Mom'S Sauerkraut Casserole
A hearty sauerkraut casserole combining ground meat, rice, smoked ham, and tangy tomato juice, baked to perfection—perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spread evenly half of well drained sauerkraut in a casserole pan.
- In a separate bowl, mix ground meat, onions, cooked rice, smoked ham, and seasoning.
- Spread the meat mixture on top of the sauerkraut in the casserole pan.
- Spread the remaining sauerkraut on top of the meat mixture.
- Pour the tomato juice evenly over the sauerkraut.
- Sprinkle dill and thyme on top.
- Bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 2 to 2 1/2 hours.
- Serve with sour cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or a mix of meats. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with lentils or a meat alternative. Make sure to drain the sauerkraut well to avoid a watery casserole. You can also add spices like paprika for an extra kick. This dish is a comforting choice akin to other American recipes, like Sausage-Brown Rice Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a dollop of sour cream on top for creaminess. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. For a comforting side, consider serving with mashed potatoes, which complement the flavors beautifully. This dish is reminiscent of other comforting meals like Ham, Yam And Apples.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Sauerkraut Casserole contains roughly 226 calories, with 7g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (63% of the Daily Value), iron (38% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 different types of meat in this casserole?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile and allows for various meats like chicken, beef, or pork. You can even mix different types for a richer flavor. Just ensure they are cooked through and seasoned well before mixing into the casserole.
How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
The casserole is done when the top is golden brown and bubbly, typically after 2 to 2 1/2 hours at 350°F. You can also use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach at least 160°F for safety.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble this casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before baking, or adjust the baking time if starting from cold.
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).