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Easy Oktoberfest Bratwurst and Sauerkraut Skillet (Best 20-Minute Dinner)

Easy Oktoberfest Bratwurst and Sauerkraut Skillet - featured image
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This smoky, tangy, and sweet skillet dinner comes together in about 20 minutes, making it the perfect weeknight meal. It’s a comforting dish that brings back memories of family gatherings and is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4–5 bratwurst links (about 1 pound)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium apple (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), cored and diced
  • 1 can (14-16 ounces) sauerkraut, drained but not rinsed
  • 1/2 cup apple cider or chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard (for serving)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prep your ingredients first. Slice the onion into thin half-moons. Core and dice the apple into 1/2-inch pieces (leave the skin on). Drain the sauerkraut but don’t rinse it.
  2. Brown the bratwurst. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil or butter. Once shimmering, add the bratwurst links. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until deeply browned all over.
  3. Remove the bratwurst and set aside. Transfer the browned links to a plate. Don’t wipe out the pan.
  4. Cook the onions. Reduce heat to medium and add the sliced onions to the pan. Stir, scraping up browned bits. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and starting to turn golden.
  5. Add the apple and caraway seeds. Toss in the diced apple and caraway seeds (if using). Stir and cook for 2 minutes.
  6. Add the sauerkraut and liquid. Stir in the drained sauerkraut and pour in the apple cider or chicken broth. Add black pepper. Stir to combine. Nestle the browned bratwurst back into the pan.
  7. Simmer and finish. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes.
  8. Slice and serve. Remove lid, transfer bratwurst to a cutting board, and slice each link on a diagonal into 1-inch pieces. Return to pan and stir gently. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  9. Garnish and serve. Spoon onto plates or into a serving bowl. Top with whole grain mustard and fresh parsley. Serve immediately with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles.

Notes

Don’t skip browning the bratwurst—it builds flavor. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning. For a less tangy dish, rinse the sauerkraut briefly. Leftovers taste even better the next day.

Nutrition

Keywords: bratwurst, sauerkraut, Oktoberfest, skillet dinner, quick dinner, 20-minute meal, German recipe

Find it online: https://recipebelle.com/easy-oktoberfest-bratwurst-and-sauerkraut-skillet-best-20-minute-dinner/