Description
This Sauerkraut Casserole with Ground Beef is a hearty, comforting dish combining savory seasoned ground beef with tangy sauerkraut, creamy sour cream, and tender egg noodles, all baked to golden perfection. Ideal for a satisfying weeknight meal with its rich, bold flavors and easy preparation.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings & Add-ins
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 (14 oz) can sauerkraut, drained
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup shredded Swiss or mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups cooked egg noodles or rice
Topping
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking during baking.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to release its aroma.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned thoroughly. Drain excess fat from the pan. Season the beef with smoked paprika, caraway seeds if using, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Mix Casserole Base: In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, drained sauerkraut, sour cream, shredded cheese, and cooked egg noodles or rice. Mix all ingredients until evenly incorporated.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the combined mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, ensuring an even layer for baking.
- Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter until well coated. Sprinkle this mixture uniformly over the top of the casserole to create a crunchy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and the dish to set.
Notes
- For a creamier casserole, add an extra 1/2 cup of sour cream or a splash of milk.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh side salad.
- You can substitute ground pork or sausage for the ground beef for a different flavor variation.
- Use gluten-free noodles and breadcrumbs to make this casserole gluten-friendly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German-Inspired, American
