Sauerkraut Casserole with Ground Beef

Variation

1. Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or pork for a lighter or richer variation.
2. Add a layer of mashed potatoes or noodles beneath the sauerkraut mixture for a heartier meal.
3. Mix in shredded Swiss or mozzarella cheese instead of cheddar for a different cheesy flavor profile.

Cooking Notes

1. For the best flavor, let the sauerkraut drain well before mixing to prevent excess liquid in the casserole.
2. Browning the beef thoroughly adds depth and richness to the overall dish.
3. Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes after baking this helps it set and makes slicing easier.

Serving Suggestions

1. Serve with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of mustard sauce on top for extra tang.
2. Pair with a side of roasted potatoes, rye bread, or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
3. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a touch of freshness and color.

Tips

• To enhance the flavor, sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika or a few caraway seeds on top before baking.
• If you like a crispier top, uncover the casserole for the last 10 minutes of baking.
• Leftovers reheat beautifully in the oven or microwave the flavors deepen the next day!

Prep Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 21 g
• Sodium: 870 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before placing it in the oven.

2. Can I freeze Sauerkraut Casserole with Ground Beef?
   Absolutely. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until warm.

3. What can I use instead of rice?
   You can substitute rice with cooked egg noodles, quinoa, or even mashed potatoes for a comforting twist.

4. How do I make it less tangy?
   Rinse the sauerkraut under cold water before adding it to the dish to reduce its sharpness without losing flavor.

Conclusion

This Hearty Sauerkraut Casserole with Ground Beef is the perfect blend of comfort and flavor tangy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying. It’s a fuss-free weeknight dinner that brings a cozy, homemade touch to your table with every bite.

Sauerkraut Casserole with Ground Beef

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• Author: Avery
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This Sauerkraut Casserole with Ground Beef is a hearty, old-fashioned comfort dish that perfectly blends tangy sauerkraut with savory beef, tender rice, and melted cheddar cheese. It’s simple, budget-friendly, and baked to bubbly perfection a meal that brings warmth and nostalgia to your dinner table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) sauerkraut, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat.
4. Stir in sauerkraut, diced tomatoes, rice, paprika, caraway seeds (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
5. Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading evenly. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and golden brown.

Notes

• For a creamier texture, mix ½ cup of sour cream or condensed cream of mushroom soup into the beef mixture before baking.
• You can substitute ground turkey or sausage for the beef for a twist in flavor.
• If you prefer extra tang, don’t rinse the sauerkraut before adding it to the casserole.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: American / German-inspired

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 portion
• Calories: 320 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 870 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 21 g
• Cholesterol: 65 mg

Keywords: sauerkraut casserole, ground beef casserole, baked rice dish, cheesy dinner