Savory Delight: Sauerkraut Casserole Recipe
Experience the comforting embrace of hearty flavors with our Sauerkraut Casserole recipe. A fusion of savory ground beef, tangy sauerkraut, and gooey Swiss cheese, this dish is a celebration of home-cooked goodness. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering, this casserole is sure to steal the spotlight and leave everyone craving for more.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 medium white onion, chopped
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 2 cans (10.75 oz) tomato soup
- 1 can (10.75 oz) warm water
- 1 package wide egg noodles
- 2 cans (14 oz) sauerkraut, drained very well
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
- Salt & Pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat.
- Season Beef Mixture: Stir in the garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper, ensuring the beef mixture is evenly seasoned.
- Prepare Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together the tomato soup and warm water until well combined.
- Layer the Casserole: Arrange half of the cooked egg noodles in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the sauerkraut, followed by half of the ground beef mixture. Sprinkle half of the brown sugar over the beef layer. Repeat the layers with the remaining noodles, sauerkraut, beef mixture, and brown sugar.
- Pour Sauce: Pour the tomato soup mixture evenly over the layered casserole.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this delicious dish.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or diced mushrooms for a vegetarian version of this casserole.
- Sauerkraut Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of sauerkraut, you can replace it with shredded cabbage or thinly sliced bell peppers for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese Variation: Experiment with different types of cheese such as cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone to customize the taste of your casserole.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, we’ve adapted this Sauerkraut Casserole recipe to suit your dietary needs:
- Keto Version: Substitute the tomato soup with a low-carb tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes seasoned with Italian herbs. Replace the brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia.
- Low Carb Version: Use shirataki noodles or spiralized vegetables such as zucchini or spaghetti squash in place of traditional egg noodles. Opt for a reduced-sugar or sugar-free tomato soup to lower the carb content of the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I prepare this casserole in advance? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just remember to adjust the baking time if baking from chilled.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Absolutely! Allow the casserole to cool completely, then portion it into individual servings and freeze them in airtight containers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven or microwave.
Q: What can I serve with this casserole? A: This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread or garlic bread for a heartier option.
With its comforting blend of savory flavors and satisfying textures, our Sauerkraut Casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings, this recipe delivers on both taste and simplicity. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor the wholesome goodness of this delicious casserole.
