This Easy Slow Cooker Sausage and Sauerkraut is a sweet and tangy weeknight meal made with kielbasa, apples, and sauerkraut. Perfect for busy days!

Sausage and sauerkraut in a crock pot with a wooden ladle.

When I need an easy weeknight meal that practically cooks itself, this Slow Cooker Sausage and Sauerkraut is one of my go-to recipes. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for those extra busy days when I don’t want to spend much time in the kitchen. Just toss everything in the crock pot and let it do the work while the house fills with the most comforting smell.

If you love simple slow cooker dinners like my Slow Cooker Apple BBQ Chicken, Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup, or Slow Cooker Apple Butter, this recipe will fit right into your rotation. It’s cozy, slightly sweet, a little tangy, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Need another easy meal? Check out this Sausage, Potato, and Cabbage recipe.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Perfect for busy nights: This dump-and-go recipe takes just minutes to prep and cooks while you handle everything else.

Sweet and tangy flavor: The brown sugar and apple balance the sauerkraut beautifully for a delicious flavor combo.

Great for feeding a family: It’s hearty, comforting, and pairs easily with potatoes, noodles, or crusty bread.

A cutting board with sausage, apple juice in a measuring cup, a bowl of brown sugar, a bowl of diced apples, and a jar of sauerkraut.

Ingredients

Kielbasa sausage: Smoked kielbasa works best because it holds up well in the slow cooker and adds tons of flavor. I love using turkey kielbasa for a lighter option.
Sauerkraut: Use a jar or bag of sauerkraut, drained. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can rinse it briefly.
Brown sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness that balances the tangy sauerkraut. Light or dark brown sugar both work.
Apple juice: Helps tenderize the sausage and adds a nice sweetness. Apple cider can be used instead.
Apple: A sliced apple adds a sweet-and-savory flavor to the dish. Add a Granny Smith for a tangy, tart flavor or Gala and Fuji for a sweeter flavor.

*See the printable recipe card at the bottom of the page for detailed instructions and a list of ingredients.

How To Make Crock Pot Sausage and Sauerkraut

This is one of the simplest meals to throw together on busy weeknights. All you need to do is:

Slice the sausage into 1-inch pieces.
Dice the apple.
Put everything into a Crock Pot and cover.
Cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours until heated through.

That’s it! The flavors come together perfectly and taste so delicious!

Sliced sausage, diced apple, and brown sugar in a crock pot.

Variation Ideas

There are several ways to switch up this easy dinner recipe:

Add potatoes: Toss in baby potatoes for a complete one-pot meal.
Use bratwurst: Substitute bratwurst or smoked sausage for a slightly different flavor.
Add onions: Sliced onions add even more savory depth.
Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or spicy sausage for a little heat.

Storage Options

To store: Store in a covered, air-tight container at room temperature for up to 4 weeks.

To freeze: Place in an air-tight container and freeze for up to 2 months.

Delicious slow cooker sausage with sauerkraut cooking in a black slow cooker, featuring sliced sausage, cabbage, and carrots, ready for serving.

Helpful Tips

*Brown the sausage first: If you have a few extra minutes, brown the kielbasa in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. I noted through testing that it deepens the flavor.

*Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a more savory dish, reduce the brown sugar slightly.

*Serve with sides: This recipe is delicious with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or warm crusty bread.

More Delicious Slow Cooker Recipes

Did you try this recipe? I would love for you to leave a ⭐ review below and tag me @whiskfulcooking on social media on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube!