Sauerkraut Casserole

This Sauerkraut Casserole is a savory, hearty dish that combines the bold flavors of sauerkraut with ground beef, egg noodles, and a rich tomato sauce, all topped with melted Swiss cheese. Perfect for family dinners or a satisfying weeknight meal, this dish is a unique twist on comfort food that will have even the pickiest eaters asking for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Sauerkraut Casserole brings together a flavorful mix of ingredients that complement each other perfectly. The tanginess of the sauerkraut pairs beautifully with the savory ground beef and creamy Swiss cheese, while the sweetness of brown sugar helps balance the flavors. The egg noodles add a comforting texture to this hearty casserole, making it a filling dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Simple to make and full of flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 lbs ground beef

• 1 onion, diced

• 2 tsp garlic powder

• 8 oz wide egg noodles, cooked

• 2 (14 oz) cans sauerkraut, drained

• 3/4 cup brown sugar

• 2 cans (10.75 oz each) tomato soup

• 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the Ground Beef:
   In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with the diced onion and garlic powder over medium heat until fully cooked.

3. Layer the Ingredients:
   Spread the drained sauerkraut evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the brown sugar on top of the sauerkraut. Next, layer the cooked egg noodles over the sauerkraut, followed by the beef mixture.

4. Prepare the Sauce:
   In a bowl, whisk together the tomato soup and a little water. Pour the soup mixture evenly over the layered ingredients.

5. Add the Cheese:
   Top the casserole with the shredded Swiss cheese.

6. Bake the Casserole:
   Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-45 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden.

7. Serve:
   Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes approximately 8 servings.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 45 minutes

Storage/Reheating

• Storage:
  Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating:
  To reheat, simply place the casserole in the microwave or in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the Swiss cheese with other cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses, depending on your preference.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or add extra vegetables like mushrooms or lentils to make it vegetarian.

4. Can I use fresh sauerkraut instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh sauerkraut, but make sure to drain it well before adding it to the casserole.

5. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze this casserole for up to 2 months. Be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes.

6. Can I use gluten-free noodles?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

7. Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

9. What should I serve with this casserole?

This casserole is hearty on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

10. Can I double the recipe for a larger group?

Yes, you can easily double the ingredients and bake in a larger dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

Conclusion

This Sauerkraut Casserole is a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. It’s a comforting, easy-to-make meal that will please the entire family. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or bringing it to a potluck, it’s bound to become a favorite in your meal rotation. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is sure to impress!