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.
Serve with our low-carb cauli “mashed potatoes,” a bowl of cauli rice, and a few pieces of dill pickles or pickled watermelon.
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—green bean casserole for that tender meal.
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.
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.
- Sprinkle a tablespoon of salt and a few caraway seeds over the cabbage and let it soften for a few minutes.
- Massage the cabbage to release its natural juices, then pack it tightly into a clean glass jar, pressing down to eliminate air gaps.
- 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.
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 (350 degrees Fahrenheit) so it’s ready for your sauerkraut casserole.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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Sauerkraut Casserole Recipe with Ground Beef
Equipment
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
Video
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit) so it's ready for your sauerkraut casserole.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
Disclaimer
Please note that nutrient values are estimates only. Variations can occur due to product availability and manner of food preparation. Nutrition may vary based on methods of origin, preparation, freshness of ingredients, and other factors.
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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 help with Keto Fast Food ideas that are always fully Low Carb, Gluten-free and Grain-Free.
Can this be made in the crock pot vs the oven?
I am sorry, but I do not own a crock pot, but do not see why not.
The conversion to Fahrenheit should be 350 degrees, instead of 250. Found this out the hard way…. but I’m still looking forward to the completed product.
You are so right. Thank you for spotting that. I have now updated it.
My daughter gave me this recipe to make; she had something similar when she was in Europe, and her host family made a casserole she loved. I did use the kielbasa. We loved the recipe and my daughter said it hit the spot for her, and brought back some good memories.
How lovely, those memories must have been work making the dinner.
This was delicious and so easy! I’ve been trying to eat lower carb meals and this was a great one. Will definitely be adding this to my monthly lineup.
This makes me so happy as it is our favorite casserole as well.
I love trying out new recipes and I’m so glad I made this casserole. It was my first time using sauerkraut for a casserole. The flavors were amazing and I’m definitely making this again.
Sauerkraut is a big time must ingredient we use all the time. It gives every meal that special tangy taste and is healthy at the same time.
Can I use sauerkraut that is wine or is the recipe better with the salted version? Thank you
It does works with both. It really just depends on your taste preference.
These turned out really cheesy and savory. Super easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights!
Sauerkraut always rocks
I love that this is a casserole with sauerkraut! I can never find anything with sauerkraut except for the same ol’ tired recipes. This is delish!
We love sauerkraut and make so many recipes using it.
Hi,
Do you cook the ground beef before putting in the casserole dish?
Thank you,
Jennifer
No, I dont. It gets cooked once baked, so no need to pre cook it.
I loved this! I was looking for something cheap to make with ground beef and this popped up. I even shared it with coworkers and two made it and loved it too. Even my hubby was surprised how good it was! I only added a little fennel sprinkled on the ground beef layer. So good!
Messages like those makes my day every single time. Thanks for sharing.
Am I the only one that was confused as to if you should cook the beef first or not?? haha
No, you do not have to cook the beef before.
I made this twice. The first time I used the sour cream, I liked it, but my son didn’t. The second time I made it, instead of sour cream, I used mashed potatoes, but mixed some sour cream into the potatoes. Much better, and my son loved it. Kielbasa works well, too.
Happy you found your way.
Would replacing the sour cream with Greek Yogurt work?
Sure, that should work without problems.