If you tend to pass on sauerkraut because of its potent flavor, this sauerkraut casserole just might change your mind. This comforting dish combines savory ground beef and creamy Swiss cheese with the tangy goodness of sauerkraut, resulting in a hearty meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It’s a unique way to enjoy sauerkraut, making it an excellent choice for various occasions.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful Combination: The blend of beef, cheese, and sauerkraut creates a rich and satisfying taste that will delight your palate.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or side; it pairs well with salads or crusty bread.
Great for Meal Prep: This casserole keeps well in the fridge and can be easily reheated, making it ideal for leftovers.
Family-Friendly: Even those who are hesitant about sauerkraut may find themselves loving this dish!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, gather these essential tools. Having the right equipment helps ensure everything goes according to plan.

Essential Tools and Equipment

9×13 baking dish
Skillet
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Cooking spoon

Importance of Each Tool

9×13 baking dish: The perfect size for assembling and baking the casserole evenly.
Skillet: Ideal for browning ground beef and combining flavors effectively.
Mixing bowl: Necessary for whisking together liquids smoothly before adding to the casserole.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious sauerkraut casserole:

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 the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Meat Mixture

In a skillet over medium heat:
1. Add the ground beef and diced onions.
2. Season with garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook until browned, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

In your greased baking dish:
1. Spread out the drained sauerkraut evenly across the bottom.
2. Sprinkle brown sugar over the sauerkraut.

Step 4: Add Noodles and Beef

Top the sauerkraut layer with:
1. The cooked egg noodles.
2. Followed by the browned beef mixture.

Step 5: Prepare Tomato Sauce

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine tomato soup with water.
2. Whisk until smooth, then pour over the layered casserole.

Step 6: Add Cheese Topping

Evenly sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese on top of everything in the baking dish.

Step 7: Bake

Place in your preheated oven:
1. Bake for about 30–45 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
2. Make sure the cheese is melted.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Let stand for about five minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.

This sauerkraut casserole is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!

How to Serve Sauerkraut Casserole

This sauerkraut casserole is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking to keep it simple or dress it up for a special occasion, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal.

Pair with Fresh Bread

Crusty Baguette – A warm baguette is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Garlic Bread – Adds a flavorful twist that complements the casserole’s richness.

Add a Salad

Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette balances the hearty flavors of the casserole.
Coleslaw – Crunchy and tangy, coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast.

Serve with Pickles

Dill Pickles – Their sharpness pairs nicely with the savory notes of the casserole.
Pickled Vegetables – A variety of pickled veggies can add extra crunch and zest.

Enjoy with Applesauce

Sweet Applesauce – The sweetness of applesauce contrasts well with the savory flavors of sauerkraut.

How to Perfect Sauerkraut Casserole

To elevate your sauerkraut casserole, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure a delightful and satisfying dish every time you make it.

Choose Quality Ingredients – Use fresh ground beef and high-quality sauerkraut for the best flavor.
Layer Properly – Layer your ingredients thoughtfully to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
Adjust Seasoning – Taste as you go! Adding more salt or spices can enhance the overall taste.
Let It Rest – Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking helps it set and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Sauerkraut Casserole

Complement your sauerkraut casserole with these delicious side dishes. Each option adds its unique flair to your meal.

Roasted Vegetables – Toss seasonal veggies in olive oil and roast until tender for a colorful side.
Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing that pairs well with rich casseroles.
Cornbread – Slightly sweet cornbread balances the acidity of sauerkraut beautifully.
Steamed Green Beans – Lightly steamed green beans add freshness and crunch to your plate.
Potato Salad – A creamy potato salad offers comfort alongside the casserole’s heartiness.
Macaroni Salad – This cool, creamy side contrasts nicely with hot casseroles, creating delightful textures.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making sauerkraut casserole, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are common mistakes you should avoid.

Overcooking the noodles: If you cook the egg noodles too long before baking, they may become mushy. Cook them just until al dente for the best texture.
Skipping the draining step: Not draining the sauerkraut can result in a watery casserole. Always drain it well to maintain the right consistency.
Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season your beef mixture might leave your casserole bland. Be sure to taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
Wrong cheese choice: Using a cheese that doesn’t melt well can ruin the dish. Stick with Swiss cheese for a creamy and delicious topping.
Not letting it rest: Cutting into your casserole immediately after baking can lead to a mess. Allow it to stand for 5 minutes before serving to set.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Sauerkraut Casserole

Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty foil.
Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Sauerkraut Casserole

Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warm throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about sauerkraut casserole.

What is Sauerkraut Casserole?

Sauerkraut casserole is a hearty dish made with layers of ground beef, noodles, sauerkraut, and cheese. It’s comfort food at its finest!

Can I use different types of meat in Sauerkraut Casserole?

Yes! Ground turkey or sausage can be good substitutes if you prefer something lighter or with added flavor.

How can I customize my Sauerkraut Casserole?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. You can also experiment with different types of cheese for unique flavors.

Is Sauerkraut Casserole healthy?

While it’s comfort food, using lean meat and adding veggies can make it healthier without sacrificing taste.

Final Thoughts

Sauerkraut casserole is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that brings warmth to any dinner table. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Give this comforting dish a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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Sauerkraut Casserole

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Author: Jessica
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Sauerkraut Casserole, a delightful dish that combines savory ground beef, creamy Swiss cheese, and the tangy goodness of sauerkraut. This hearty casserole is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a unique twist on traditional comfort food. With its rich taste and satisfying texture, it’s sure to win over even those who are hesitant about sauerkraut. Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep, Sauerkraut Casserole makes for an ideal weeknight dinner that can be enjoyed as leftovers too.

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs ground beef
1 onion (diced)
8 oz wide egg noodles (cooked)
2 cans (14 oz each) sauerkraut (drained)
3/4 cup brown sugar
2 cans (10.75 oz each) tomato soup
2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
Garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with diced onions and seasonings.
Layer drained sauerkraut in the baking dish, followed by brown sugar.
Add cooked egg noodles on top, then spread the beef mixture evenly.
In a bowl, mix tomato soup with water and pour over layers.
Top with shredded Swiss cheese.
Bake for 30–45 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted.
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Baking
Cuisine: German