Sauerkraut Casserole
If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting dish, this sauerkraut casserole is the perfect choice. Combining ground beef with flavorful sauerkraut and creamy Swiss cheese, this casserole is ideal for family dinners or potlucks. Its unique blend of ingredients creates a savory flavor that will appeal to everyone, even those who usually shy away from sauerkraut. Easy to prepare and packed with deliciousness, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: This casserole comes together quickly, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Delight: The combination of beef, sauerkraut, and cheese creates a rich and satisfying taste.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or side dish, it fits well with various meal plans and occasions.
- Great for Leftovers: This casserole stores well, so you can enjoy it again the next day!
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its unique flavors, it’s likely to impress friends and family at gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gathering your tools will make things easier. Here’s what you’ll need.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- 9×13 baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: Essential for browning the beef evenly and infusing it with flavor.
- 9×13 Baking Dish: Perfect size for layering the casserole ingredients without overflow.
- Mixing Bowl: Useful for combining sauces smoothly before pouring over the layers.
- Whisk: Ensures there are no lumps in your sauce mixture.
Ingredients
If you tend to pass on sauerkraut because of its potent flavor, this sauerkraut casserole just might change your mind.
Ingredients:
– 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 with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture
In a skillet over medium heat:
1. Add the ground beef along with diced onion.
2. Sprinkle in garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook until the beef is browned and onions are translucent.
Step 3: Layer the Sauerkraut
In the greased baking dish:
1. Spread an even layer of drained sauerkraut on the bottom.
2. Evenly sprinkle brown sugar over the sauerkraut.
Step 4: Add Noodles and Beef
- Top the sauerkraut layer with cooked wide egg noodles.
- Follow with an even layer of the 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 casserole.
Step 6: Add Cheese Topping
Sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese generously over the top of the casserole.
Step 7: Bake Your Casserole
Place the baking dish in preheated oven:
1. Bake for about 30-45 minutes until hot, bubbly, and cheese is melted.
Step 8: Serve
Allow it to stand for about five minutes before serving for easier slicing. Enjoy your delicious sauerkraut casserole!
How to Serve Sauerkraut Casserole
Serving sauerkraut casserole is simple and versatile. This hearty dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes, making it perfect for any occasion.
Classic Garnish
- Chopped Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a splash of color and flavor.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream offers a creamy contrast to the tangy casserole.
Pair with Bread
- Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- Garlic Bread: Garlic bread adds a flavorful twist to your meal.
Add a Side Salad
- Green Salad: A simple green salad provides a refreshing crunch alongside the warm casserole.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw complements the flavors of sauerkraut nicely.
Enjoy with Pickles
- Dill Pickles: The acidity of dill pickles enhances the taste of the casserole.
- Pickled Vegetables: Mixed pickled vegetables can add an interesting texture and flavor contrast.
How to Perfect Sauerkraut Casserole
To create a perfect sauerkraut casserole, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh ground beef and high-quality sauerkraut can elevate your casserole’s taste.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; adjust salt, pepper, and herbs to suit your preferences.
- Layer Carefully: Proper layering helps each ingredient maintain its flavor while baking.
- Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for 5 minutes after baking. This helps set the layers for easier serving.
Best Side Dishes for Sauerkraut Casserole
Pairing side dishes with your sauerkraut casserole can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a healthy and colorful addition.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the dish beautifully and soak up flavors.
- Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans offer a nutritious and fresh side.
- Potato Salad: A cold potato salad adds a nice contrast in temperature and texture.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread balances the tanginess of the sauerkraut perfectly.
- Apple Sauce: Sweet apple sauce can serve as a delightful contrast to savory flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many home cooks make simple errors when preparing a sauerkraut casserole. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Neglecting the Drainage: Failing to drain the sauerkraut can lead to a watery casserole. Always drain it well to keep the texture just right.
- Overcooking Noodles: Cooking the egg noodles too long can make them mushy. Cook them according to package instructions but slightly undercook them since they will bake in the casserole.
- Skipping Seasoning: Forgetting to season the meat mix can result in bland flavors. Be generous with salt, pepper, and spices for a more flavorful dish.
- Ignoring Cheese Quality: Using low-quality cheese may affect the taste and meltability of your casserole. Opt for fresh Swiss cheese for the best results.
- Not Letting it Rest: Cutting into the casserole immediately after baking can make it fall apart. Allow it to sit for 5 minutes before serving for better presentation.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Sauerkraut Casserole
- Use freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly with plastic wrap.
- Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Sauerkraut Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making this sauerkraut casserole, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.
Can I substitute ground beef in Sauerkraut Casserole?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken as a healthier alternative. This will still give you a delicious flavor.
How do I enhance flavors in my Sauerkraut Casserole?
Consider adding spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for a little kick. Fresh herbs like thyme or dill can also elevate the dish.
Is Sauerkraut Casserole suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This casserole keeps well and is perfect for meal prepping. It reheats easily and tastes great even after a few days.
Can I add vegetables to my Sauerkraut Casserole?
Definitely! Chopped bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms would add nutritional value and flavor without overpowering the dish.
Final Thoughts
This sauerkraut casserole is not only comforting but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can easily customize it by adding different proteins or vegetables based on your preference. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Sauerkraut Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves about 8
Description
If you’re in search of a filling and satisfying dish that brings comfort to the dinner table, look no further than this sauerkraut casserole. This delightful recipe combines ground beef, savory sauerkraut, and creamy Swiss cheese for a hearty meal that everyone will love, even those who might typically shy away from sauerkraut. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this casserole is both easy to prepare and packed with flavor. With its unique ingredients and effortless cooking method, it’s destined to become a go-to favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 onion (diced)
- 8 oz wide egg noodles (cooked)
- 2 cans sauerkraut (14 oz each, drained)
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cans tomato soup (10.75 oz each)
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
- Seasonings: garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with diced onion and seasonings until cooked through.
- Layer drained sauerkraut in the baking dish followed by brown sugar.
- Add cooked egg noodles on top of the sauerkraut, then layer with the beef mixture.
- In a bowl, mix tomato soup with water and pour over the casserole layers.
- Top with shredded Swiss cheese.
- Bake for 30-45 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 385
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
