Polish sausage, also known as kielbasa, is one of the most popular sausages. Typically made with pork, beef, or a combination of both, it is seasoned with garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
It is a staple in many households and is perfect for quick weeknight dinners, outdoor barbeques, or even as a snack.
It’s delicious on its own, but it tastes even better with complimentary side dishes. If you’re wondering what to serve with polish sausage, you’re in luck!
In this blog post, we’ll discuss quick and amazing side dishes that go well with this hearty sausage. These dishes are easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
What is Polish sausage? What does Polish sausage taste like?
Polish sausage is a specific type of smoked sausage that is traditionally made with pork and a variety of spices, including garlic, marjoram, and pepper. It has a coarse texture and smoky flavor.
The most popular types of Polish sausages have an intense flavor, partially due to the caraway seeds or other spices used in their preparation.
Generally speaking, they are slightly salty with mild to strong flavors depending on the herbs used to create them.
Additionally, Polish sausages often feature a garlicky aftertaste.
13 Best Sides to Serve with Polish Sausage
1. Potato Salad
A classic side dish that’s a great match with Polish sausage is potato salad.
It’s simple to prepare and can be served either warm or cold, depending on your preference.
Combine boiled potatoes, chopped hard-boiled eggs, sliced green onions, chopped dill, mayonnaise, and sour cream, and add a bit of mustard for a tangy flavor. Pinch with salt and black pepper to taste.
Discover More: Best Side Dishes to serve with Potato Salad and Baked Beans
2. Sauerkraut
Another classic side dish for Polish sausage is sauerkraut. It has a tangy and sour taste that balances out the saltiness of the sausage.
You can make fresh sauerkraut or use store-bought canned or jarred sauerkraut. Heat the sauerkraut in a pan and serve it alongside the sausage.
3. Grilled Vegetables
When you’re looking for a healthy, low-carb option to serve with Polish sausage, grilled vegetables are an excellent choice.
Simply brush sliced vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, peppers, and mushrooms with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and char-grill them. Serve them hot with the sausage.
4. Pierogi
Pierogi are a traditional Polish dumpling that pairs perfectly with Polish sausage.
Make your own pierogi or buy them from the store. Boil the pierogi, fry them in a skillet with butter or oil until crispy, and serve with the sausage for a hearty meal. (Recipe)
5. Coleslaw
Coleslaw is an ideal classic side dish for any BBQ or picnic. It’s easy to make and pairs well with Polish sausage.
For a tasty coleslaw recipe, combine shredded cabbage, grated carrots, sliced scallions, and a dressing made of mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and mustard.
6. Mashed Potatoes
Another classic side dish that goes well with Polish sausage is mashed potatoes.
Boil peeled potatoes, mash them with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until creamy, and serve the sausage alongside them.
7. Baked Beans
Baked beans are a hearty and warming side dish that balances out the saltiness of the sausage.
You can make homemade baked beans or use store-bought canned beans. Add some garlic, onions, molasses, and ketchup to give the beans a sweet and savory taste.
8. Cucumber Salad
Cucumber salad is an ideal refreshing and light side dish that’s perfect for a hot summer day.
Thinly slice cucumbers, onions, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers, sprinkle with salt and pepper and dress with a simple combination of olive oil, vinegar, and sugar.
9. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a nutritious and tasty side dish that complements the smoky flavor of the sausage.
Cut sweet potatoes into wedges, season with salt, brown sugar, and cinnamon, and roast them in the oven until soft and tender. Serve them hot with the sausage.
10. Corn on the Cob
If you’re serving Polish sausage at a summer BBQ or picnic, corn on the cob is a great side dish.
Boil the corn, brush it with some butter, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. It’s simple but delicious.
Explore More: Best Side Dishes to Serve with Corn on the Cob
11. Cabbage and Apple Slaw
If you are looking for a lighter side dish, then cabbage and apple slaw is a great option.
This sweet and tangy slaw is a perfect complement to the spicy and savory kielbasa.
12. Crusty Bread
Crusty bread is ideal for mopping up any leftover juices from the kielbasa. It is also great for making kielbasa sandwiches the next day.
Find Out More: Best ideas of Meals to Serve with Crusty Bread
13. Green Beans
Green beans are a perfect healthy and nutritious side dish that can provide some crunch and texture to your meal.
They are also quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
What are the best flavors to go with Polish sausage?
Polish sausage, also known as kielbasa, is a flavorful and versatile type of smoked sausage.
Depending on the type of Polish sausage you choose, there are a variety of flavors that pair well with it.
If you’re looking for something classic, try pairing Polish sausage with sauerkraut or other pickled vegetables such as peppers and onions. The tartness of the pickled vegetables complements the smokiness of the Polish sausage.
You can also enjoy it with a variety of mustard or hot sauces for added flavor.
Another great way to enjoy Polish sausage is by pairing it with mashed potatoes. The creamy texture and mild flavor of mashed potatoes complement the smoky heat of the Polish sausage perfectly.
You can add some minced onions and chives for extra flavor, or top the dish with a whip of sour cream and some chopped parsley for an added touch.
For a more unique twist on this traditional dish, consider slicing the Polish sausage into coins and adding them to dishes like stews and soups. This will add depth to any dish while maintaining its spicy kick!
Additionally, Serve Polish Sausage alongside roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes – both options offer a great balance to the smokiness of the sausage itself.
Learn More: Delicious Side Dishes to Serve with Venison Sausages
How do you jazz up Polish sausage?
There are many different ways to jazz up Polish sausage. One easy and delicious way is to fry it up in a skillet with some vegetables such as onions, bell pepper, celery, or mushrooms.
You can also add some garlic and spices, such as paprika, for extra flavor.
Another option is to simmer the sausage in beer or chicken broth before adding it to your favorite recipes like soups or stews.
Finally, enjoy your freshly cooked Polish sausage on its own with some mustard and sauerkraut for added zest!
How do you display Polish sausage on a platter?
Polish sausage, or kielbasa, is a savory main dish that can be represented in a variety of ways.
To display it on a platter, the sausages should be arranged in an overlapping pattern, with the larger links placed at the center and smaller pieces spiraling outward.
If desired, other accompaniments, such as mashed potatoes, sauerkraut or roasted vegetables, can be added to create an impressive presentation.
Additionally, garnishes such as sliced onions or chives can provide a colorful touch that will draw attention to the platter.
To finish off the presentation, sprigs of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be stuffed into the sausage links for added visual appeal.
how to serve kielbasa as an appetizer
Kielbasa is an excellent choice for a savory appetizer. To serve it, begin by cutting the sausage into bite-sized slices. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add some oil.
Carefully place the kielbasa slices in the preheated skillet and cook until both sides are golden brown and slightly crispy.
You can season with salt, pepper, or your favorite spices while cooking if desired.
Once cooked, let the kielbasa sit for a few minutes until cooled down to room temperature.
Serve alongside some warm pita bread or crackers for dipping into sauces such as spicy mustard or garlic aioli.
Kielbasa can also be served on top of toast points spread with cream cheese and sprinkled with herbs like parsley or dill weed for an extra flavorful bite.
You can even skewer them onto wood picks and serve them as party snacks!
Wrap Up on what to serve with polish sausage.
Polish sausage is a staple food in many households, but if you’re tired of the same old boring side dishes, try these ten quick and amazing side dishes to serve with it.
From classic coleslaw to roasted sweet potatoes, these dishes are sure to please your taste buds and make your meal complete. Plus, they’re simple to make and perfect for any occasion.
So, the next time you are wondering what to serve with Polish sausage, try one of these quick and tasty dishes, and you won’t be disappointed.
FAQs
How much Polish sausage per person?
When preparing Polish sausage for a crowd, it is important to consider how much sausage each person will need.
Generally, it is recommended to plan on about 1/3 of a pound of sausage per person.
This should provide enough to satisfy the appetite of most adults while also leaving some extra for seconds or leftovers.
If you are having a larger group or know that your guests are big meat eaters, you may want to plan on more like 1/2 pound of sausage per person.
Notwithstanding the size of your gathering, ensuring there is enough Polish sausage to go around will make sure everyone enjoys the meal!
How many side dishes per person with Polish sausage?
Polish sausage is an excellent source of protein and minerals, making it a great choice for a side dish.
Depending on the number of people you are serving, you should plan on having about 1/4 to 1/3 pounds of Polish sausage per person.
When preparing side dishes to serve with it, aim for two or three sides per person.
Some great options include boiled potatoes, pierogi, coleslaw, sauerkraut, red cabbage, and sautéed vegetables like zucchini or peppers.
You could also pair the Polish sausage with potato pancakes or other fried foods such as onion rings or jalapeño poppers.
With all these delicious sides to choose from, your guests will have plenty of tasty accompaniments to enjoy with their Polish sausage!
How is Polish sausage traditionally served?
Polish sausage is traditionally served as a cold cut, grilled, boiled or fried. It can also be used in soups and stews to add flavor.
It is often served with potatoes, sauerkraut and horseradish.
Additionally, it may be accompanied by pickled peppers or mustard.
In some parts of Poland, Polish sausage will also be served on a hotdog bun as a sandwich.
What vegetables pair well with sausage?
Sausage is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. It goes particularly well with root vegetables, such as potatoes, carrots, onions, and turnips.
Roasted or grilled bell peppers are also delicious when paired with sausage.
Other vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and mushrooms can be sautéed or roasted to create a flavorful side dish to accompany your sausage entrée.
For a classic German-style meal, consider adding cabbage to the mix.
Whatever vegetables you choose, pair them with herbs like rosemary and thyme for an extra flavor boost.