Slow Cooker Hot Dogs and Sauerkraut: Dump-and-Go

This slow cooker hot dogs and sauerkraut recipe is the ultimate dump-and-go dinner. Just layer hot dogs, sauerkraut, onion, brown sugar, caraway, and a pour of apple mustard sauce into the Crockpot, then walk away.

Hours later, you have a tangy-sweet, savory dish that's perfect for weeknights, game days, or casual gatherings. No buns required, though they're welcome. It's simple, comforting, and packed with flavor.

Hot dogs and sauerkraut are a classic pairing, but this slow cooker version makes it even easier. The hot dogs simmer gently in a sweet-and-sour sauce made from sauerkraut, brown sugar, and apple mustard.

The onions soften and melt into the kraut, while the caraway seeds add a warm, aromatic note. The result is a hearty, satisfying meal that needs almost no effort. Serve it straight from the slow cooker for a fuss-free dinner that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Why this recipe works

The slow cooker does all the work here. Cooking the hot dogs low and slow in the sauerkraut and sauce allows them to plump up and absorb the tangy, sweet flavors without drying out.

The onions break down slowly, becoming tender and sweet, while the sauerkraut keeps its pleasant crunch. The brown sugar balances the kraut's acidity, and the apple mustard sauce adds a fruity, sharp finish that ties everything together.

This method is also incredibly forgiving. You can leave it on low for a few hours and it will be ready when you are. The ingredients are all pantry staples or easy to find at any supermarket. You don't need to brown the hot dogs or sauté the onions first — just dump everything in the crock and let it cook. It's the kind of recipe that makes weeknight dinner feel effortless.

Notes and substitutions

The hot dogs are the star here, so choose a good-quality brand that you enjoy eating. Classic beef or pork hot dogs work well, but smoked sausages or kielbasa are also delicious.

If you prefer a less tangy dish, rinse the sauerkraut briefly before adding it. For a sweeter flavor, increase the brown sugar slightly. The apple mustard sauce can be store-bought or homemade — just whisk together apple juice and yellow mustard.

A 6-quart slow cooker is ideal for this quantity. If your slow cooker is smaller, reduce the recipe proportionally. The caraway seeds are traditional with sauerkraut, but they can be omitted or swapped for fennel seeds. For a gluten-free version, ensure the hot dogs and mustard are gluten-free. This dish is naturally dairy-free if you use dairy-free hot dogs and mustard.

• apple mustard sauce: 3/4 cup apple juice plus 1/4 cup yellow mustard, whisked together
• caraway seeds: 1 teaspoon fennel seeds or omit entirely
• brown sugar: 3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• hot dogs: Smoked sausages or kielbasa, sliced if desired

Equipment

• Slow cooker (6-quart or larger)
• Cutting board
• Chef's knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Large spoon for stirring