Sauerkraut Casserole
If you tend to pass on sauerkraut because of its potent flavor, this sauerkraut casserole just might change your mind. This hearty dish combines the tangy taste of sauerkraut with savory ground beef and creamy cheese, making it perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Its layered structure creates a delightful blend of flavors that are sure to impress. Enjoy the satisfaction of a comforting meal that is easy to prepare and a joy to share.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of sauerkraut, beef, and Swiss cheese creates a unique and satisfying taste.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this casserole can be assembled quickly and baked with minimal fuss.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course for dinner or a side dish for gatherings, it fits various occasions.
- Feeds a Crowd: Serving up to eight people, it’s ideal for family meals or entertaining guests without breaking the bank.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare it in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake, saving time on busy days.
Tools and Preparation
To make this sauerkraut casserole, you’ll need some essential tools and equipment that will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- 9×13 baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Ideal for browning the beef evenly while allowing space for adding onions and spices.
- 9×13 baking dish: Perfect size for layering ingredients and ensuring even cooking throughout the casserole.
- Mixing bowl: Helps to whisk together ingredients like tomato soup and water smoothly before pouring them into the dish.
Ingredients
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 to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Add the ground beef along with the diced onion.
2. Sprinkle in garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through.
Step 3: Layer with Sauerkraut
In the greased baking dish:
1. Layer the drained sauerkraut evenly across the bottom.
2. Sprinkle brown sugar over the top of the sauerkraut for added sweetness.
Step 4: Add Egg Noodles
Place the cooked wide egg noodles on top of the sauerkraut layer evenly.
Step 5: Add Beef Mixture
Spread the browned beef mixture over the egg noodles evenly, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Step 6: Combine Tomato Soup
In a mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together tomato soup and water until smooth.
2. Pour this mixture evenly over the entire casserole.
Step 7: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese generously across the top of your casserole.
Step 8: Bake
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven:
1. Bake for 30-45 minutes until hot, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
2. Let stand for about 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
How to Serve Sauerkraut Casserole
Serving sauerkraut casserole is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with the right accompaniments. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
Pair with Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic flavor complements the savory notes of the casserole.
Add a Salad
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a nice crunch and balances the flavors perfectly.
Serve with Pickles
- Dill Pickles: Their acidity cuts through the richness, enhancing each bite of casserole.
- Pickled Red Onions: These add color and a sweet-tart flavor that pairs well with sauerkraut.
Incorporate Applesauce
- Homemade Applesauce: A side of unsweetened applesauce offers a nice sweetness that complements the dish.
How to Perfect Sauerkraut Casserole
To make your sauerkraut casserole even better, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh ground beef and quality sauerkraut can significantly improve flavor.
- Don’t Skip Draining: Ensure you drain the sauerkraut well to avoid excess moisture in your casserole.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for varied flavors.
- Layer Thoughtfully: Layering ingredients properly creates balanced bites throughout the dish.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper to suit your palate.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the casserole to rest before serving helps flavors meld together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Sauerkraut Casserole
Enhance your meal with these delicious side dishes that pair wonderfully with sauerkraut casserole.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil add nutrition and vibrant colors.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and absorb sauce beautifully.
- Steamed Green Beans: Fresh green beans add a crunchy texture and bright color to your plate.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to the savory casserole flavors.
- Potato Salad: A cold potato salad brings a refreshing element that’s perfect for summer meals.
- Apple Salad: Chopped apples, walnuts, and greens create a crisp side that complements the dish’s heartiness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Sauerkraut Casserole, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overcooking the beef: This can lead to dry meat. Cook just until browned.
- Skipping the draining step: Not draining the sauerkraut can result in a watery casserole. Make sure to drain it thoroughly.
- Using low-quality cheese: This affects melting and flavor. Opt for good-quality Swiss cheese for the best results.
- Ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your casserole bland. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Not letting it rest: Cutting into the casserole too soon can cause it to fall apart. Let it stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Sauerkraut Casserole
- Place in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with foil.
- It 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 in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm on low heat, stirring frequently to avoid sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sauerkraut Casserole?
Sauerkraut Casserole is a savory dish made with ground beef, noodles, sauerkraut, and cheese baked together for a warm and hearty meal.
Can I use different types of meat?
Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option while still enjoying this delicious casserole.
How do I customize my Sauerkraut Casserole?
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble it a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking.
Final Thoughts
This Sauerkraut Casserole is not only comforting but also versatile. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients to make it your own!
Sauerkraut Casserole
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 8 people 1x
Description
Introducing our Sauerkraut Casserole, a delicious and hearty dish that will transform your perception of sauerkraut! This comforting casserole combines the tangy flavor of sauerkraut with savory ground beef, creamy Swiss cheese, and fluffy egg noodles, creating a satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With its easy preparation and the ability to feed a crowd, this dish is not only budget-friendly but also delightful for sharing. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something special for a potluck, this sauerkraut casserole is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 onion (diced)
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 8 oz wide egg noodles (cooked)
- 2 cans sauerkraut (drained)
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cans tomato soup
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with diced onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until cooked through.
- Layer the drained sauerkraut in the baking dish and sprinkle with brown sugar.
- Add the cooked egg noodles on top of the sauerkraut.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly over the noodles.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together tomato soup and water; pour over the casserole.
- Top with shredded Swiss cheese.
- Bake for 30-45 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 250g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
