German Sauerkraut Casserole
A hearty German-inspired casserole featuring tangy sauerkraut, savory ground beef, rice, and tomato soup, baked to perfection—comfort food ideal for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer ingredients in the casserole dish in the order given: sauerkraut, rice, chopped onion, browned hamburger, pepper, tomato soup, and water.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier dish, consider adding some shredded cheese on top during the last 15 minutes of baking. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the hamburger with a plant-based ground meat alternative. You can also use brown rice instead of white for added nutrition, but increase the cooking time slightly to ensure it's fully cooked.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is delicious served with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad to balance the flavors. It also pairs beautifully with German Sour Cream Potatoes for a comforting meal. For added freshness, consider serving with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of German Sauerkraut Casserole contains roughly 701 calories, with 29g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (106% of the Daily Value), protein (58% of the Daily Value), and iron (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1368mg per serving (59% 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
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Definitely! You can add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the layers for an extra kick. Alternatively, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes with the pepper for a milder heat that complements the other flavors without overpowering them.
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).