Kraut And Burger Balls
Kraut and Burger Balls are savory meatballs baked with sauerkraut and a tangy tomato-ketchup sauce, perfect for hearty family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, dry bread crumbs, chopped onions, salt, and pepper; form into meatballs.
- Place drained sauerkraut in a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Arrange the meatballs on top of the sauerkraut.
- Mix ketchup, canned tomatoes, and brown sugar; pour over the meatballs and sauerkraut.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using seasoned bread crumbs instead of plain. If you're looking for a lighter option, ground turkey can be used in place of ground beef. To enhance the dish, sauté the onions before mixing them in for a sweeter taste. If you have leftovers, you can experiment by adding some shredded cheese on top before baking for a cheesy twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Kraut and Burger Balls with a side of mashed potatoes or crusty bread for a hearty meal. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables make excellent accompaniments. This dish pairs beautifully with creamy sides, making it a comforting option for family dinners. You might also explore other American recipes that highlight ground beef.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatballs and sauerkraut in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kraut And Burger Balls contains roughly 179 calories, with 4g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2323mg per serving (101% 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 sauerkraut instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh sauerkraut if you prefer. Just make sure to drain it well and adjust the seasoning since fresh sauerkraut can be tangier than canned. This can enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
What can I substitute for ketchup?
If you're out of ketchup, you can use barbecue sauce or a mix of tomato paste with a bit of vinegar and sugar. This will give a similar sweet and tangy flavor that complements the meatballs well.
Can I freeze these meatballs?
Absolutely! You can freeze the meatballs either before or after baking. To freeze, arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be baked straight from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).