If you crave a warm, comforting dish that brings together tangy sauerkraut, hearty ground beef, tender egg noodles, and the creamy melt of Swiss cheese, then this Sauerkraut Casserole with Ground Beef, Egg Noodles, and Swiss Cheese Recipe is exactly what your dinner table needs. It’s a harmonious mix of savory and sweet elements baked to bubbly perfection, making it a classic favorite that feels like a big, delicious hug from the inside out.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each one adds its own special touch to the flavor and texture, making this casserole irresistibly good.
- Ground beef (2 lbs): The protein-packed base that gives the casserole its hearty, satisfying feel.
- Onion, diced (1 medium): Adds a sweet and aromatic nuance when sautéed with beef.
- Wide egg noodles (8 oz, cooked): Provide a soft, chewy bite that beautifully soaks up the sauerkraut’s tang and the rich sauce.
- Drained sauerkraut (2 cans, 14 oz each): Brings a bright, slightly sour punch that balances out the rich beef and cheese.
- Brown sugar (3/4 cup): Adds a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the tartness of the sauerkraut.
- Tomato soup (2 cans, 10.75 oz each): Creates a creamy, tomatoey sauce that ties all the ingredients together.
- Shredded Swiss cheese (2 cups): Melts to a luscious golden crust full of nutty flavor.
- Garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out layers of flavor in the beef mixture.
How to Make Sauerkraut Casserole with Ground Beef, Egg Noodles, and Swiss Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Dish
Set your oven to 350°F and give your 9×13 baking dish a good greasing. This ensures your casserole will come out warm and inviting without sticking to the pan, making cleanup a breeze later on.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Sauté Onions
Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef along with diced onion, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. This step creates a savory, aromatic base, and cooking the beef thoroughly is key to infusing the entire casserole with rich flavor.
Step 3: Layer the Sauerkraut and Brown Sugar
Spread the drained sauerkraut evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Then sprinkle it generously with brown sugar. This combination creates the classic sweet-and-sour flavor that’s the heart of this casserole’s magic.
Step 4: Add the Egg Noodles and Beef
Next, layer the cooked egg noodles over the sauerkraut, followed by the browned beef mixture. These layers ensure every bite has a perfect balance of texture and taste, from the tender noodles to the meaty, seasoned beef.
Step 5: Pour the Tomato Soup Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the tomato soup with a little water (use the soup can to measure). Pour this lovingly over the layered ingredients, creating a creamy sauce that will keep the casserole moist and flavorful as it bakes.
Step 6: Top with Swiss Cheese and Bake
Finally, blanket the entire casserole with shredded Swiss cheese — the crowning glory! Bake for 30 to 45 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, signaling a warm, cheesy delight ready to be served.
How to Serve Sauerkraut Casserole with Ground Beef, Egg Noodles, and Swiss Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
To add fresh flavor and a pop of color, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top just before serving. A dollop of sour cream on the side adds a creamy tang that pairs perfectly with the sauerkraut’s bite.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but if you’re looking to round it out, consider a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or some steamed green beans. Their refreshing crunch balances the casserole’s rich and tender comfort.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or cast iron skillets, letting each guest enjoy their own bubbly, cheesy portion. You can also top it with extra Swiss cheese and broil for a minute or two to achieve a beautifully crisp crust that will wow your family and friends.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your casserole, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy the next day without losing that homey flavor.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap it well or store in a freezer-safe dish, and it will keep up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
When reheating, cover the casserole with foil and warm at 350°F until heated through—usually 20 to 25 minutes. Removing the foil for the last 5 minutes helps regain that bubbly, golden cheese top that’s so irresistible.
FAQs
Can I use fresh sauerkraut instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh sauerkraut works wonderfully in this casserole; just make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture before layering to avoid a soggy dish.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes! You can swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute to maintain the hearty texture while keeping it vegetarian-friendly.
Can I substitute the Swiss cheese with another type?
Definitely. Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a sharp cheddar would add a different but delicious twist to the casserole’s cheesy layer.
What’s the best way to cook the egg noodles for this recipe?
Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and toss with a little butter or oil to prevent sticking before layering them in the casserole.
Can this casserole be made gluten-free?
With some modifications, yes. Use gluten-free egg noodles and ensure the tomato soup and other seasonings are gluten-free. This way, it can still be enjoyed without gluten concerns.
Final Thoughts
This Sauerkraut Casserole with Ground Beef, Egg Noodles, and Swiss Cheese Recipe is a true comfort food classic that brings people together with its unique blend of flavors. It’s straightforward, satisfying, and downright delicious. I encourage you to give it a try—it just might become your go-to dish for cozy weeknights or family gatherings.
Print
Sauerkraut Casserole with Ground Beef, Egg Noodles, and Swiss Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and comforting Sauerkraut Casserole combining ground beef, tangy sauerkraut, savory tomato soup, and melted Swiss cheese layered over tender egg noodles. This baked casserole offers a flavorful blend of sweet, sour, and savory notes, perfect for a family dinner or potluck meal.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
Pasta and Sauerkraut
- 8 oz wide egg noodles, cooked
- 2 cans (14 oz each) sauerkraut, drained
Other Ingredients
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cans (10.75 oz each) tomato soup
- 1/2 cup water (for mixing with tomato soup)
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Cook the Beef Mixture. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with diced onion. Add garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook until the beef is fully browned and the onion is soft, then drain any excess fat.
- Layer Sauerkraut and Brown Sugar. Spread the drained sauerkraut evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the sauerkraut to balance its tangy flavor with sweetness.
- Add Egg Noodles and Beef. Layer the cooked egg noodles evenly over the sauerkraut and brown sugar. Follow by spreading the cooked ground beef and onion mixture evenly on top of the noodles.
- Pour Tomato Soup Mixture. In a bowl, whisk together the two cans of tomato soup with 1/2 cup of water until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered casserole to add moisture and tomato flavor.
- Top with Cheese and Bake. Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese evenly on top, then bake in the preheated oven for 30-45 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
Notes
- You can substitute Swiss cheese with mozzarella or cheddar if preferred.
- Ensure sauerkraut is well drained to avoid a soggy casserole.
- This casserole can be assembled ahead and refrigerated before baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
