Sauerkraut Casserole
If you tend to pass on sauerkraut because of its potent flavor, this Sauerkraut Casserole just might change your mind. This dish combines savory ground beef, tender noodles, and the tangy bite of sauerkraut into a comforting casserole that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With its hearty ingredients and delightful flavors, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Combination: The mix of beef, cheese, and sauerkraut creates a unique taste that will impress your guests.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or served alongside your favorite sides, this casserole fits any occasion.
- Great for Leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully for next-day lunches or dinners, making it a practical choice.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Even those who are not fans of sauerkraut will enjoy this comforting meal.
Tools and Preparation
To make the preparation process smooth and enjoyable, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can greatly enhance your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13 baking dish
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13 baking dish: This size is perfect for holding all the delicious layers of your sauerkraut casserole.
- Skillet: Ideal for browning the beef and onions together, ensuring they are cooked properly before layering.
- Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining the tomato soup and water smoothly before pouring it over the casserole.
- Whisk: Helps achieve a lump-free sauce when mixing the soup and water.
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 ensure easy removal of the casserole once it’s baked.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture
In a skillet:
1. Add the ground beef along with diced onions.
2. Sprinkle in garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook over medium heat until browned, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Layer the Sauerkraut
In the prepared baking dish:
1. Spread out the drained sauerkraut evenly across the bottom.
2. Sprinkle brown sugar over the top of the sauerkraut layer.
Step 4: Add Noodles and Beef
On top of the sauerkraut:
1. Layer cooked wide egg noodles evenly.
2. Spoon on the browned beef mixture from the skillet.
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 entire casserole.
Step 6: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese generously over the top layer of your casserole.
Step 7: Bake
Place in preheated oven:
1. Bake for about 30-45 minutes until hot and bubbly.
2. Ensure that cheese is melted and slightly golden.
Step 8: Serve
Let stand for about 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly. Enjoy your delicious sauerkraut casserole!
How to Serve Sauerkraut Casserole
Serving sauerkraut casserole can elevate your meal experience and impress your guests. Here are some creative suggestions to enjoy this delicious dish.
Traditional Serving
- Classic Pairing: Serve with a side of crusty bread for a comforting touch.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top adds a creamy contrast to the tangy flavors.
With Greens
- Steamed Broccoli: The bright green color and crunch of broccoli complement the casserole beautifully.
- Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with vinaigrette will balance the richness of the dish.
For Special Occasions
- Festive Platter: Serve individual portions on a decorative platter for holidays or gatherings.
- Wine Pairing: Offer white wine, such as Riesling, which pairs well with the flavors in sauerkraut casserole.
How to Perfect Sauerkraut Casserole
Perfecting your sauerkraut casserole can make all the difference for flavor and texture. Here are some helpful tips.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh or high-quality canned sauerkraut enhances flavor.
- Layer Wisely: Ensure even distribution of ingredients for balanced taste in every bite.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like Gouda or Havarti for unique flavors.
- Adjust Sweetness: Modify the brown sugar amount according to your taste preference; less sugar makes it less sweet.
- Bake Until Bubbly: Ensure it’s hot and bubbly before serving for optimal texture and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Sauerkraut Casserole
Pairing side dishes with sauerkraut casserole can enhance your meal. Consider these delicious options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a satisfying combination.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts complements the savory casserole well.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw adds freshness that balances the rich flavors of the casserole.
- Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans contrasts nicely with the tanginess of sauerkraut.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread provides a delightful textural contrast to the dish’s richness.
- Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, cucumber salad offers a crisp bite alongside the hearty casserole.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a sauerkraut casserole, it’s easy to overlook some important details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the draining step: Not draining the sauerkraut can lead to a soggy casserole. Always drain it well before layering.
- Overcooking the beef: Cooking the beef too long can make it tough. Brown it until just cooked through, as it will finish cooking in the oven.
- Neglecting seasoning: Insufficient seasoning can result in bland flavors. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
- Incorrect noodle cooking: If you don’t cook the egg noodles properly, they may become mushy. Follow package instructions and slightly undercook them for best texture.
- Forgetting to let it rest: Cutting into the casserole immediately can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to rest for at least 5 minutes before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The sauerkraut casserole can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Sauerkraut Casserole
- Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil.
- It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Sauerkraut Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish, covered, for about 3-5 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about sauerkraut casserole.
Can I use different meats in my Sauerkraut Casserole?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works well as alternatives to beef, providing a lighter option.
How do I make a vegetarian version of Sauerkraut Casserole?
You can replace ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or lentils for protein. Adjust seasonings accordingly.
What can I serve with Sauerkraut Casserole?
This dish pairs nicely with crusty bread or a side salad. Add some applesauce for a sweet contrast!
How should I store leftover Sauerkraut Casserole?
Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to four days.
Final Thoughts
Sauerkraut casserole is a comforting dish that combines hearty ingredients into one delicious meal. The flavors meld beautifully, making it perfect for family dinners or potlucks. You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices, ensuring everyone enjoys their meal!
Sauerkraut Casserole
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8
Description
Sauerkraut Casserole is a heartwarming dish that combines tender noodles, savory ground beef, and zesty sauerkraut into a single delightful casserole. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort. The unique flavor profile of sauerkraut paired with the richness of cheese and beef creates a satisfying experience that even those unfamiliar with sauerkraut will enjoy. Plus, it’s an excellent option for leftovers, making it a practical choice for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 onion (diced)
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- In a skillet, cook ground beef and diced onion until browned; season with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and parsley.
- Spread drained sauerkraut in the baking dish; top with brown sugar.
- Layer cooked egg noodles over the sauerkraut followed by the beef mixture.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together tomato soup and water; pour over casserole.
- Top with shredded Swiss cheese.
- Bake for 30-45 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
