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Instructions:
- Brown the Sausage:
Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the ground sausage. Brown the sausage, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes, until the sausage is no longer pink and is nicely browned. Remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside. - Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic. - Cook the Potatoes:
Add the diced potatoes to the pan and stir them into the onion and garlic mixture. Let them cook for about 5 minutes, allowing them to lightly brown on the edges. This step adds flavor and texture to the potatoes, making them even more delicious in the final dish. - Combine Everything:
Once the potatoes are slightly browned, add the sauerkraut, broth, and mustard to the skillet. Stir everything together, making sure the potatoes are well-coated. If you’re using caraway seeds, sprinkle them in now. They add a distinct flavor that’s traditional to many German dishes, though they’re optional if you prefer a milder taste. - Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and have absorbed the flavors. Stir occasionally to make sure nothing is sticking to the bottom of the pan. - Finish the Dish:
Once the potatoes are cooked through and soft, return the browned sausage to the skillet. Stir everything together, allowing the sausage to heat through and mix with the other ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste. - Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is well-combined, remove the pan from the heat. Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve the dish hot, with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad to round out the meal.
Serving Suggestions
While this dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, there are a few ways you can round out the meal:
- Crusty Bread: A loaf of hearty, rustic bread is perfect for sopping up the flavorful juices of the casserole.
- Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help balance out the richness of the dish.
- Beer: If you want to drink something that pairs well with this German-inspired dish, consider a cold lager, pilsner, or wheat beer. The crispness of the beer complements the flavors of the sausage and sauerkraut perfectly.
Why My Hubby Loves It (And Why You Will Too!)
So, what is it about this dish that makes my husband ask for it week after week? I think it’s the comforting combination of flavors: the savory sausage, the tangy sauerkraut, and the creamy, tender potatoes all come together in one satisfying dish. It’s hearty, filling, and the mustard gives it just the right amount of zing. Plus, it’s one of those dishes that gets better the next day, making leftovers something to look forward to.
Beyond the flavor, it’s also a simple and efficient meal to prepare. It’s one of those dishes you can throw together after a long day without too much fuss. But even though it’s easy, it feels special—like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen creating something from scratch. The blend of flavors and textures makes it feel like a dish that’s been passed down through generations.
Final Thoughts
Food has a way of creating memories, and this dish is one I’ll always associate with the warmth and hospitality of my German friend. It’s more than just a recipe—it’s a reminder of the connections we form over food, the traditions we pass along, and the joy of sharing a meal with the people we love.
If you’re looking for a dish that’s comforting, flavorful, and easy to make, give this German-inspired recipe a try. I can guarantee that it will quickly become a favorite at your table—just like it has at ours. And who knows, maybe your husband will start requesting it weekly too!
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