Kraut Kuchens
Kraut Kuchens are savory, handheld bread pockets filled with a flavorful mixture of hamburger and cabbage, seasoned with thyme and Worcestershire sauce. Baked to perfection, they make a hearty meal or snack, complemented by a sweet tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks seeking comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thaw the bread dough. In an electric frypan or large skillet, brown the hamburger and shredded cabbage, adding water as needed to cook.
- Stir often until all seems well done and most moisture is cooked off.
- Stir in thyme, Worcestershire sauce, and salt.
- Cut the dough into 4 or 6 pieces. Roll each piece out to flatten as big as possible.
- Divide the cabbage mixture, about 1/4 cup per piece, onto each flattened dough piece.
- Fold the dough over the filling and press shut around the edges. Cut 3 slits in the top to let steam out.
- Let rise for up to 30 minutes if desired.
- Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Prepare the sauce by heating one can of tomato sauce with 1/3 cup of brown sugar. Spoon the sauce over the kraut kuchens as you eat.
- Reheats well.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding diced onions or garlic to the meat mixture for extra flavor. You can substitute the honey wheat bread dough with any frozen bread dough you prefer, such as white or whole wheat. If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the filling. Serve alongside a simple salad or soup for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the kraut kuchens warm, drizzled with the prepared sauce for a delightful flavor contrast. They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or a side of Macaroni And Vegetable Medley for a hearty meal. Enjoy them as a snack or light lunch, and consider serving with pickles or a tangy slaw for added crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover kraut kuchens 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. They can also be microwaved for 1-2 minutes, but the oven method will help retain their crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kraut Kuchens contains roughly 265 calories, with 4g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (17% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value), and iron (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 782mg per serving (34% 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 freeze kraut kuchens after baking?
Yes, you can freeze baked kraut kuchens. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat in the oven for best results.
What can I use instead of hamburger in this recipe?
For a lighter option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken in place of hamburger. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, use cooked lentils or a combination of mushrooms and beans to create a hearty filling without meat.
How do I know when the kraut kuchens are done baking?
Kraut kuchens are done when they are golden brown on top, usually around 20 minutes at 375°F. You can also tap the bottom; if it sounds hollow, they are likely cooked through. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking.
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).