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Tender potatoes, perfectly seared sausage, and tangy sauerkraut come together in this comforting one-pan meal. The simple mustard cream sauce ties everything together with rich, tangy flavor in just 30 minutes.
My husband, who dislikes sauerkraut, went back for seconds. The mustard cream sauce was the game-changer that brought everything together.
Key Ingredients With Purpose
- Kielbasa - Provides rich, smoky flavor
- Potatoes - Hearty base (use waxy varieties)
- Sauerkraut - Tangy brightness (drain well)
- Heavy cream - Silky sauce base
- Dijon & whole grain mustard - Tangy depth and texture
- Butter - Enriches sauce texture
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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prep potatoes
- Cut 1½ lbs potatoes into ¾" chunks, boil in salted water 8-10 mins until tender
- Prep other ingredients
- Slice 1 lb sausage, drain 2 cups sauerkraut, dice onion, mince garlic
- Sear potatoes
- Drain potatoes, sauté in oil 3-4 mins per side until golden, set aside
- Brown sausage
- Cook sausage slices 2-3 mins per side, set aside
- Sauté aromatics
- Cook onion in butter 4-5 mins, add garlic for 30 secs
The Perfect Balance of Flavors
Tangy sauerkraut balances rich cream sauce, while potatoes absorb flavors and sausage adds smoky depth. Resting 5 minutes allows flavors to meld and sauce to thicken.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette for freshness that contrasts the hearty skillet.
When I accidentally added extra mustard, it made the dish even better. Now I'm generous with mustard, knowing it gives this skillet its distinctive character.
This German Skillet has become one of our favorite weeknight meals, delivering restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort and maximum comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of sausage works best for this recipe?
- German sausage or Kielbasa is recommended, but the recipe notes that any smoked sausage or Polish Kielbasa works exceptionally well too.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- While best served fresh, you can prepare the components ahead and assemble with the sauce just before serving to maintain the best texture.
- → What can I serve with this German skillet?
- A simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread would complement this hearty dish perfectly.
- → Can I substitute the heavy cream?
- For a lighter version, you could use half-and-half, though the sauce won't be as rich. For dairy-free options, a plant-based cooking cream would work.
- → How should I store leftovers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of cream if needed.