Name: Oktoberfest Stew Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 (14 ounce) package beef smoked sausage, cut into bite-size slices; 1 ½ onion, sliced into thin semi-circles; ½ head small cabbage, halved again, cored and thinly sliced; 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped; 2 russet potatoes, peeled and cubed to bite-size pieces; 1 tablespoon flat-leaf parsley, chopped; ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; ¼ teaspoon ground caraway seeds; Pinch salt; 1 ½ tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 cup German-style lager beer (Oktoberfest variety); 2 ½ cups hot chicken stock

Jump to Recipe

If you are craving a dish that wraps you in a warm, comforting embrace while treating your taste buds to a symphony of flavors, then this Oktoberfest Stew Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with smoky sausage, tender cabbage, and the rich depth of German lager, this stew captures the heart of Oktoberfest in every bite. It’s a celebration of simple, hearty ingredients coming together for a dish that’s both satisfying and soul-soothing—perfect for sharing with friends during crisp autumn evenings or anytime you want to bring a bit of Bavarian cheer to your kitchen.

A thick stew is served in a white bowl with a dark rim, filled with chunky pieces of light beige potatoes and browned sausage slices, all mixed in a creamy, slightly greenish sauce with visible bits of herbs and small flecks of black pepper. The stew looks hearty and textured, with a rustic spoon lifting a portion from the bowl. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, and in the background, there is a dark pot with more stew and sausages, slightly out of focus. The image has a warm and cozy feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Oktoberfest Stew Recipe plays a vital role, from the smoky notes of the sausage to the earthy sweetness of cabbage and the subtle tang from the apple cider vinegar. These easy-to-find, wholesome components work together to create a stew that’s rich in texture and packed full of layered flavors.

1 tablespoon olive oil: This is your cooking base, helping to caramelize the sausage and onions for that deep, golden flavor.
1 (14 ounce) package beef smoked sausage, cut into bite-size slices: The star protein, adding smoky richness and hearty texture.
1 ½ onion, sliced into thin semi-circles: Adds sweetness and helps build the stew’s savory foundation.
½ head small cabbage, halved again, cored and thinly sliced: Offers a tender crunch and slightly sweet earthiness that balances the sausage.
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Brings a gentle heat and depth to the seasoning.
¼ teaspoon ground caraway seeds: Classic in German cooking, this spice adds a warm, nutty, bittersweet aroma that lifts the stew.
Pinch salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the natural flavors.
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped: Provides aromatic complexity and a slight pungency.
1 cup German-style lager beer (Oktoberfest variety): The liquid gold that infuses the stew with malty, caramel undertones.
2 russet potatoes, peeled and cubed to bite-size pieces: Adds creamy heartiness and helps thicken the stew.
2 ½ cups hot chicken stock: Creates a rich, flavorful broth as the stew simmers.
1 ½ tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Adds a bright splash of acidity to balance the richness.
1 tablespoon flat-leaf parsley, chopped: A fresh finish that brings a pop of color and mild herbaceousness.

How to Make Oktoberfest Stew Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Start by heating the olive oil in a medium-large pot over medium-high heat. Once warm, add your sliced beef smoked sausage. Let it caramelize for about 4 to 5 minutes, allowing those edges to brown beautifully, which builds a base of smoky flavor that the entire stew will lean on.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

Next, toss in the sliced onions and stir them in with the sausage. Give them a few minutes to soften and turn golden brown. This caramelization adds a natural sweetness that perfectly complements the savory sausage.

Step 3: Add the Cabbage

Once the onions have softened, it’s time to add the thinly sliced cabbage. Stir all together and let the cabbage soften and absorb those wonderful flavors, becoming tender and slightly caramelized as well—this step enhances both texture and taste.

Step 4: Season and Add Garlic

Sprinkle in the black pepper, ground caraway seeds, and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine these aromatics evenly throughout the stew. Then add your finely chopped garlic and cook until it becomes fragrant, which only takes a minute or so.

Step 5: Deglaze with Beer

Pour in the cup of Oktoberfest lager, stirring the mixture to lift any browned bits stuck to the pot. Let the beer reduce slightly for about three minutes, which concentrates the malty flavors and melds everything together.

Step 6: Add Potatoes and Stock, Then Simmer

Stir in the cubed potatoes and hot chicken stock. Bring the stew to a boil briefly, then cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar. Reduce the heat to low and allow the stew to simmer gently for 40 minutes. This slow cooking tenderizes the potatoes and deepens the stew’s flavor.

Step 7: Finish with Vinegar and Parsley

Once the simmering time has passed, turn off the heat and stir in the apple cider vinegar and chopped flat-leaf parsley. These final touches brighten the dish and add fresh herbal notes. Taste and add more salt if needed, then it’s ready to serve.

How to Serve Oktoberfest Stew Recipe

A white bowl filled with a thick stew that has visible chunks of light yellow potatoes, slices of browned sausage, and small green herb bits mixed throughout. The stew looks creamy with a slightly rough texture, and the sausage pieces are glossy and dark red-brown. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with a silver spoon to the right and two pieces of crusty bread with a light brown crust and soft white inside beside it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Oktoberfest Stew Recipe even further, sprinkle a little extra fresh parsley on top for color and freshness right before serving. A dollop of sour cream or a scattering of crispy fried onions can also add amazing texture and creaminess.

Side Dishes

This stew shines when paired with robust side dishes. Try serving it with thick slices of hearty rye bread or rustic rolls smothered in butter or cream cheese. These bready companions soak up every last drop of the flavorful broth and provide a satisfying bite alongside the stew.

Creative Ways to Present

Present your stew in large, inviting bowls that showcase the vibrant colors of the sausage, cabbage, and potatoes. For a fun Oktoberfest party vibe, serve the stew in mini cast-iron pots or mugs and garnish with pretzel sticks—inviting guests to dig right in with a touch of Bavarian charm!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Oktoberfest Stew Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so it tastes even better the next day—perfect for a quick, comforting meal.

Freezing

You can freeze the stew for longer storage by placing it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave some space at the top for expansion and thaw it gently in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

When reheating, warm the stew slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to heat evenly. Add a splash of water or stock if it feels too thick, and adjust seasonings if needed to bring it back to life.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage in this recipe?

Absolutely! While beef smoked sausage lends great richness and smokiness, you can substitute with bratwurst, kielbasa, or even a spicy chorizo for a fun twist. Just adjust cooking times as needed depending on the sausage’s fat content.

Is it necessary to use Oktoberfest lager beer?

Using a German-style Oktoberfest lager really enhances the authenticity and depth of this stew, thanks to its malt-forward, slightly sweet profile. If you can’t find it, any mild lager or amber beer will work as a good substitute.

Can this stew be made vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, swap the sausage for smoked tempeh or smoked tofu and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. Incorporate extra mushrooms or hearty root vegetables to build up the savory flavors.

What can I do if the stew is too thick?

If your stew thickens up too much after simmering or sitting overnight, simply stir in a bit more hot chicken stock or water as you reheat it to reach your desired consistency.

How can I add more vegetables to this stew?

Feel free to add diced carrots, celery, or parsnips along with the potatoes for more complexity and nutrition. Just add them in with the potatoes and stock so everything cooks evenly during the simmer.

Final Thoughts

This Oktoberfest Stew Recipe is a total crowd-pleaser that brings the festival spirit right into your kitchen with hearty, soulful flavors and inviting aromas. Whether you’re feeding family, entertaining friends, or just settling in for a cozy night, this stew promises delicious warmth and comfort in every spoonful. Give it a try—you’ll find yourself making it again and again!