Donna And Karen'S Sauerkraut Balls

Prep: 10 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 36 Cuisine: American

Savory sauerkraut balls with sausage and oats offer a crispy, flavorful appetizer perfect for parties or casual gatherings, appealing to those who enjoy hearty, tangy bites.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 16 oz. jar sauerkraut, well drained
  • 1 lb. Bob Evans sage sausage
  • 3/4 cup oats
  • 1 egg, beaten

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients together until well blended.
  2. Form the mixture into 36 balls.
  3. Place the balls in a 9-inch square glass dish.
  4. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.
  5. Serve warm.

Tips & Substitutions

For optimal flavor, consider using fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to enhance the taste of the sauerkraut balls. If Bob Evans sage sausage isn't available, you can substitute with any flavorful sausage or even a plant-based option for a vegetarian twist. Ensure that the sauerkraut is thoroughly drained to prevent the mixture from becoming too wet.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these sauerkraut balls warm as a delicious appetizer or snack. They pair beautifully with a side of mustard for dipping or alongside a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider serving them with a hearty bowl of soup or alongside Pearl'S Main Dish Noodle Pudding for a comforting combo.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover sauerkraut balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy. You can also microwave them for a quicker option but they may not retain their crispness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Donna And Karen'S Sauerkraut Balls contains roughly 117 calories, with 2g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.

117 kcal 6% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.5g 5% DV
Total Fat 1.2g 2% DV
Carbs 24.9g 9% DV
Fiber 1.3g 5% DV
Sugar 12.2g 24% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 17.8mg 1% DV
Potassium 97.8mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 12.9mg 4% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 3.2mcg
Vitamin C 0mg
Calcium 28.7mg 2% DV
Iron 0.8mg 4% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Egg

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 make these sauerkraut balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture and form the balls a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator, then bake just before serving. This way, you'll have a warm, fresh appetizer ready for your gathering with minimal last-minute effort.

Can I freeze sauerkraut balls?

Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked sauerkraut balls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for best results.

What can I serve with sauerkraut balls?

Sauerkraut balls are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Pair them with a tangy dipping sauce, like mustard or a homemade ranch. For a heartier meal, accompany with roasted vegetables or a light salad to balance the flavors. They also complement traditional German dishes beautifully.

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).

American recipes → Vegetarian recipes → All recipes →