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Bratwurst With Sauerkraut and Potatoes

Few dishes embody German comfort food like Bratwurst with sauerkraut and potatoes. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that pairs the smokiness of grilled sausage with the tang of fermented cabbage and the earthiness of boiled or pan-fried potatoes.

Whether served at a beer garden, Oktoberfest, or a Sunday family dinner, this trio remains one of Germany’s most enduring culinary traditions.

In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make Bratwurst with sauerkraut and potatoes the authentic way – with options for boiling, pan-searing, or grilling the sausage, plus homemade touches to elevate the sauerkraut.

Ingredients

Serves: 4

For the Bratwurst:

For the Sauerkraut:

For the Potatoes:

Equipment

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

  1. Peel the potatoes (optional) and cut into even halves or quarters.

  2. Place in a pot with salted water. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.

  3. Drain and keep warm. Optional: pan-fry in butter or oil for a crispy finish.

Step 2: Cook the Sauerkraut

  1. In a medium pot, melt butter or lard over medium heat.

  2. Add chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent.

  3. Stir in sauerkraut, apple (if using), caraway seeds, and a pinch of sugar.

  4. Simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or white wine if it gets too dry.

  5. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Cook the Bratwurst

Option 1 – Pan-Fried:

  1. Heat 1 tbsp oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.

  2. Add Bratwurst and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning frequently, until browned on all sides.

  3. Optional: Add ½ cup beer or broth and cover to steam for 5 more minutes.

Option 2 – Grilled:

  1. Preheat grill to medium heat.

  2. Grill sausages over indirect heat for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.

Option 3 – Boiled First, Then Seared:

  1. Simmer raw Bratwurst in water or broth for 10 minutes.

  2. Remove and brown in a hot pan for a crispy finish.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

Optional Additions:

Tips and Variations

Storage and Reheating

Simple, rustic, and packed with tradition, Bratwurst with sauerkraut and potatoes is German home cooking at its finest. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or planning an Oktoberfest feast, this dish delivers bold flavor with minimal effort.

Try pairing it with a cold Pilsner, a soft Pretzel, or a hearty German mustard for the full experience.

Looking for homemade sausage? Check out our Traditional Bratwurst Recipe.




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