When the chill of autumn settles in, there’s an unmistakable craving for cozy comfort food to fill the air. That’s when I love to whip up these delightful Sausage & Sauerkraut Sliders, a dish that transforms humble ingredients into a flavor-packed experience reminiscent of lively Oktoberfest celebrations. Picture this: juicy bratwurst nestled in soft, toasty buns, all topped with tangy sauerkraut and a smear of spicy beer mustard. It’s a dish that not only pleases the palate but also makes the perfect game day centerpiece or festive gathering snack.
What makes these sliders truly special, besides their deliciousness? They’re simple to prepare in just 35 minutes! That’s right—home-cooked comfort food doesn’t have to be complex when you can have a hearty, satisfying meal on the table in no time. So gather your friends and family, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Germany right in your kitchen. With every bite, you’ll feel the warmth of home and the spirit of celebration!
Why are Sausage & Sauerkraut Sliders a Hit?
Irresistible Flavor: The savory blend of juicy bratwurst and tangy sauerkraut creates a taste that’s both robust and comforting.
Quick Preparation: Ready in just 35 minutes, this recipe makes it easy to bring homemade goodness to your table without the fuss.
Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, these sliders are sure to impress family and friends, making them a fantastic game day snack.
Versatile: Feel free to switch up the sauce or toppings, catering to your guests’ palates while keeping the essence of Oktoberfest alive.
Cozy Comfort: Every bite warms your soul, making these sliders a go-to for chilly evenings or festive occasions.
Sausage & Sauerkraut Sliders Ingredients
For the Sliders
- 4 medium russet potatoes – Provides the base for sliders; can use Yukon gold potatoes for a creamier texture.
- 1 small onion – Adds sweetness and flavor; shallots can be used for a milder taste.
- 2 eggs – Binds ingredients together; can replace with a flax egg for a vegan option.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour – Adds structure to the slider; gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free version.
- 1 tsp salt – Enhances flavors.
- ½ tsp black pepper – Provides seasoning.
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola) – Helps achieve crispiness; olive oil can be used but may change flavor.
For Serving
- Applesauce or sour cream – Adds a sweet or tangy contrast; Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative to sour cream.
How to Make Sausage & Sauerkraut Sliders
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Grate potatoes and onion: Start by using a box grater or food processor to finely grate the russet potatoes and onion. Once grated, squeeze out excess liquid with a clean towel to ensure your sliders hold together beautifully.
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Mix batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated potato and onion mixture with eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly mixed, creating a batter that will be delightfully crispy when cooked.
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Heat oil in skillet: Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat, adding enough vegetable or canola oil so that it covers the bottom. You want the oil hot enough to fry, but not smoking!
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Cook patties: Using a spoon, drop generous spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, flattening them slightly with a spatula to create patties. Give them some space in the pan so they won’t stick together!
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Fry until golden: Let the patties cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and develop that crispy outer layer. Once cooked, transfer them onto paper towels to drain any excess oil.
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Serve hot: Plate your crispy sliders and top them with a spoonful of tangy sauerkraut, a drizzle of spicy beer mustard, and a dollop of sour cream or applesauce for that classic, mouthwatering finish.
Optional: Garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley for an extra pop of flavor and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Sausage & Sauerkraut Sliders
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Kraut Preparation: Squeeze out excess moisture from the sauerkraut to avoid soggy sliders. A dry base will keep your sliders crispy!
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Mind the Mustard: Apply mustard sparingly to prevent overwhelming flavors. A little goes a long way to enhance the taste without overpowering it.
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Cook in Batches: Fry sliders in small batches to maintain consistent heat in the pan. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and sogginess.
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Test the Oil Temperature: Before frying, drop a small spoonful of batter into the oil. If it sizzles and bubbles, it’s ready! This helps achieve that perfect golden color.
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Customize Toppings: Feel free to experiment with toppings! Adding sautéed mushrooms or a slice of cheese can take your sliders to the next level while keeping the essence of Sausage & Sauerkraut Sliders.
How to Store and Freeze Sausage & Sauerkraut Sliders
Fridge: Store your sliders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh, allowing you to enjoy their delightful flavors even after the initial meal.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze sliders individually wrapped in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. This helps prevent freezer burn and maintains taste.
Reheating: To reheat, place frozen sliders directly in a skillet over medium heat. Cover to retain moisture, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy.
Assemble Before Eating: If you prefer, keep bratwurst and sauerkraut stored separately and assemble the sliders just before serving. This keeps your buns toasty and your ingredients fresh.
What to Serve with Sausage & Sauerkraut Sliders?
Create a delightful dining experience by adding some fantastic pairings to your sliders that enhance their comforting flavors.
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of the fries perfectly balances the savory sliders, adding a delightful crunch to your meal.
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Tangy Cabbage Slaw: A refreshing slaw adds a crunchy element and bright acidity, complementing the rich flavors of the sliders beautifully. The interplay of textures makes each bite more exciting.
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German Potato Salad: This warm, tangy salad pairs wonderfully, offering a hearty side that echoes the sliders’ flavors and ties together your meal with a festive touch.
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Beer-Battered Onion Rings: Crispy, golden onion rings add that satisfying crunch; their rich flavor harmonizes with the sausage for a true Oktoberfest experience in every bite.
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Soft Pretzels with Mustard Dip: These classics bring a fun authenticity to your gathering, with their salty exterior and chewy texture making them a perfect companion for your sliders.
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Apple Cinnamon Cider: A warm, spiced cider offers a cozy drink option that pairs well with the savory flavors, creating an inviting atmosphere for your meal.
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Chocolate Stout Cake: For dessert, this rich cake brings the perfect balance of sweetness and depth, echoing the flavors of the sliders while offering a delightful way to end your meal.
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Fresh Beet Salad: A colorful salad with roasted or pickled beets adds earthiness and brightness, balancing the richness of the sliders with its vibrant flavors.
Each of these pairings brings something special to your gathering, making your Sausage & Sauerkraut Sliders even more memorable!
Make Ahead Options
These Sausage & Sauerkraut Sliders are a fantastic meal prep option for busy weeknights or game days! You can prepare the potato and onion batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, cook the bratwurst and sauerkraut separately ahead of time and refrigerate those for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the bratwurst and sauerkraut on the stove or in the microwave, then drop spoonfuls of the batter into a hot skillet for frying. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious flavor with minimal effort, making your meals not only quicker but also just as delightful as if made fresh!
Sausage & Sauerkraut Sliders Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and customize it to your heart’s desire! Each modification brings a unique twist that can transform your sliders into a new favorite.
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley into the batter for a fresh, aromatic flavor boost that elevates each bite. The added greenery not only enhances taste but also brightens the dish!
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Spicy Twist: Substitute regular sausage with spicy andouille or chorizo for a delightful kick. This change introduces a bold flavor profile that’s perfect for those who love a bit of heat!
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Savory Add-ins: Mix in sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions to the batter for an extra layer of flavor. The earthy taste from mushrooms beautifully complements the sausage and sauerkraut’s tanginess.
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Cheesy Delight: Top sliders with melted cheese like Gruyère or cheddar right after frying. The gooey goodness will create an irresistible creamy texture paired with the crispy sliders.
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Vegan Option: Swap out bratwurst for a plant-based sausage and use a flax egg instead of chicken eggs. You can enjoy the same great taste while catering to vegan diets, making these sliders truly inclusive.
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Crunchy Toppings: Add some crispy fried onions or coleslaw for a delightful crunch atop your sliders. These toppings not only add texture but also whip up a fun presentation!
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Mustard Variety: Experiment with different types of mustards like Dijon, honey mustard, or spicy brown mustard for different flavor profiles. Each mustard brings a unique tang that can radically alter the dish!
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Tropical Surprise: For a hint of sweetness, add some pineapple slices or mango chutney on top. This unexpected twist adds a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors in your sliders.
Sausage & Sauerkraut Sliders Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes work best for the sliders?
I recommend using medium russet potatoes for their starchy texture, which helps bind the sliders together. You can also opt for Yukon gold potatoes if you prefer a creamier feel.
How should I store leftover sliders?
Store your Sausage & Sauerkraut Sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness when reheating, place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Can I freeze the sliders?
Absolutely! For freezing, wrap each slider individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-friendly bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, heat from frozen directly in a skillet for about 5-7 minutes, covering to keep them moist.
What should I do if my sliders are soggy?
If your sliders turn out soggy, it might be due to excess moisture from the potatoes or sauerkraut. To prevent this, squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the grated potato and the sauerkraut before mixing your ingredients. Also, make sure your oil is hot enough to fry the patties to golden perfection quickly.
Is there a substitute for eggs in this recipe?
Yes! You can replace the two eggs with a flax egg, which works wonderfully for a vegan option. To make a flax egg, mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water and let it sit for about five minutes until it thickens to a gel-like consistency.
Can I serve the sliders with something other than sauerkraut?
Of course! While sauerkraut gives a classic German flavor, feel free to try different toppings such as sautéed onions, fresh herbs, or even kimchi for a unique twist—after all, versatility is the spice of life!
Savor the Flavor with Sausage & Sauerkraut Sliders!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Grate potatoes and onion: Start by using a box grater or food processor to finely grate the russet potatoes and onion. Once grated, squeeze out excess liquid with a clean towel to ensure your sliders hold together beautifully.
- Mix batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated potato and onion mixture with eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly mixed, creating a batter that will be delightfully crispy when cooked.
- Heat oil in skillet: Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat, adding enough vegetable or canola oil so that it covers the bottom. You want the oil hot enough to fry, but not smoking!
- Cook patties: Using a spoon, drop generous spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, flattening them slightly with a spatula to create patties. Give them some space in the pan so they won't stick together!
- Fry until golden: Let the patties cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and develop that crispy outer layer. Once cooked, transfer them onto paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve hot: Plate your crispy sliders and top them with a spoonful of tangy sauerkraut, a drizzle of spicy beer mustard, and a dollop of sour cream or applesauce for that classic, mouthwatering finish.