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Easy German Bratwurst Skillet with Sauerkraut for a Perfect Dinner

German bratwurst skillet with sauerkraut - featured image

A quick and hearty one-pan meal featuring juicy bratwurst and tangy sauerkraut, ready in 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights when you crave comforting, savory flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 46 bratwurst sausages (about 1.5 lbs / 680 g)
  • 1 jar or bag sauerkraut (about 16 oz / 450 g)
  • 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium apple, peeled and diced (optional)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth (120 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep your ingredients: thinly slice the onion, mince the garlic, dice the apple if using, drain the sauerkraut, and pat the bratwurst dry.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the bratwurst for 3-4 minutes per side until deeply golden. Transfer to a plate.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining oil or butter and sauté the onion for 4-5 minutes until soft and golden. Add garlic and apple (if using) and cook 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Add the drained sauerkraut, caraway seeds (if using), brown sugar or honey (if using), and black pepper. Stir and cook for 2 minutes.
  5. Pour in the broth (or beer) and scrape up browned bits. Nestle the bratwurst back into the sauerkraut. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook on low for 15-20 minutes until bratwurst is cooked through (internal temperature 160°F / 71°C).
  6. Remove lid, adjust seasoning, garnish with parsley if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or a side salad.

Notes

For a beer-braised version, replace broth with a light lager or pilsner. If using canned sauerkraut, rinse it to reduce saltiness. Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: bratwurst, sauerkraut, German skillet, one-pan dinner, quick dinner, comfort food