Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Sausage and Apples

Description

Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Sausage and Apples is a simple, comforting meal that combines juicy smoked sausage, sweet apples, and tangy sauerkraut. As the ingredients slowly cook together, the sausage becomes tender, the apples soften and release their natural sweetness, and the sauerkraut mellows into a delicious savory-sweet side. This effortless recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy fall dinners, or meal prepping.

Ingredients

• 1½ pounds (680 g) smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 2 large apples (Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, or Granny Smith), cored and sliced
• 1 (24-ounce) jar sauerkraut, drained

Optional Seasonings (Not required but recommended):

• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar (if using tart apples)

Equipment

• 4 to 6-quart slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons (optional)

Instructions

Step 1

Slice the smoked sausage into bite-sized rounds.

Step 2

Core and slice the apples. Leave the peel on for extra texture and nutrients if desired.

Step 3

Drain the sauerkraut to prevent excess liquid.

Step 4

Layer half of the sauerkraut in the slow cooker.

Step 5

Add half of the sausage and half of the apples.

Step 6

Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.

Step 7

Cover and cook:

• Low: 4–5 hours
• High: 2–3 hours

Step 8

Gently stir before serving.

Recipe Notes

• Honeycrisp and Fuji apples create a sweeter flavor.
• Granny Smith apples provide a pleasant tart contrast.
• Smoked sausage works best because it stays juicy during slow cooking.
• Do not overcook or the apples may become too soft.
• Draining the sauerkraut helps balance the flavors.

Tips for Success

• Brown the sausage before slow cooking for extra flavor.
• Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy twist.
• Sprinkle fresh parsley before serving.
• Pair with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, rice, or crusty bread.
• Leftovers taste even better the next day.

Variations

Sweet & Savory

Add:

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

German Style

Serve with:

• Mustard
• Soft pretzels
• German potato salad

Spicy Version

Add:

• Red pepper flakes
• Spicy smoked sausage

Low-Carb Version

Serve over cauliflower mash.

Servings

Makes: 6 servings

Estimated Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Values are approximate and vary depending on the sausage and sauerkraut used.

Health Benefits

Apples

• Rich in fiber for digestive health.
• Provide vitamin C and antioxidants.
• Add natural sweetness without refined sugar.

Sauerkraut

• Contains beneficial probiotics (especially if unpasteurized before cooking).
• Good source of vitamin C and vitamin K.
• Supports gut health.

Smoked Sausage

• Excellent source of protein.
• Provides iron and vitamin B12.
• Helps create a satisfying, filling meal.

Storage

Refrigerator

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Microwave for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Or warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Mashed potatoes
• Buttered egg noodles
• Roasted vegetables
• Steamed green beans
• Rye bread
• Crusty artisan bread
• Mustard on the side

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh sausage instead of smoked sausage?

Yes. Brown fresh sausage thoroughly before adding it to the slow cooker to ensure it cooks safely and develops better flavor.

2. Which apples work best?

Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, Granny Smith, and Pink Lady all work well. Sweeter apples yield a milder dish, while tart apples provide more contrast.

3. Can I cook it overnight?

It’s best not to leave it cooking longer than the recommended time, as the apples can become mushy and the sausage may lose its ideal texture.

4. Can I add onions?

Absolutely. One sliced onion adds extra sweetness and depth of flavor.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be, provided you use certified gluten-free smoked sausage and check that your sauerkraut contains no gluten-containing additives.

6. Can I make it ahead?

Yes. Assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker insert, refrigerate overnight, and start cooking the next day.

7. What can I serve with it?

Mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread are all excellent accompaniments.

8. Can I use red apples or green apples?

Both work well. Red apples are generally sweeter, while green apples add a brighter tartness.

9. Why drain the sauerkraut?

Draining removes excess brine, preventing the dish from becoming overly salty or watery while allowing the sweet apples and savory sausage to shine.

10. Can leftovers be frozen?

Yes. Cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Quick Recipe Summary

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4–5 hours (Low) or 2–3 hours (High)
• Total Time: About 4 hours 10 minutes to 5 hours 10 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Difficulty: Easy
• Cuisine: American/German-inspired
• Course: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Key Ingredients: Smoked sausage, apples, sauerkraut