Sauerkraut Casserole
This easy Sauerkraut Casserole recipe combines tangy sauerkraut, savory meats, and creamy cheese with a crispy topping for a comforting and hearty meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish balances bold flavors and textures with simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it both versatile and family-friendly.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
- 1 pound cooked sausage or ham, chopped
- 3 cups cooked potatoes (diced) or cooked egg noodles
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sour cream or cream cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (such as sharp cheddar, Swiss, or Gruyere)
Topping
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers (gluten-free if needed)
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper or sliced jalapeños (for spicy variation)
Optional Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers or carrots
- Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
- Prepare the Ingredients: Drain and rinse the sauerkraut thoroughly to reduce excess acidity. Cook and brown your choice of sausage or ham in a skillet until fragrant. Boil potatoes or egg noodles until tender; drain well. Chop onions and mince garlic for sautéing.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute to build a flavorful base.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage or ham, drained sauerkraut, sautéed onions and garlic, and cooked potatoes or noodles. Stir in sour cream or cream cheese along with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings such as cayenne pepper if using.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the combined mixture into a greased casserole dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese on top, followed by the breadcrumb or crushed cracker topping mixed with melted butter.
- Bake until Golden: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Let the casserole rest a few minutes before serving for the best texture.
Notes
- Drain the sauerkraut well to avoid a soggy casserole.
- Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and smoother topping.
- Work in batches when browning meat or sautéing onions to ensure even cooking.
- Season in layers by tasting and adjusting salt and pepper throughout preparation.
- Let the casserole rest before serving to firm up and allow easier slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
Keywords: sauerkraut casserole, easy casserole, sauerkraut recipe, comfort food, weeknight dinner, gluten free casserole, savory casserole