Amazing Sauerkraut Casserole: 15 Min Prep

Name: Amazing Sauerkraut Casserole: 15 Min Prep
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: German
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

by Fenna Saul

July 23, 2025

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Sauerkraut Casserole has a special place in my heart, and I think it will in yours too! This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate, especially when the weather turns chilly. I remember the first time I tried it – the savory ground beef, the tangy sauerkraut, and the gooey Swiss cheese all melded together into something truly magical. It’s such an easy ground beef casserole to pull together, making it a lifesaver on busy weeknights. If you’re looking for a delicious way to use up sauerkraut, this recipe for a classic German sauerkraut casserole is what you need. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Sauerkraut Casserole

This isn’t just another casserole; it’s a flavor explosion that’s incredibly simple to make!

Amazing Taste: A perfect balance of savory beef, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy Swiss cheese that’s utterly delicious.
Quick Prep: With only 15 minutes of prep, this dish is a lifesaver for busy weeknights.
Budget-Friendly: Uses common, affordable ingredients, making it a great option for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike rave about this hearty comfort food.
Versatile: This Swiss cheese casserole works beautifully as a main course or a crowd-pleasing side dish.
Simple Ingredients: No fancy items needed – just wholesome goodness.
Remarkable Swiss Cheese Flavor: The melted Swiss cheese casserole topping adds a nutty depth that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients for Sauerkraut Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful main dish recipe. Gathering these ingredients is the first step to a truly satisfying meal.

2 lbs ground beef – this forms the hearty base of our casserole
1 onion, diced – adds a sweet aromatic flavor when cooked
2 tsp garlic powder – for that essential savory punch
2 tsp dried parsley – brings a touch of freshness
Salt and pepper to taste – to perfectly season every bite
8 oz wide egg noodles, cooked per package directions – the perfect vehicle for all those delicious flavors
2 (14 oz) cans sauerkraut, drained well – the star that gives this dish its signature tang; draining well is key to avoid sogginess
3/4 cup brown sugar – balances the sauerkraut’s tartness with a touch of sweetness
2 (10.75 oz) cans tomato soup – creates a rich, savory sauce
1 (10.75 oz) can water – to thin the tomato soup for the perfect sauce consistency
2 cups shredded Swiss cheese – for that gooey, melted topping we all love

How to Make Sauerkraut Casserole

Get ready to create a truly comforting dish that’s surprisingly simple. This recipe transforms humble ingredients into a flavorful German-inspired meal that feels like pure comfort food.

Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, take a moment to grease a standard 9×13 baking dish. This prevents any sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: In a large skillet, add your ground beef and diced onion. Cook over medium heat, breaking up the beef as it browns. Stir in the garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and the onions are soft and fragrant, about 8-10 minutes. This savory base is essential for our casserole.
Step 3: Now, it’s time for the sauerkraut. Carefully spread the well-drained sauerkraut evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the sauerkraut layer. The sweetness will beautifully balance the tanginess of the sauerkraut, a key element of this comfort food.
Step 4: Next, layer the cooked wide egg noodles over the sauerkraut. Make sure they are spread out evenly. Then, carefully spoon the browned beef and onion mixture on top of the noodles. The layers are starting to build that amazing depth of flavor!
Step 5: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the two cans of tomato soup and the can of water until you have a smooth, creamy sauce. Pour this sauce evenly over all the layers in the baking dish. The aroma starting to fill your kitchen is a sure sign of deliciousness to come.
Step 6: Generously sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese over the entire top of the casserole. You want a good, even layer so it melts into a bubbly, golden blanket.
Step 7: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 30 to 45 minutes. You’re looking for the casserole to be bubbling around the edges and the cheese to be beautifully melted and lightly golden. This baking time ensures everything is heated through and the flavors meld, creating true comfort food magic.
Step 8: Once baked, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Let the Sauerkraut Casserole stand for about five minutes before serving. This brief rest allows the layers to set slightly, making it easier to serve and preventing it from being too soupy.

Amazing Sauerkraut Casserole: 15 Min Prep - Sauerkraut Casserole - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best Sauerkraut Casserole

Want to elevate your Sauerkraut Casserole game? These little tricks guarantee a delicious outcome every single time.

Drain that sauerkraut thoroughly! Seriously, squeeze out as much liquid as you can. Waterlogged sauerkraut is the enemy of a good casserole texture.
Don’t skimp on the brown sugar. That touch of sweetness is crucial for balancing the sauerkraut’s tang. It’s a flavor harmony you won’t regret.
Pre-cook your egg noodles al dente. They’ll continue to cook in the oven, and you don’t want them to turn mushy.
Let it rest! That five-minute resting period after baking is vital for the casserole to set up properly.

What’s the secret to perfect Sauerkraut Casserole?

The real secret to a perfect Sauerkraut Casserole lies in the balance of sweet and tangy. Draining the sauerkraut very well and then adding just the right amount of brown sugar is key. It makes this dish a winner for any family dinner. For more family-friendly meals, check out our recipes.

Can I make Sauerkraut Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole (up to the cheese topping) up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add the cheese and bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time since it will be cold.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Sauerkraut Casserole?

The most common pitfall is not draining the sauerkraut enough, leading to a watery result. Also, be careful not to overcook the egg noodles initially. Finally, ensure your oven is properly preheated to the correct temperature for even baking. For more tips on baking, you can refer to King Arthur Baking.

Best Ways to Serve Sauerkraut Casserole

This hearty Sauerkraut Casserole is a star on its own, but pairing it with the right sides makes it a complete meal. It’s a fantastic potluck recipe that always gets rave reviews.

Serve with a fresh green salad: A crisp, simple side salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the casserole beautifully. Think mixed greens, cucumber, and a tangy dressing.
Pair with crusty bread: A warm, crusty baguette or rye bread is perfect for soaking up any extra savory sauce from the dish.
Complement with a simple vegetable: Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli make for a healthy and colorful addition that balances the flavors and textures. For a similar vegetable side, try our crispy roasted cauliflower.

Amazing Sauerkraut Casserole: 15 Min Prep - Sauerkraut Casserole - additional detail

Nutrition Facts for Sauerkraut Casserole

Per serving (this recipe makes approximately 8 servings):

Calories: 450
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 800mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Sauerkraut Casserole

Once your delicious Sauerkraut Casserole is baked and enjoyed, you’ll want to know how to keep those amazing flavors for later. Proper storage is key to maintaining its quality. After letting the casserole cool for about 30 minutes to an hour, portion it into airtight containers. You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, this casserole freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep, ensuring you always have a hearty meal on hand. Consider trying our turkey meatloaf recipe for another meal prep option.

Reheating is just as simple! For refrigerated portions, you can reheat them in the microwave until warmed through, or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until bubbly. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight first. Then, follow the oven reheating method, adding a bit more time if needed. This ensures your Sauerkraut Casserole is just as tasty as when it was first made. For other comforting dishes, explore our boat dip rotel ranch dip.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sauerkraut Casserole

What is the best way to drain sauerkraut for this casserole?

For the best Sauerkraut Casserole texture, it’s crucial to drain the sauerkraut very well. I like to pour it into a fine-mesh sieve and press down on it with the back of a spoon or even my hands to remove as much liquid as possible. This prevents a watery casserole and ensures the flavors concentrate beautifully.

Can I substitute the Swiss cheese in this Sauerkraut Casserole?

While Swiss cheese gives this dish a wonderful nutty flavor, you can absolutely make substitutions! A sharp cheddar or a Gruyère would also be delicious. If you’re looking for a creamier texture, a blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar works well. It remains an easy ground beef casserole regardless of the cheese you choose. For a different cheesy delight, try our keto cottage cheese bread recipe.

Is this Sauerkraut Casserole spicy?

This particular Sauerkraut Casserole recipe isn’t spicy at all. The flavors are savory, tangy, and slightly sweet from the brown sugar. If you prefer a bit of heat, you could add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture as it browns, or serve it with a side of hot sauce.

Why is my Sauerkraut Casserole not holding its shape?

If your casserole is too loose, it might be due to insufficient draining of the sauerkraut or perhaps the egg noodles were a bit overcooked. Letting the casserole rest for the recommended 5-10 minutes after baking also helps it set up properly, making it easier to serve neat portions. It’s still a delicious easy ground beef casserole even if it’s a little messy!

Variations of Sauerkraut Casserole You Can Try

Looking to switch things up or cater to different dietary needs? This versatile Sauerkraut Casserole base is perfect for experimentation. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Low-Carb Version: Skip the egg noodles altogether and replace them with a layer of cauliflower rice or even thinly sliced potatoes. This makes for a fantastic low-carb meal that still delivers on flavor.
Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, add a finely chopped jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture while browning. This adds a lovely warmth to the classic dish.
Creamy German Twist: Enhance the creaminess by mixing a dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt into the tomato soup mixture before pouring it over the casserole. This adds a lovely tang and richness, making it an even more decadent Swiss cheese casserole.
Vegetarian Delight: Easily make this a vegetarian meal by swapping the ground beef for crumbled firm tofu or a plant-based ground substitute. Ensure you add plenty of seasonings to the veggie base for maximum flavor.