Baked Kraut Recipe
A hearty baked kraut dish with crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and sweet brown sugar, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings that enjoy savory and tangy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain all ingredients thoroughly.
- Fry bacon until crisp, then drain on paper towel.
- Fry chopped onions in bacon grease until golden brown, then drain on a paper towel.
- Drain two cans of kraut and break up the whole tomatoes, then place in a mixing bowl.
- Add the cooked bacon, fried onions, and 1 cup of brown sugar to the bowl.
- Mix all ingredients well and transfer to a baking dish.
- Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a dash of liquid smoke to the mixture. If you're looking to reduce sugar, try substituting half of the brown sugar with maple syrup for a unique twist. You can also use sauerkraut from a jar for a different texture. Make sure to taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serving Suggestions
This Baked Kraut pairs beautifully with grilled meats or sausages, making it a great side for barbecues. Consider serving alongside roasted potatoes or a fresh salad to balance the dish. For a complete meal, pair it with a serving of Pork recipes or a hearty bread to soak up the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place in a baking dish and cover with foil, warming in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Kraut Recipe contains roughly 1258 calories, with 9g protein, 262g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value), iron (19% of the Daily Value), and calcium (18% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 711mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cabbage instead of canned kraut?
Yes, you can use fresh cabbage. Simply shred it and sauté until tender before adding it to the mixture. Keep in mind that the flavor will be milder, so you may need to adjust seasonings accordingly.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the bacon with diced smoked tempeh or a vegetarian bacon alternative for a similar smoky flavor. Additionally, you can use vegetable broth instead of bacon grease for sautéing the onions.
What can I serve with Baked Kraut?
Baked Kraut goes well with a variety of dishes. It complements meats like pork chops or sausages perfectly. You might also want to enjoy it with a side of mashed potatoes or Sweet Potato Dressing for a comforting meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).