Description
These gourmet kielbasa sandwiches are packed with bold flavors, featuring smoky, seared sausage, caramelized onions, tangy sauerkraut, and melty Gruyere cheese. The zesty mustard-jalapeño spread adds a perfect balance of heat and sweetness, making every bite irresistibly delicious. Served on a toasted crusty roll, this sandwich is an elevated take on a hearty classic.
Ingredients
- 4 kielbasa sausages, sliced into rounds
- 2 sweet onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cups sauerkraut, drained
- 1 cup Gruyere cheese, sliced
- 4 crusty rolls
- 1/2 cup whole grain mustard
- 1/4 cup jalapeño jelly
Instructions
In a small bowl, mix together the whole grain mustard and jalapeño jelly until well combined to create the zesty spread.
Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat and brown the kielbasa slices until slightly caramelized around the edges. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Preheat the broiler.
Using the same skillet, add the thinly sliced sweet onions and cook until they begin to soften and brown. Stir in the sauerkraut and cook together for about 8 minutes, allowing most of the juices to evaporate.
Slice the crusty rolls and, if desired, scoop out a bit of the inside to create space for the fillings.
Spread some of the mustard-jalapeño mixture on the bottom half of each roll. Layer on the seared kielbasa rounds, followed by the onion and sauerkraut mixture, then top with a slice of Gruyere cheese.
Place the open-faced sandwiches under the broiler, along with the top halves of the rolls (cut-side up), until the cheese melts and the edges of the bread are slightly crisp.
Remove from the oven and spread more of the mustard-jalapeño condiment on the top half of each roll. Close the sandwiches and serve immediately.
Notes
- Kielbasa Choices: You can use any type of kielbasa you prefer, whether smoked, fresh, or spicy. Adjust the choice based on your heat preference or flavor profile.
- Sauerkraut Variation: If you’re not a fan of sauerkraut or want a milder flavor, try using coleslaw or even sautéed spinach as a substitute.
- Jalapeño Jelly: The jalapeño jelly adds a sweet and spicy kick to the sandwich. If you prefer less heat, use a mild jelly or reduce the amount of jelly in the mustard mix.
- Grilled Option: Instead of broiling, you can grill the sandwiches on a stovetop griddle or outdoor grill for an extra smoky flavor and char on the bread.
- Roll Choice: Crusty rolls are ideal for this recipe to hold the weight of the fillings, but you can substitute with other hearty bread types like baguettes or pretzel rolls for a different twist.
- Cheese Swap: Gruyere gives a wonderful creamy melt, but you can swap it with Swiss cheese or provolone for a similar melt but with a slightly different flavor profile.