Sauerkraut, that tangy and delicious fermented cabbage condiment, is a staple in many cuisines around the world. When paired with rich and savory meats, it’s a match made in heaven! In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 mouth-watering sauerkraut recipes that combine perfectly with various meats to create hearty and satisfying dishes.
From classic combinations like slow cooker kielbasa and sauerkraut, to innovative twists like pork roast with sauerkraut and apples, there’s something for everyone in this collection of recipes. Whether you’re a fan of German sausages, Polish bigos, or good old-fashioned American comfort food, we’ve got you covered. So grab your apron, sharpen your knives, and get ready to dive into the wonderful world of sauerkraut and meat pairings!
Slow Cooker Kielbasa and Sauerkraut
This hearty slow cooker recipe combines the flavors of kielbasa sausage, tangy sauerkraut, and aromatic spices for a comforting and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb kielbasa sausage
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup caraway seeds
– 1 tsp ground mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the sliced onion at the bottom of a slow cooker.
2. Add the kielbasa sausage on top of the onion.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the sauerkraut, caraway seeds, and ground mustard.
4. Pour the sauerkraut mixture over the sausage.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Pork Roast with Sauerkraut and Apples
This classic German-inspired dish combines the rich flavors of pork roast, tangy sauerkraut, and sweet apples. Perfect for a cozy winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork roast
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Season the pork roast with salt, pepper, and caraway seeds.
3. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork roast until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the sliced onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the sauerkraut, apples, and garlic to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Place the pork roast back into the pot, cover with a lid or foil, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Roast for 2-3 hours or until the pork is tender and the sauerkraut is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
German Sausage and Sauerkraut Skillet
This classic skillet dish is a staple of German cuisine, packed with flavorful sausage, tangy sauerkraut, and crispy potatoes. It’s an easy and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb German-style sausage (such as Bratwurst or Knockwurst), sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the sliced potatoes to the skillet; cook for 5-7 minutes or until they start to brown.
5. Add the sauerkraut to the skillet, stirring to combine with the potatoes and onions. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Return the sausage to the skillet, stirring to combine with the sauerkraut mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Reuben Casserole with Corned Beef and Sauerkraut
A twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, this casserole combines the flavors of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing in a hearty, comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound corned beef, thinly sliced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup Thousand Island dressing
– 6 slices of rye bread, cubed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the corned beef, onion, and caraway seeds until the beef is lightly browned.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the sauerkraut and cook until heated through.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the bread cubes in the bottom.
5. Top with the corned beef mixture, followed by the sauerkraut mixture, and finally the Swiss cheese.
6. Drizzle with Thousand Island dressing and top with remaining bread cubes.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Smoked Sausage and Sauerkraut Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of flavors, combining the smoky richness of smoked sausage with the tangy crunch of sauerkraut. It’s an easy and satisfying meal for a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add smoked sausage and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in sauerkraut, chicken broth, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, with heavy cream or half-and-half optional.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pork Chops with Sauerkraut and Bacon
This recipe combines the rich flavors of pork chops, tangy sauerkraut, and crispy bacon for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1 inch thick)
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
3. Remove the cooked bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4. Add the minced garlic and sauerkraut to the same skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the sauerkraut is slightly caramelized.
5. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper. Place them on top of the sauerkraut mixture in the skillet.
6. Drizzle the olive oil over the pork chops and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
7. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
8. Serve with crispy bacon on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Sauerkraut Stuffed Peppers
This hearty dish combines tender beef, tangy sauerkraut, and sweet bell peppers for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked sauerkraut, drained
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add cooked sauerkraut, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the beef mixture, filling to the top.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Polish Bigos (Hunter’s Stew) with Meat and Sauerkraut
This hearty stew is a staple of Polish cuisine, made with a variety of meats, sauerkraut, and vegetables. Bigos is a slow-cooked dish that simmers for hours, allowing the flavors to meld together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef, pork, or sausage, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the meat in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, sauerkraut, beef broth, tomato paste, and caraway seeds. Stir well.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours or overnight.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours or overnight
Bratwurst and Sauerkraut Bake
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of traditional German cuisine with ease and simplicity. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 bratwurst sausages
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the bratwurst over medium-high heat until browned on both sides.
3. In a separate pot, combine sauerkraut, caraway seeds, and milk. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until heated through.
4. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange half of the cooked bratwurst slices in the bottom. Top with sauerkraut mixture, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
5. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Dot the top with butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pork Ribs with Sauerkraut and Caraway
This classic German-inspired dish combines the fall-off-the-bone tenderness of pork ribs with the tangy crunch of sauerkraut and the subtle flavor of caraway. A perfect combination for a cozy dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork ribs
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the ribs with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the sauerkraut, caraway seeds, and remaining butter to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Transfer the ribs to a baking dish and spoon the sauerkraut mixture over them.
6. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until the ribs are tender and falling off the bone.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Hungarian Sauerkraut and Sausage Goulash
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the tanginess of sauerkraut with the savory goodness of Hungarian sausage. This classic dish is a staple in many Hungarian households, perfect for a cozy dinner or a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Hungarian sausage (such as kolbász or szalámi), sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the sauerkraut, diced tomatoes, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Return the sausage to the pot and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef Brisket with Sauerkraut and Onions
This hearty dish combines the tender flavor of slow-cooked beef brisket with the tangy zip of sauerkraut and caramelized onions. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef brisket
– 1 head of sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the brisket with salt and pepper.
3. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket for 2-3 minutes on each side, then set aside.
4. Add the sliced onions to the pot and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20-25 minutes).
5. Add the sauerkraut to the pot and stir to combine with the onions.
6. Return the brisket to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Cook for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Pierogi Bake
This hearty pierogi bake combines the savory flavors of Polish sausage and tangy sauerkraut with a crispy, golden-brown crust. Perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pierogi (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 pound Kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pierogi according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook Kielbasa sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add sauerkraut and butter to the skillet, stirring until combined. Season with salt and pepper.
5. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange cooked pierogi in a single layer.
6. Top pierogi with Kielbasa and sauerkraut mixture, followed by grated cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork Tenderloin with Sauerkraut and Mustard Sauce
Pork Tenderloin with Sauerkraut and Mustard Sauce: A flavorful and savory dish that combines the tenderloin’s juicy sweetness with the tanginess of sauerkraut and a hint of spicy mustard.
Ingredients:
• 1 (6-8 oz) pork tenderloin
• 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the pork tenderloin with salt, pepper, and olive oil.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, and apple cider vinegar.
4. Place the sauerkraut on one side of the pork, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Brush the mustard mixture evenly over the sauerkraut.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Pork Hocks with Sauerkraut
This recipe is a perfect blend of tender pork and tangy sauerkraut, smoked to perfection. With just a few ingredients and some patience, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork hocks
– 1 head of sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork hocks, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Place the pork hocks in the smoker, close the lid, and smoke for 8 hours or until tender.
5. Meanwhile, heat the sauerkraut in a saucepan with a little water until it’s warm and slightly caramelized.
6. Serve the smoked pork hocks with the sauerkraut spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 8 hours
Corned Beef and Sauerkraut Hash
A hearty breakfast or brunch option that combines the flavors of corned beef, sauerkraut, and crispy potatoes. This recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup diced cooked corned beef
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine corned beef, sauerkraut, potatoes, and onion.
3. Dot the top with butter and season with salt and pepper.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the corned beef is heated through.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Polish Kapusta with Kielbasa and Sauerkraut
This classic Polish dish combines the tangy flavors of sauerkraut, savory kielbasa, and hearty potatoes for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound kielbasa (Polish sausage), sliced
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: caraway seeds for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the kielbasa slices in butter until browned.
3. Add sliced potatoes to the skillet and cook until they start to soften.
4. Stir in the sauerkraut, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional caraway seeds if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes
Beef and Sauerkraut Dumplings
These hearty dumplings are a perfect comfort food for any occasion. Tender beef and tangy sauerkraut come together in a flavorful filling, wrapped in a soft and fluffy dough.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, beaten
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, sauerkraut, onion, garlic, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and egg. Gradually add water as needed to form a soft dough.
4. Divide the dough into small balls and flatten each slightly.
5. Place about 1 tablespoon of beef mixture in the center of each dough circle. Fold and press edges together to seal.
6. Place dumplings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Summary
Savory sauerkraut recipes with meat delights are here! Discover 18 mouth-watering dishes that combine the tangy flavor of sauerkraut with juicy meats. From classic German-inspired dishes like Slow Cooker Kielbasa and Sauerkraut to hearty soups like Smoked Sausage and Sauerkraut Soup, there’s something for every taste bud. Explore other recipes like Pork Roast with Sauerkraut and Apples, Reuben Casserole with Corned Beef and Sauerkraut, and more! These easy-to-make dishes are perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
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