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Best Easy German Bratwurst Skillet with Sauerkraut

German bratwurst skillet with sauerkraut - featured image
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A simple one-pan German bratwurst skillet with sauerkraut that comes together in under 30 minutes. The bratwurst stays tender and juicy while the sauerkraut absorbs all the savory juices, creating a comforting weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bratwurst sausages (about 1 pound, fresh or pre-cooked)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced (about 1 cup)
  • 2 cups sauerkraut, drained but not rinsed
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard (for serving)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep your ingredients: Slice the onion into thin half-rings. Drain the sauerkraut in a colander (do not rinse) and gently squeeze out excess liquid.
  2. Brown the bratwurst: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once shimmering, add the bratwurst and cook for about 4 minutes per side until nicely browned. Use tongs to turn the sausages to avoid piercing the casing.
  3. Cook the onions: Remove the bratwurst to a plate. Reduce heat to medium. Add the sliced onions to the pan with the rendered fat and oil. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and golden at the edges. Add a splash of chicken broth if the pan looks dry.
  4. Add the sauerkraut and seasonings: Add the drained sauerkraut to the pan with the onions. Sprinkle in the caraway seeds and black pepper. Stir and cook for about 2 minutes.
  5. Simmer everything together: Nestle the browned bratwurst back into the pan, pushing them into the sauerkraut mixture. Pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 10 minutes.
  6. Finish and serve: Remove the lid and let the liquid reduce slightly for about 1 minute. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with a dollop of whole grain mustard and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Notes

For best results, use fresh bratwurst from the meat counter. Refrigerated sauerkraut has better texture and flavor than canned. If using pre-cooked bratwurst, reduce simmering time to 5-7 minutes. Let the skillet rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

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

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