Sauerkraut Casserole
If you tend to pass on sauerkraut because of its potent flavor, this sauerkraut casserole just might change your mind. This unique dish combines the tangy goodness of sauerkraut with comforting ingredients like ground beef and cheese, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or potlucks. The layers of flavor will surprise even the most skeptical eaters, and it’s an easy recipe that fits various occasions, from casual weeknight meals to holiday gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The hearty beef and creamy cheese balance the tanginess of the sauerkraut, creating a delightful taste that everyone will enjoy.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this casserole comes together quickly—perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main dish or pair it with a side salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Great for Meal Prep: This recipe is perfect for leftovers; it tastes even better the next day!
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, this dish satisfies both meat lovers and those looking to try something new.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making your sauerkraut casserole, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will help streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13 baking dish
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Cooking spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13 baking dish: This size is perfect for layering all the ingredients evenly, ensuring even cooking throughout.
- Skillet: A good skillet is essential for browning the ground beef and combining flavors effectively.
- Mixing bowl: Useful for whisking together the tomato soup and water smoothly before pouring over the casserole.
Ingredients
For this delicious sauerkraut casserole, you’ll need:
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 onion (diced)
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz wide egg noodles (cooked per package)
- 2 14 oz cans sauerkraut, drained well
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 10.75 oz cans tomato soup
- 1 10.75 oz can water
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
How to Make Sauerkraut Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture
In a skillet over medium heat:
1. Brown the ground beef along with diced onions.
2. Add garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper to taste.
3. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are tender.
Step 3: Layer the Sauerkraut
In your greased baking dish:
1. Spread out the drained sauerkraut evenly across the bottom.
2. Sprinkle brown sugar over the top for a touch of sweetness.
Step 4: Add Noodles and Beef
Layer on top of the sauerkraut:
1. Place cooked wide egg noodles evenly over the sauerkraut.
2. Follow with an even layer of your cooked beef mixture.
Step 5: Prepare Tomato Sauce
In a mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together tomato soup and water until smooth.
2. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in your baking dish.
Step 6: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese generously over everything in the dish.
Step 7: Bake
Place in preheated oven:
– Bake for about 30-45 minutes until hot, bubbly, and cheese is melted.
Step 8: Serve
Let stand for about 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
Enjoy your comforting sauerkraut casserole, sure to delight everyone at your table!
How to Serve Sauerkraut Casserole
Sauerkraut casserole is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate the meal, there are plenty of serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
Pair with Fresh Bread
- Crusty Bread – Serve warm, crusty bread on the side for dipping into the delicious sauce.
- Garlic Bread – Add a bit of flavor by serving garlic bread, which complements the casserole nicely.
Add a Salad
- Green Salad – A light green salad with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the casserole.
- Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, making for a delightful contrast.
Include Pickles or Relish
- Dill Pickles – The acidity from dill pickles cuts through the richness, enhancing each bite.
- Relish Tray – Create a small relish tray with assorted pickled vegetables for variety.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- Parsley Garnish – Sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
- Chives – Chopped chives add a mild onion flavor that pairs well with the cheese and meat.
How to Perfect Sauerkraut Casserole
To make your sauerkraut casserole even better, follow these helpful tips for perfecting every bite.
- Use Quality Ingredients – Choose high-quality ground beef and fresh sauerkraut for the best flavor.
- Don’t Overcook Noodles – Cook egg noodles just until al dente; they will continue to cook in the oven.
- Layer Wisely – Layering ingredients in the right order helps achieve an even distribution of flavors throughout.
- Adjust Seasoning – Taste as you go; feel free to adjust salt, pepper, or brown sugar levels based on preference.
- Let It Rest – Allow the casserole to sit for 5 minutes after baking; this helps it set up and makes serving easier.
Best Side Dishes for Sauerkraut Casserole
When serving sauerkraut casserole, it’s great to have complementary side dishes that round out the meal. Here are some fantastic options:
- Steamed Vegetables – Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans provide color and nutrition alongside the rich casserole.
- Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes are always a hit and can soak up any extra sauce from the casserole.
- Roasted Carrots – Sweet roasted carrots add a lovely caramelized flavor that pairs beautifully with sauerkraut.
- Cornbread – A slice of cornbread offers a sweet contrast that balances out the tanginess of sauerkraut.
- Potato Salad – A chilled potato salad can serve as a refreshing side dish on warm days.
- Baked Beans – The sweetness of baked beans complements savory dishes like sauerkraut casserole perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your sauerkraut casserole, avoiding common mistakes can make a big difference in taste and texture. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:
- Using unseasoned beef: Always season your ground beef well with salt and pepper. This enhances the overall flavor of the casserole.
- Neglecting to drain the sauerkraut: Failing to drain can lead to a watery casserole. Make sure to drain your sauerkraut thoroughly before adding it to the dish.
- Overcooking the egg noodles: If you overcook the noodles, they can become mushy. Cook them just until al dente for the best texture.
- Skipping the resting time: Allowing the casserole to sit for 5 minutes after baking lets it set properly. Skipping this step may cause it to fall apart when serving.
- Not adjusting sweetness level: The amount of brown sugar can be modified based on your taste preference. Start with less if you’re unsure, then add more if needed.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Ensure it has cooled completely before refrigerating.
Freezing Sauerkraut Casserole
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Label with date and contents for easy identification.
Reheating Sauerkraut Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making sauerkraut casserole, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:
Can I use different meats in my sauerkraut casserole?
Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option or even use sausage for added flavor.
What side dishes pair well with sauerkraut casserole?
Consider serving it with crusty bread or a light salad for a balanced meal.
How long does sauerkraut casserole last?
In the fridge, it lasts about three days; if frozen, up to three months.
Can I prepare sauerkraut casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble it a day before and bake it just before serving.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, this recipe freezes well! Just ensure it’s stored correctly in an airtight container.
Final Thoughts
This sauerkraut casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. It’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home. Try this recipe today and enjoy its comforting flavors!
Sauerkraut Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
This sauerkraut casserole is a delightful combination of tangy sauerkraut, savory ground beef, and creamy Swiss cheese, creating a comforting dish that will win over even the most hesitant eaters. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this easy-to-make casserole layers flavors effortlessly while offering a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a hearty dish that tastes even better as leftovers. Whether served with crusty bread or a fresh salad, this casserole is sure to become a favorite at your table.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 onion (diced)
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 cans (14 oz) sauerkraut (drained)
- 8 oz wide egg noodles (cooked)
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cans (10.75 oz) tomato soup
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef with diced onions. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread drained sauerkraut in the bottom of the baking dish and sprinkle brown sugar on top.
- Layer cooked egg noodles over the sauerkraut followed by the beef mixture.
- In a bowl, whisk together tomato soup and water; pour over layers.
- Top with shredded Swiss cheese.
- Bake for 30-45 minutes until hot and bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (200g)
- Calories: 485
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
