1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. Remove sausage from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent and soft. This is where the flavors start to build up.
3. Into your slow cooker, layer half of the cubed potatoes, followed by half of the sauerkraut, and then half of the cooked sausage. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, sauerkraut, and sausage. Sprinkle the caraway seeds over the top if using.
4. Pour the chicken broth over the layers in the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
6. In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese over the top and let it melt.
7. Serve warm, straight from the slow cooker, and watch as it brings comfort and smiles to your table.
