Some meals do more than satisfy hunger—they tell a story. This rustic slow cooker casserole is a heartfelt tribute to the culinary traditions of Midwest families whose roots reach across oceans. Immigrant communities brought their love for sauerkraut, sausage, and hearty potatoes to the heartland, transforming them into nourishing dishes that fed generations. This recipe blends humble, pantry-friendly ingredients with slow-cooked comfort to create a casserole that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or simply a cozy night in.
With layers of tender potatoes, tangy sauerkraut, and savory sausage, this dish warms both the stomach and the soul. A sprinkle of Swiss cheese at the end brings just the right richness to balance the tang. While deeply rooted in history, the beauty of this recipe is its flexibility—you can easily adapt it to fit your taste or dietary preferences. It’s a reminder that food can carry legacy, preserve culture, and connect people across generations.
Pair it with dark rye bread, a crisp salad, or a scoop of applesauce, and you’ve got a well-rounded meal that invites conversation, comfort, and maybe even a bit of nostalgia.
Slow Cooker Ground Sausage, Sauerkraut & Potato Casserole
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground sausage (pork or turkey)
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 (16 oz) jar sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional, for traditional flavor)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese (for topping)
Directions:
- Brown the ground sausage in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon. Once cooked through, set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.
- In your slow cooker, layer half the potatoes, then half the sauerkraut, followed by half the sausage. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
- Sprinkle caraway seeds on top if using.
- Pour chicken broth over the entire mixture, then season with salt and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, until potatoes are tender.
- In the last 30 minutes, sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese over the top and let it melt before serving.
Nutritional and Dietary Insights
This casserole offers a comforting balance of protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates. Sausage provides protein and depth of flavor, while potatoes supply long-lasting energy. Sauerkraut brings gut-friendly probiotics and a tangy brightness to the dish. If you’re watching your sodium intake, be mindful of the sausage and sauerkraut; choosing low-sodium versions can help. Opting for turkey sausage lowers the fat content without sacrificing flavor. It’s naturally gluten-free if all ingredients are verified as such.
Sharing and Commenting is Caring
If this slow-cooked classic brought warmth to your table, we’d love to hear about it! Share the recipe with someone who appreciates comforting meals with cultural roots, or leave a comment with your own twist. Every bit of feedback or shared story keeps kitchen traditions alive and growing!