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Easy German Bratwurst Skillet with Sauerkraut & Apples

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A quick and easy one-skillet meal featuring juicy bratwurst nestled in tangy sauerkraut and sweet, caramelized apples. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a weeknight dinner that even self-proclaimed sauerkraut haters will love.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bratwurst links (about 1 pound)
  • 1 can (14-16 ounces) sauerkraut, drained but not rinsed
  • 1 medium apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), cored and sliced into thin half-moons
  • 1 medium yellow or sweet onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • ½ cup (120 ml) chicken or vegetable broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep your ingredients: Thinly slice the onion and apple into ¼-inch thick slices. Drain the sauerkraut in a colander (do not rinse) and gently squeeze out excess liquid.
  2. Brown the bratwurst: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bratwurst and cook for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. Transfer to a plate (they will not be cooked through).
  3. Sauté the aromatics: Reduce heat to medium. Add the sliced onion and apple to the same skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  4. Add the sauerkraut and broth: Add the drained sauerkraut, ½ cup of broth, and 1 teaspoon of caraway seeds (if using). Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Finish cooking: Nestle the browned bratwurst back into the skillet. Cover with a lid, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until the bratwurst are cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F for fresh bratwurst) and the apples are tender.
  6. Serve: Remove the lid. Season the sauerkraut mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the bratwurst hot, topped with the sauerkraut, onion, and apple mixture. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

For a low-carb version, omit the apple and add sliced fennel bulb. To prevent apples from turning to mush, slice them ¼-inch thick and do not overcook. If using pre-cooked bratwurst, reduce simmering time to 5-7 minutes. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: bratwurst, sauerkraut, apples, German, skillet, one-pan, weeknight dinner, easy

Find it online: https://perkypan.com/easy-german-bratwurst-skillet-with-sauerkraut-and-apples/