Kraut Ball
Kraut balls are savory, bite-sized appetizers combining sausage, sauerkraut, and cream cheese, coated in bread crumbs. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the sausage and drain well.
- Drain the chopped kraut well.
- Let the cream cheese soften.
- Mix all sausage, kraut, and cream cheese by hand. Chill in the fridge for a couple of hours.
- Form the mixture into balls.
- Dip the balls into beaten egg, then roll in bread crumbs and parsley.
- Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute turkey sausage for mild sausage. If you prefer a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of sour cream alongside the cream cheese. To add more flavor, incorporate herbs like dill or thyme. Ensure the kraut is well-drained to avoid sogginess in the mixture. If you're short on time, skip chilling the mixture, but it helps the flavors meld together.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Kraut Balls with a tangy dipping sauce, such as mustard or a creamy ranch dressing, for added flavor. They make a fantastic appetizer for parties or game days. Pair them with a side of coleslaw or a fresh green salad to balance the richness. For dessert, consider making Quick And Easy Cherry Delight Pie to round out your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Kraut 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 minutes, or until heated through. For a quicker option, you can microwave them, but be aware that this may affect their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kraut Ball contains roughly 552 calories, with 9g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron.
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 freeze Kraut Balls before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the formed balls before baking. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to an airtight container. When ready to bake, cook them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you want an alternative to cream cheese, you can use neufchâtel cheese for a lower-fat option, or ricotta cheese for a different texture. Greek yogurt can also work, but it may alter the flavor slightly.
How can I make these spicier?
To add some heat to your Kraut Balls, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or adding a dash of hot sauce to the sausage mixture. You can also use spicy sausage instead of mild for a more robust flavor.
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).