Slow Cooker Kielbasa and Sauerkraut

Slow Cooker kielbasa and sauerkraut is a classic comfort dish made with smoky Polish sausage, tangy sauerkraut, sweet apples, and a rich brown sugar and beer mixture. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with big flavors.

The slow cooker does all the work here—just layer, pour, and let the magic happen. What you get is a warm, hearty meal that works year-round. Cold weather? It’s cozy. Summer BBQ? It’s a hit. Potluck? You’re the hero.

This crockpot kielbasa recipe makes a ton, so it’s great for serving a crowd. Plus, the crockpot can be set to warm to keep the dish hot and ready at a potluck or party.

And leftovers? Even better the next day. Whether served with potatoes, noodles, or tucked into a sandwich, this meal always hits the spot.

The slow cooker really does come through with the comforting meals. Slow cooker brisket and slow cooker braised beef short ribs are two more you’re going to want to try. If ever you need an easy way to cook a big meal your whole family will love, crockpot recipes are always the way to go!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Sauerkraut and Kielbasa

This section includes ingredient notes and substitution options. Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable recipe card at the end of this post.

• Kielbasa – I usually grab either Johnsonville Polish Kielbasa or Hillshire Farms Polska Kielbasa, but any fully cooked smoked kielbasa works great here.
• Sauerkraut – Found in a jar, a can, or a bag, this is fermented cabbage that sits in brine, so you’ll need to drain it first. You can rinse it in a strainer before draining if you prefer a milder, less tangy flavor.
• Sweet onion – Thinly sliced sweet onion has a milder taste than the traditional onions but yellow onions would also work if that is what you have on hand.
• Apple – Peel, core, and chop an apple for a little tartness, a little sweetness, and a bit of crispiness for texture.
• Beer – Use whatever beer you typically keep on hand or like to drink. Ales, lagers, or stouts are all good choices. I use Miller Light beer, just because that’s what we had at home.
• Brown sugar – For a caramelized sweetness that balances out the briny tang of the sauerkraut. You can use light brown sugar or dark brown sugar, whichever you prefer. The dark brown sugar will have a deeper flavor.
• Minced garlic cloves and caraway seeds – Gives it plenty of aromatic, earthy, and floral notes.

How to Cook Kielbasa and Sauerkraut in Slow Cooker

This section shows you how to make the recipe with step-by-step photos and instructions. For the full printable recipe, see the recipe card below. 

1. Spray the basin of the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray and add the drained sauerkraut to the bottom, in an even layer.
2. Add the pieces of kielbasa sausage, onions, and apples.
3. Top with a mixture of beer, brown sugar, garlic, and caraway seeds.
4. Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 2–4 hours. Stir at least once before serving. Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. A serving of applesauce on the side or a broccoli crunch salad or garden salad is a tasty way to complete the meal.

You can also turn it into a delicious sandwich served on sausage rolls or rye bread with or without melted cheese on top!

Storage

Refrigerator: Keep leftovers stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezer: Keep frozen for up to 1 month in a freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat until warmed through before serving.

How to Reheat: You can use the microwave, the slow cooker, or a skillet on the stove to reheat this recipe.

Additions and variations

• Swap the alcohol for apple juice. Swap the alcohol for apple juice or apple cider: Mix 8 oz of apple juice with 4 oz water as a beer substitute.
• Use hard cider. Great if you aren’t a beer fan.
• Add potatoes: Toss in chopped red or Yukon gold potatoes for a heartier one-pot meal.

More Crock Pot Recipes

• Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples
• Slow Cooker Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches
• Crockpot Little Smokies
• Slow Cooker Corned Beef