Ground Beef Sauerbraten

Prep: 10 min Cook: 8 min Serves: 3 Cuisine: German

Ground beef simmered with onions and spices, served with Bavarian-style vegetables and spatzle, creating a hearty, flavorful meal perfect for comforting family dinners.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 3/4 lb ground beef
  • 1/4 cup chopped onion
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/4 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon vinegar
  • 1 (10 oz) package Birds Eye Bavarian-style beans and spatzle with a seasoned sauce

Instructions

  1. Lightly brown ground beef in a hot skillet.
  2. Add chopped onion and salt; cook until onion is tender, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add water, vinegar, and ground ginger to the skillet.
  4. Move the meat mixture to the sides of the skillet.
  5. Add the vegetables and bring to a full boil over medium heat, separating vegetables with a fork.
  6. Stir until the sauce cubes are blended.
  7. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 3 minutes.
  8. Serve over cooked noodles if desired.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using a blend of ground beef and ground pork. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking. Fresh ginger can be substituted for ground ginger for a more vibrant taste. This dish pairs nicely with cooked egg noodles or rice, similar to Asian dishes like Korean Beef Bagolgie.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this flavorful beef sauerbraten over a bed of egg noodles or alongside a crusty bread to soak up the sauce. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables make excellent sides, adding freshness to the meal. For an authentic experience, consider pairing with a glass of German beer or a light red wine.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat in a microwave, covered, in 1-minute intervals until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Ground Beef Sauerbraten contains roughly 127 calories, with 1g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2359mg per serving (103% of the Daily Value).

127 kcal 6% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.4g 3% DV
Total Fat 0.5g 1% DV
Carbs 24.7g 9% DV
Fiber 1g 4% DV
Sugar 17g 34% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2359.1mg 100% DV
Potassium 190.1mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 1.2mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.1mcg
Vitamin C 7.3mg 8% DV
Calcium 40mg 3% DV
Iron 1.1mg 6% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat

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 a different type of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. However, keep in mind that the flavor profile may change slightly. Adjust seasoning accordingly to enhance the taste.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Ground Beef Sauerbraten can be made a day in advance. Just cook as instructed, allow it to cool, then refrigerate. Reheat gently before serving for the best flavor and texture.

What can I serve with Ground Beef Sauerbraten?

This dish pairs beautifully with cooked noodles or rice, which help absorb the delicious sauce. Additionally, roasted vegetables or a fresh salad provide a nice contrast and balance to the richness of the beef.

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).

Beef recipes → All recipes →