

Notes

Do not skip the searing step—it adds texture and depth. Use a good liquid like apple juice or beer for best flavor. The dish tastes even better the next day. For a low-carb option, use chicken broth instead of apple juice.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://lindabake.com/easy-bratwurst-and-sauerkraut-skillet-dinner-recipe/