This slow cooker kraut dog recipe makes an American classic effortless and crowd-pleasing. Ideal for game days, potlucks, busy weeknights, or backyard cookouts, it uses just a few simple ingredients—hot dogs, sauerkraut (with juices), onion, and mustard. Cooking in a slow cooker or Instant Pot lets the hot dogs absorb the flavors of the sauerkraut, mustard, and onions while staying juicy and tender. Free up your stove or grill and serve a warm, satisfying meal with virtually no fuss.
Ingredients For Kraut Dogs
- Hot dogs
- Sauerkraut (with juices)
- Onion
- Mustard
- Oil (for Instant Pot; optional for slow cooker)
How To Make Kraut Dogs In The Slow Cooker
Slow Cooker
Optional: heat 1 tablespoon oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sauté the diced onion 3–5 minutes until soft.
- Add the onion (sautéed or raw), mustard, and sauerkraut (with juices) to the slow cooker; stir to combine.
- Arrange the hot dogs in the sauerkraut mixture, pressing them gently into the kraut.
- Cook on HIGH for 2–3 hours or on LOW for 4–6 hours, until heated through and flavorful.
Instant Pot
- Select the Sauté function and add 1 tablespoon oil. When hot, sauté the diced onion 3–5 minutes until soft.
- Pour in 1 cup water. Place the hot dogs on the bottom of the Instant Pot. Spoon mustard and the sauerkraut (with juices) on top of the hot dogs. Do not stir.
- Seal the lid and set to High Pressure for 1 minute.
- When the cook time finishes, perform a quick release. Carefully remove the lid and serve.
FAQ’s & Tips
What is a kraut dog?
A kraut dog is a hot dog topped with sauerkraut and commonly mustard. It’s a simple, tangy, and savory way to enjoy a classic frankfurter.
Should you drain the sauerkraut?
No—use the sauerkraut with its juices. The liquid adds flavor and helps steam the hot dogs as they cook.
Do you have to sauté the onions first?
Sautéing the onion is optional. It softens and sweetens the onion flavor, but you can add raw diced onion directly to the slow cooker if you prefer a quicker prep.
What else can you add to this recipe?
Enhance the flavor with herbs or seeds like caraway, dill seed, or fresh parsley. You can also stir in a touch of brown sugar, apple slices, or beer for variations.
How do you store leftovers?
Store leftover kraut dogs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, in the microwave, or briefly in a skillet.
What size slow cooker did I use?
This recipe fits well in a 3.5-quart slow cooker. To serve a larger crowd, double the ingredients and use a larger slow cooker.
Hot Dog & Sauerkraut Recipes
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Pork and Sauerkraut
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Air Fryer Chili Cheese Dogs
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Slow Cooker Hot Dogs
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Franks and Beans
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Sausage and Sauerkraut
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Air Fryer Hot Dogs
Slow Cooker Kraut Dogs
This slow cooker kraut dog recipe removes the hassle from preparing this classic comfort food. With minimal ingredients and hands-off cooking, it’s a reliable go-to for feeding family and guests.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2–3 hours (HIGH) or 4–6 hours (LOW)
- Total Time: about 3 hours (varies by setting)
- Yield: 5 hot dogs
Ingredients
- 5 hot dogs
- 15 ounces sauerkraut, with juices
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons yellow or Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon oil (for Instant Pot; optional for slow cooker)
- 1 cup water (Instant Pot only)
Instructions
Slow Cooker:
- Add the onion, mustard, and sauerkraut (with juices) to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
- Nestle the hot dogs into the sauerkraut mixture.
- Cook on HIGH for 2–3 hours or on LOW for 4–6 hours.
Instant Pot:
- Select Sauté and add oil. Sauté onion 3–5 minutes until soft.
- Pour in 1 cup water. Place hot dogs in the pot, add mustard and sauerkraut on top. Do not stir.
- Seal and cook on High Pressure for 1 minute, then quick release.
Nutrition
- Calories: 300 (approx.)
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