Home » Recipes » Sauerkraut Casserole Recipe with Ground Beef

Sauerkraut Casserole Recipe with Ground Beef

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy.

I am introducing you to our Sauerkraut Casserole Recipe with Ground Beef, a delightful dish combining German sauerkraut casserole with hearty plain beef or sausage meat and lots of cheese. For a vegan twist, swap out the beef with noodles and savor the comforting essence of sauerkraut casserole while enjoying a plant-based delight.

Eating a casserole on a plate with fork.
Sauerkraut Casserole with Ground Beef. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Serve with our low-carb cauli “mashed potatoes,” a bowl of cauli rice, a few pieces of dill pickles or freshly made sauerkraut. 

Keto Book with recipes
Newsletter and Keto Free Ebook

Low Carb Casserole Dishes

Before we dive into our sauerkraut casserole, let me introduce you to the delectable low-carb delights world with our casserole creations. 

Delve into the hearty goodness of Brussels sprouts casserole or relish the comforting flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls

If you’re in the mood for something creamy and satisfying, the palmini baked feta pasta will hit the spot, while the layers of flavor in our low-carb lasagna will truly impress. 

For a spicy kick, the enchilada with chicken brings a burst of taste, and the chicken bacon ranch casserole delivers a delightful combination of flavors. 

Are you seeking a robust option? Look no further than the cabbage beef casserole, which can also be prepared in a large skillet over medium heat, while the asparagus quiche showcases a fresh and light taste. 

Lastly, the taco casserole adds a dash of excitement to your plate. 

These low-carb casseroles, ranging in flavors and textures, are here to prove that healthy eating can be delightful.

A casserole dish with a scoop of cheese on top.
Casserole dish with sauerkraut.

Is This a German Sauerkraut Casserole?

No, this is not a traditional German food sauerkraut casserole. Our unique Slovak casserole recipe focuses on the simplicity of sauerkraut, savory ground beef, a blend of cheese, and a touch of sour cream. And I have alternated it a bit more for this great recipe to fit our low-carb lifestyle with minimum carbohydrates.

My recipe is different but even more delicious without the addition of sausage, bacon, kielbasa, onion, tomatoes, brown sugar, or other ingredients typically found in German variations.

How To Make Sauerkraut From Cabbage

Making homemade sauerkraut is a tradition in my country, and every family has its favorite way of making it with unique recipe. It is, in general, salty and savory fermented cabbage.

This simple process of this sour kraut or sour cabbage starts by finely shredding or slicing the cabbage and placing it in a large bowl. 

  1. Sprinkle a tablespoon of salt and a few caraway seeds over the cabbage and let it soften for a few minutes. 
  2. Massage the cabbage to release its natural juices, then pack it tightly into a clean glass jar, pressing down to eliminate air gaps. 
  3. Ensure the cabbage is fully submerged in its liquid, using a weight if needed. Seal the jar and let it ferment at room temperature, occasionally pressing down on the cabbage. 

Over the following weeks, the cabbage will transform into tangy sauerkraut you can store throughout the whole winter, ready to add its distinct flavor to various dishes.

A piece of casserole is being taken off a plate.
Cheesy Sauerkraut Casserole.

How To Make Sauerkraut Casserole With Beef

You should give this casserole a try and make this casserole with beef your new favorite healthy way to use sauerkraut.

After the first bite, you will realize what a fantastic combination this casserole truly is.

Kitchen Gadgets Needed:

  • Casserole dish
  • Aluminum Foil

Ingredients Needed:

  • Sauerkraut
  • Shredded Cheese
  • Ground Beef
  • Garlic
  • Sour Cream
  • Olive Oil
  • Salt & Pepper

*Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below.

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS TO MAKING THE BEST SAUERKRAUT CASSEROLE RECIPE

First Step: Prepare and Heat the Oven

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (250 degrees Fahrenheit) so it’s ready for your sauerkraut casserole.

Ingredients for a sauerkraut casserole.
Sauerkraut casserole ingredients.

Second Step: Assemble the First Layer

To start building your casserole, use a brush to spread oil in a casserole dish lightly. Then, layer in 1 cup of sauerkraut at the bottom of a greased dish, shredded cheese, and ground beef. These ingredients create a flavorful foundation for your dish.

A series of photos showing how to make casserole.
Ground beef casserole.

Third Step: Add the Second Layer

Sprinkle finely chopped garlic, salt, and pepper over the first layer. Add another layer of sauerkraut to enhance the taste. Finally, cover everything with a smooth layer of sour cream, which adds a delightful creamy touch.

Four pictures showing how to make a casserole in a glass pan.
Sauerkraut beef casserole.

Fourth Step: Add Cheese and Bake

For the finishing touch, sprinkle another layer of cheese on top. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil to keep the flavors in. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. This helps all the flavors meld together beautifully.

You can take out the aluminum foil for the last 10 minutes and bake uncovered to get your cheese topping a nice crust. 

Cheesy Casserole ready to bake.
Cheesy Casserole.

TIPS AND TRICKS:

  • If you are using canned sauerkraut from grocery stores, remember to drain it before using it to avoid excess moisture.
  • Use a casserole dish that is not very big, so you can higher up the layers. 
  • Use your favorite cheese, Swiss cheese, cheddar or any other. Make sure you shred it at home to avoid additional starch from supermarkets. 
  • Additionally, broth, spices and herbs like garlic powder, onion powder or freshly chopped herbs can give this casserole even greater flavors. 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

What To Serve With Sauerkraut Casserole?

To complement your sauerkraut casserole, pair it with dishes like al dente egg noodles, diced potatoes (if you are not on a strict diet) or a flavorful sauerkraut salad. A warm bowl of tomato soup could also be an excellent addition. Feel free to use your favorite sides, as this versatile casserole goes well with many options.

A piece of cheese casserole on a black plate.
Cheese casserole.

Can I Use Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Instead of Ground Beef?

Absolutely! If you love sauerkraut and kielbasa, they can be an excellent substitute for ground beef in this casserole. Just dice the smoked kielbasa and simmer it with the sauerkraut mixture. The smoked meat’s smoky flavors and hearty essence will create a flavorful new dish.

You can also use hamburger meat, roasted pork or any other protein. 

How Do I Store This Low Carb Casserole?

Once your sauerkraut casserole has cooled down, you can store any leftover portions in the fridge. Use an airtight container to keep it fresh. When reheating, don’t overcook to maintain the delightful textures and flavors.

Can I Freeze Sauerkraut Casserole?

Certainly. Freezing sauerkraut casserole is a great way to enjoy it later. After baking, allow it to cool, then wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. When you’re ready to savor it, thaw it in the fridge and reheat it in the oven for a beautiful taste even after freezing.

More Sauerkraut Recipes

Discover more ways to enjoy sauerkraut with these tasty recipes.

Try sauerkraut soup for a cozy and tangy dish that warms you up. Enjoy the hearty flavors of sausage sauerkraut, where sausage pairs well with the tanginess of sauerkraut. And don’t forget sauerkraut chicken, a delicious combination of tender chicken and zesty sauerkraut.

Pin For Later

Low carb sauerkraut casserole.
Low carb sauerkraut casserole.

Need Support or have Questions? Join our Free Facebook Group.

Follow us on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Flipboard, or YouTube.

For weekly New Recipes and a FREE E-Book get into our NEWSLETTER.

Full Recipe With Print Out Option

Thank you for giving us 5 stars

Yield: 6

Sauerkraut Casserole Recipe with Ground Beef

A plate of meat and cheese with a fork.

I am introducing you to our Sauerkraut Casserole Recipe with Ground Beef, a delightful dish combining German sauerkraut casserole with hearty plain beef or sausage meat and lots of cheese. For a vegan twist, swap out the beef with noodles and savor the comforting essence of sauerkraut casserole while enjoying a plant-based delight.

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes

Ingredients

  • 3 Cups Sauerkraut
  • 2 Cups Shredded Cheese
  • 2 Cups Ground Beef
  • 5 Garlic Cloves
  • 2 Cups Sour Cream
  • 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
  • Salt & Pepper

Instructions

  1. Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (250 degrees Fahrenheit) so it's ready for your sauerkraut casserole.
  2. To start building your casserole, use a brush to spread oil in a casserole dish lightly. Then, layer in 1 cup of sauerkraut at the bottom of a greased dish, shredded cheese, and ground beef. These ingredients create a flavorful foundation for your dish.
  3. Sprinkle finely chopped garlic, salt, and pepper over the first layer. Add another layer of sauerkraut to enhance the taste. Finally, cover everything with a smooth layer of sour cream, which adds a delightful creamy touch.
  4. For the finishing touch, sprinkle another layer of cheese on top. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil to keep the flavors in. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. This helps all the flavors meld together beautifully. You can take out the aluminum foil for the last 10 minutes and bake uncovered to get your cheese topping a nice crust. 

Notes

  • If you are using canned sauerkraut from grocery stores, remember to drain it before using it to avoid excess moisture.
  • Use a casserole dish that is not very big, so you can higher up the layers. 
  • Use your favorite cheese, Swiss cheese, cheddar or any other. Make sure you shred it at home to avoid additional starch from supermarkets. 
  • Additionally, broth, spices and herbs like garlic powder, onion powder or freshly chopped herbs can give this casserole even greater flavors. 

Nutrition Information

Yield

6

Serving Size

1 Portion

Amount Per Serving Calories 357Total Fat 31gCarbohydrates 4gFiber 0gProtein 17g

Did you make this recipe?

Mention @lowcarb_nocarb or tag #lowcarb_nocarb on Instagram or our Facebook Support Group.

If you are still looking for some Low Carb products, visit our recommended site on Amazon, which we participate in as affiliates. Just click on the image below and all will be revealed.

Amazon Low Carb Keto
Amazon Shop

Ground Beef Keto Recipes

Perfect Keto and Low Carb Recipe to use with Ground Beef and minced meat. Super easy and quick Ground Beef Keto Recipe to hel with Keto Fast Food ideas that are always fully Low Carb, Gluten-free and Grain-Free.

image with 10 sheets for keto meal plan
7 Day Keto Meal Plan
By Zuzana Paar on October 1st, 2023
Photo of author

About Zuzana Paar

Zuzana is the creative force behind this vibrant blog. With passion as a recipe developer, content creator, food writer, movie maker, and photographer, she poured her heart and soul into curating a space brimming with delightful keto and low carb recipes. Join her on this flavorful journey where quick, easy-to-make dishes take center stage, bringing joy and nourishment to your table.

More Posts by this author.

2 Comments on “Sauerkraut Casserole Recipe with Ground Beef”

Leave a Comment

Skip to Recipe