When it comes to adding a burst of flavor and nutrition to your meals, few ingredients can rival the humble can of sauerkraut. This fermented cabbage has been a staple in many cuisines for centuries, particularly in German and Eastern European cooking. But its uses extend far beyond traditional dishes like sausages and pierogies. With its tangy, slightly sour taste and multitude of health benefits, canned sauerkraut is the perfect addition to a wide range of recipes.
From hearty skillets and stews to creative twists on classic comfort foods, we’ve rounded up 20 delicious and easy-to-make recipes that showcase the versatility of canned sauerkraut. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping centerpiece for your next gathering, these flavorful dishes are sure to satisfy.
Classic Sauerkraut and Sausage Skillet
A hearty, comforting skillet dish that combines the tangy flavors of sauerkraut with savory sausage and crispy potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet or hot Italian sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp 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 the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the sliced potatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until they are tender and lightly browned.
5. Stir in the sauerkraut and cooked sausage. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Sauerkraut Soup with Potatoes
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the tanginess of sauerkraut with the creaminess of potatoes, perfect for a chilly day. This recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the chopped sauerkraut and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the diced potatoes, broth, and salt to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
5. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tangy Sauerkraut and Pork Chops
A classic combination of sweet and savory flavors, this recipe pairs tender pork chops with a tangy sauerkraut topping. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1 inch thick)
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons caraway seeds
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced cabbage, caraway seeds, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and water.
3. Massage the mixture with your hands until the cabbage is slightly softened and the liquid has been absorbed.
4. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
5. Grill or pan-fry pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve pork chops topped with tangy sauerkraut.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Reuben Casserole with Canned Sauerkraut
A twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, this casserole combines the flavors of corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese in a easy-to-make dish perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound corned beef, sliced
– 1 cup canned sauerkraut, drained
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
– 1/4 cup butter
– 6 slices rye bread, cubed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the corned beef, onion, and garlic until the onion is translucent.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Add the sauerkraut to the melted butter and stir until heated through.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, create a layer of cubed rye bread, followed by a layer of corned beef mixture, then a layer of sauerkraut mixture, and finally a layer of Swiss cheese.
6. Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with a layer of Swiss cheese on top.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Easy Sauerkraut and Kielbasa Bake
Easy Sauerkraut and Kielbasa Bake: A hearty, one-pan meal that combines the tanginess of sauerkraut with the savory flavor of kielbasa. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the kielbasa over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the sauerkraut, cheese, brown sugar, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
German-Style Sauerkraut with Apples and Bacon
This classic German recipe combines the tanginess of sauerkraut with the sweetness of apples and the smokiness of bacon, creating a deliciously balanced flavor profile. Perfect as a side dish or used as an ingredient in other recipes.
Ingredients:
– 5 lbs (2.3 kg) Sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 apple, peeled and chopped (Granny Smith or Braeburn work well)
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine sauerkraut, onion, and caraway seeds.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent (about 10 minutes).
3. Add diced bacon and cook until crispy (about 5 minutes).
4. Stir in chopped apple and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until flavors have melded together and sauerkraut has reached desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Sauerkraut and Ribs
Savor the tangy flavors of sauerkraut-infused ribs, slow-cooked to perfection in your crock pot. This hearty recipe combines the pungency of sauerkraut with the tender juiciness of pork ribs.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound beef or pork ribs
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat your slow cooker on low.
- Rub the ribs with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- In a separate bowl, mix sauerkraut, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar.
- Place the ribs in the slow cooker, followed by the sauerkraut mixture.
- Cook for 8-10 hours or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Vegetarian Sauerkraut Pierogi Filling
Transform traditional pierogi fillings with this creative vegetarian twist! This tangy and flavorful sauerkraut filling is a perfect accompaniment to pillowy pierogies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked, mashed potatoes
– 1/2 cup sauerkraut (drained)
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, sauerkraut, cheddar cheese, dill, and caraway seeds.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the filling is smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None required – simply store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.
Sauerkraut and Mushroom Stuffed Chicken
This recipe combines the tangy flavors of sauerkraut with the earthiness of mushrooms, all wrapped up in a tender chicken breast. A perfect blend of savory and sweet!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (button or cremini)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix sauerkraut, mushrooms, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the sauerkraut mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
6. Place stuffed chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Sauerkraut and Bratwurst Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the savory flavor of bratwurst with the tangy kick of spicy sauerkraut, all wrapped up in a quick and easy stir-fry. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb bratwurst sausage, sliced
– 1 cup spicy sauerkraut (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the bratwurst slices and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tbsp of oil and sauté the onion and garlic until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the spicy sauerkraut to the pan and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Return the bratwurst to the pan and stir to combine with the sauerkraut mixture.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and caraway seeds.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sauerkraut and Potato Pancakes
These crispy potato pancakes get a boost of flavor from the tangy, fermented goodness of sauerkraut. Perfect as a side dish or main course, these savory treats are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup sauerkraut, finely chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine potatoes, sauerkraut, onion, eggs, and flour. Mix well.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the potato mixture into the oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 20 minutes
Quick Sauerkraut and Hot Dog Skillet
Get ready for a flavorful and satisfying meal with this quick sauerkraut and hot dog skillet recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb hot dogs, sliced
– 1 cup sauerkraut (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced hot dogs and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until browned.
3. Remove the hot dogs from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the onion is translucent.
5. Add the sauerkraut to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
6. Return the hot dogs to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauerkraut mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hungarian Sauerkraut Goulash
This hearty Hungarian dish combines the tangy flavor of sauerkraut with tender beef and a rich broth, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in the paprika and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the sauerkraut, broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the beef is tender.
5. Serve hot, topped with sour cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sauerkraut and Cheese Stuffed Bread
A twist on traditional stuffed bread, this recipe combines the tangy flavors of sauerkraut with melted cheese for a delightful savory treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf Italian or French bread (about 12-14 inches long)
– 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the bread in half lengthwise.
3. In a bowl, mix together sauerkraut, cheese, and butter until well combined.
4. Spread the mixture evenly onto one half of the bread.
5. Fold the other half over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush the top with beaten egg and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tangy Sauerkraut and Turkey Sandwich
This refreshing sandwich combines the tanginess of sauerkraut with the savory flavor of turkey breast, all wrapped up in a crispy baguette.
Ingredients:
– 4 oz. cooked turkey breast
– 2 tbsp. sauerkraut
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– 1 baguette, sliced
Instructions:
1. Lay the sliced baguette on a flat surface.
2. Spread a layer of Dijon mustard on each slice.
3. Top with turkey breast slices.
4. Spoon sauerkraut over the turkey.
5. Add shredded cheddar cheese and chopped cilantro if desired.
6. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the top slice of baguette on each.
Cooking Time: None required, as this sandwich is ready to serve!
One-Pot Sauerkraut and Pork Stew
A flavorful and nutritious meal that combines the tanginess of sauerkraut with tender pork, all in one pot. This stew is perfect for a cozy night in or a comforting meal on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add sauerkraut, chicken broth, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return pork to the pot and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and cook for 30-40 minutes or until pork is tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sauerkraut and Onion Pizza
Get ready to elevate your pizza game with this tangy and savory combination of sauerkraut, caramelized onions, and melted mozzarella.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. In a pan, caramelize the onions over medium heat for 20-25 minutes or until dark golden brown.
4. Spread the sauerkraut evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border.
5. Top with caramelized onions, mozzarella cheese, and caraway seeds (if using).
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sweet and Sour Sauerkraut Meatballs
This recipe combines the tanginess of sauerkraut with the sweetness of a sauce, resulting in a unique flavor profile that complements the savory meatballs. Perfect for a party or game-day gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup sauerkraut, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup sweet and sour sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a saucepan, combine sauerkraut and sweet and sour sauce. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Add meatballs to the sauce and toss to coat. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sauerkraut and Smoked Sausage Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines the tanginess of sauerkraut with the smokiness of sausage, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked sausage (such as kielbasa), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add sliced sausage; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until browned.
3. Add sauerkraut, chicken broth, and cream (if using). Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 20-25 minutes, or until flavors have melded together and the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Sauerkraut with Caraway Seeds
Transform sauerkraut into a caramelized, sweet-and-savory delight by baking it with caraway seeds. This recipe is perfect as a side dish or used as an ingredient in other recipes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine sauerkraut, butter, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix until the sauerkraut is evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Transfer the mixture to a small baking dish or ramekin.
5. Bake for 30-40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until the sauerkraut is caramelized and golden brown.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get creative with your canned sauerkraut and elevate your meals with these 20 flavorful recipes! From classic comfort food to international-inspired dishes, there’s something for every occasion. Try adding sauerkraut to your sausage skillet, soup, or pork chops for a tangy twist. Or, use it as a topping for pierogi, pancakes, or even pizza. You can also make stuffed bread, meatballs, or ribs with the help of this versatile ingredient. Whether you’re in the mood for something hearty and comforting or light and easy, these sauerkraut recipes are sure to please.
