Unsinkable Sauerkraut
A comforting, savory casserole featuring tender ground beef, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy chicken soup, perfect for hearty family dinners and those who enjoy bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet; drain excess fat.
- Combine the cooked beef and onion with undrained sauerkraut and cream of chicken soup in a baking dish.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 1/2 hours.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding shredded cheese on top during the last 15 minutes of baking. If you're out of cream of chicken soup, you can substitute it with a homemade white sauce or creamy mushroom soup. Adding some caraway seeds can also enhance the sauerkraut's taste, making it even more authentic. Experiment with different types of ground meat for variation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Unsinkable Sauerkraut hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or crusty bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a side salad or roasted vegetables. This dish is also great for potlucks and pairs beautifully with Easy Escalloped Chicken for a comforting dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can add a splash of water to keep it moist while reheating. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Unsinkable Sauerkraut contains roughly 347 calories, with 17g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1480mg per serving (64% 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 definitely use fresh sauerkraut! Just be sure to drain it well before combining with the other ingredients. Fresh sauerkraut will give a different texture and flavor profile, so adjust the seasoning accordingly to taste.
What can I do if the dish is too salty?
If the dish turns out too salty, try adding a small amount of sugar or honey to balance the flavors. You can also add more cream of chicken soup or a small amount of cooked rice or potatoes to absorb some of the saltiness.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or lentils for a vegetarian version. Use a creamy mushroom soup instead of the cream of chicken soup to keep it vegetarian-friendly while still packing in the 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).