Get ready to experience a taste of home with Annette’s Sauerkraut Casserole. This hearty and flavorful dish combines the comforting flavors of ground beef or turkey, tangy sauerkraut, and gooey Swiss cheese in a satisfying casserole that’s sure to warm your soul. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in, this recipe is a beloved favorite that has stood the test of time. Join us as we explore the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to recreate this classic comfort food in your own kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cans (10.75 oz each) tomato soup
- 1 can (10.75 oz) warm water
- 1 package (16 oz) wide egg noodles
- 2 cans (14 oz each) sauerkraut, drained very well
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
- Garlic powder with parsley
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cook the Meat: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and continue to cook until the onion is soft and translucent. Drain any excess grease.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together the tomato soup and warm water until well combined. Set aside.
- Cook the Noodles: Cook the wide egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Layer the Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the cooked noodles followed by half of the drained sauerkraut. Sprinkle half of the brown sugar over the sauerkraut. Top with half of the cooked meat mixture and half of the shredded Swiss cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining noodles, sauerkraut, brown sugar, meat mixture, and cheese.
- Season: Sprinkle the top of the casserole with garlic powder with parsley, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the foil and let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional parsley if desired, and enjoy the comforting flavors of Annette’s Sauerkraut Casserole!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, omit the ground meat and add extra sauerkraut or your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Spice it Up: Add a kick of heat by incorporating diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes into the meat mixture.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs and spices such as thyme, rosemary, or paprika to enhance the flavor profile of the casserole.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: Substitute the egg noodles with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles to reduce the carb content. Replace the brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or stevia.
- Low Carb Version: Use cauliflower rice or shredded cabbage instead of noodles. Opt for a low-sugar or sugar-free tomato soup to minimize carb intake.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use homemade tomato sauce instead of tomato soup? Yes, you can substitute homemade tomato sauce for the tomato soup. Simply adjust the consistency by adding water or broth as needed to achieve the desired sauce consistency.
- Do I need to rinse the sauerkraut before using it? It’s important to drain the sauerkraut very well to remove excess liquid, but rinsing it is optional. Rinsing may reduce the tanginess of the sauerkraut, so it’s up to personal preference.
- Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover the baking dish with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking as directed.
- How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven until heated through.
- Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, you can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
In conclusion, Annette’s Sauerkraut Casserole is a timeless comfort food that brings together hearty ingredients in a deliciously satisfying dish. With its layers of savory meat, tangy sauerkraut, and melty Swiss cheese, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite for generations to come. Whether enjoyed for a cozy dinner at home or shared with friends at a potluck, this recipe offers a taste of home-cooked goodness that’s impossible to resist. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor the comforting flavors of Annette’s Sauerkraut Casserole!
