Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 18 savory canned sauerkraut recipes! This tangy, fermented cabbage is a staple ingredient in many European cuisines, and when paired with the right ingredients, it can add depth and complexity to a wide range of dishes. From hearty stews and casseroles to quick weeknight skillet meals and decadent breakfast options, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be exploring the many uses of canned sauerkraut in recipes that are sure to become new favorites. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal to warm up on a chilly day or a flavorful twist on a classic dish, these ideas are sure to inspire. So go ahead, get creative with your canned sauerkraut, and discover the endless possibilities!
Slow Cooker Bavarian Sausage and Sauerkraut
This comforting dish combines the flavors of traditional German cuisine with the convenience of a slow cooker. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal ready to serve.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Bavarian sausage (such as Knockwurst or Weisswurst), sliced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the sausage slices in the slow cooker.
2. Add the sauerkraut, onion, garlic, chicken broth, and caraway seeds on top of the sausage.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Reuben Casserole with Canned Sauerkraut
A twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, this casserole combines sauerkraut, corned beef, Swiss cheese, and rye bread for a hearty and flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of sauerkraut (drained)
– 8 oz corned beef, thinly sliced
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
– 1/2 loaf of rye bread, cubed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and corned beef in butter until heated through.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the drained sauerkraut and shredded Swiss cheese.
4. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange half of the bread cubes.
5. Add the sauerkraut mixture, then top with the remaining bread cubes.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Polish Sauerkraut and Mushroom Pierogi
Experience the rich flavors of Poland with this hearty recipe that combines tangy sauerkraut, earthy mushrooms, and pillowy pierogi. These savory dumplings are a staple in Polish cuisine, perfect for a cozy dinner or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
+ 1/2 cup mushrooms (button or cremini), finely chopped
+ 1 tablespoon butter
+ 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– Cooking oil or butter for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, warm water, and salt to form the dough.
2. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Divide the dough into smaller pieces and roll out each piece into a thin circle.
4. Place a tablespoon of sauerkraut-mushroom filling in the center of each circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a half-moon shape, and press edges together to seal.
6. Fry pierogi in hot oil or butter until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as melted cheese, sour cream, or fried onions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
German Sauerkraut Soup with Smoked Sausage
This traditional German soup combines the tangy flavor of sauerkraut with the smoky goodness of smoked sausage, making for a satisfying and warming meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as knockwurst or bratwurst), sliced
– 4 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 2 carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and smoked sausage in a little oil until the sausage is browned.
2. Add the sauerkraut, carrots, celery, potatoes, chicken broth, and caraway seeds.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Hungarian Sauerkraut Stuffed Pork Rolls
These tender pork rolls are packed with the tangy flavor of sauerkraut, perfect for a hearty and satisfying meal. The combination of crispy outside and juicy inside is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless pork loin chops
– 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together sauerkraut, butter, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay pork chops flat and spread a spoonful of the sauerkraut mixture onto each chop, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Roll up each pork chop tightly and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
5. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
6. Place rolls seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Sauerkraut and Kielbasa Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines the tangy flavor of sauerkraut with the spicy kick of kielbasa sausage, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have this flavorful meal on the table in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the sliced kielbasa in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. Add the butter, onion, and garlic to the same skillet and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sauerkraut to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauerkraut is heated through.
4. Return the cooked kielbasa to the skillet and stir to combine with the sauerkraut mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Alsatian Sauerkraut and Pork Ribs Stew
This traditional Alsatian stew combines the tanginess of sauerkraut with the richness of pork ribs, creating a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for cold winter nights.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork ribs
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, brown the pork ribs over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in sauerkraut, beef broth, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer, then transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Cook for 2-1/2 hours or until pork is tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with butter.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Sauerkraut and Apple Braised Chicken
This hearty recipe combines the tanginess of sauerkraut with the sweetness of apples, resulting in a rich and flavorful chicken dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven, sauté the onion in butter until softened.
3. Add the chopped sauerkraut, sliced apples, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
4. Add the chicken thighs and white wine (if using). Cover the pot and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until the chicken is tender and the sauerkraut is caramelized.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Ukrainian Sauerkraut and Potato Varenyky
Experience the authentic flavors of Ukraine with these traditional varenyky filled with tangy sauerkraut and potatoes. This recipe is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large potato, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Water, for boiling
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grated potato, chopped sauerkraut, flour, salt, pepper, and caraway seeds. Mix well.
2. Beat the egg in a separate bowl, then add it to the potato mixture. Mix until combined.
3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the potato mixture into the boiling water.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until varenyky float to the surface.
5. Remove with a slotted spoon and serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crockpot Sauerkraut and Pork Chops
This recipe combines tender pork chops with tangy sauerkraut, all slow-cooked to perfection in your crockpot. It’s a deliciously easy meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 lbs)
– 1 can of sauerkraut (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pork chops with salt, pepper, and brown sugar.
2. Layer the ingredients in your crockpot: onion slices, sauerkraut, garlic, and pork chops.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Sprinkle caraway seeds over the top of the dish during the last hour of cooking.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Sauerkraut and Bacon Frittata
This recipe combines the tangy flavors of sauerkraut and crispy bacon with eggs for a unique and delicious breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
- 6 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add crumbled bacon and cook until crispy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add chopped sauerkraut and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
5. Pour in eggs and stir gently to combine with the bacon and sauerkraut mixture.
6. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until eggs are set.
7. Optional: sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and return to oven for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until melted.
Cooking Time: 17-22 minutes
Swiss Sauerkraut and Cheese Tart
This savory tart combines the tangy flavors of sauerkraut with melted Swiss cheese, perfect for a unique appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup grated Swiss cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together sauerkraut and butter until well combined.
4. Spread the sauerkraut mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle Swiss cheese evenly over the sauerkraut.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape.
7. Seal the edges by pressing with a fork or crimping with your fingers.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sauerkraut and Ground Beef Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of tangy sauerkraut, savory ground beef, and creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until cooked through.
3. Add chopped onion, garlic, and sauerkraut to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. In a separate bowl, mix mashed potatoes and paprika.
5. Assemble the casserole by spreading the meat mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by the potato mixture, and finally topping with shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet and Sour Sauerkraut Meatballs
Add a tangy twist to traditional meatballs with this sweet and sour sauerkraut recipe. Perfect for game day gatherings or as an appetizer, these bite-sized treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Form into 1-inch (2.5 cm) meatballs. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a small bowl, mix together sauerkraut and sweet chili sauce.
6. Serve warm meatballs with sauerkraut mixture spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Polish Sauerkraut and Sausage Stew (Bigos)
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the tanginess of sauerkraut with the savory goodness of sausage, perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, sauerkraut, beef broth, and caraway seeds to the pot. Stir well to combine.
4. Return the cooked sausage to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the stew to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Easy Sauerkraut and Potato Pancakes
Easy Sauerkraut and Potato Pancakes Recipe Summary:
This recipe combines the tangy flavor of sauerkraut with the comfort of potato pancakes, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or brunch. The combination of crispy exterior and fluffy interior is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 large potato, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil or butter for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grated potato, chopped sauerkraut, onion, eggs, and flour. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil or butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop the potato mixture into the skillet.
4. Flatten the pancakes slightly with a spatula and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve hot with your favorite toppings or condiments.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
German Sauerkraut and Dumpling Bake
German Sauerkraut and Dumpling Bake: A Hearty, Comforting Delight
This traditional German dish combines the tangy flavor of sauerkraut with soft, fluffy dumplings and a rich sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a main course for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sauerkraut, drained
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, melted butter, milk, egg, salt, and caraway seeds. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Roll out the dough into small balls.
5. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
6. Add sauerkraut to the skillet; stir to combine with onion mixture.
7. Arrange dumplings on top of the sauerkraut mixture in a single layer.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Serves: 4-6 people
Smoked Sausage and Sauerkraut Pizza
Elevate your pizza game with this unique combination of smoked sausage and tangy sauerkraut. This savory pizza is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 4 smoked sausages (such as andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread sauerkraut over the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Arrange sliced smoked sausage on top of sauerkraut.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the sausage.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the pizza.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Celebrate the flavors of Eastern Europe with these 18 savory canned sauerkraut recipes! From classic combinations like slow-cooked sausages and pierogi, to comforting casseroles and hearty stews, there’s something for everyone. Discover how sauerkraut adds depth and tanginess to dishes like Reuben casserole, German soup with smoked sausage, and Hungarian pork rolls. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, these recipes are sure to become new favorites. Get ready to taste the delicious possibilities!
