If you’re looking for a comfort food recipe that packs a punch of flavor and feels like a warm hug, this Hearty Sauerkraut Casserole with Ground Meat and Cheese Recipe is exactly what you need. I first discovered this dish during a chilly weekend when nothing else satisfied the craving for something rich and satisfying. The combination of tangy sauerkraut, robust ground meat, and creamy melted cheese just works like a charm—trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

What makes this recipe stand out is how it effortlessly balances savory, sour, and a hint of sweetness, topped off with ooey-gooey cheese that brings it all together. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or whenever you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. I love making this when the weather cools down—it’s basically like a kitchen-sized sweater in an oven dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Hearty Sauerkraut Casserole with Ground Meat and Cheese Recipe lies in how these simple ingredients come together to create layers of flavor. When shopping, I always look for good-quality sauerkraut and fresh ground meat to make all the difference.

Wide egg noodles: These give the casserole a nice hearty base and hold the sauce well.
Salt: Essential for seasoning everything just right.
Ground venison (or other ground meat): I prefer venison for its lean, gamey flavor, but beef, pork, or turkey work wonderfully too.
Yellow onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the meat mixture.
Sauerkraut: The star ingredient – tangy and bright, it balances the richness of the meat and cheese.
Dry mustard: A little kick that complements the sauerkraut’s tang.
Caraway seeds (optional): They add a lovely aromatic touch if you’re feeling adventurous.
Ground black pepper: For that essential peppery warmth throughout the dish.
Brown sugar: Just a hint to mellow out the sauerkraut’s acidity.
Whole peeled tomatoes (canned): I like using them crushed by hand for a fresh sauce texture; canned tomatoes keep things easy year-round.
Grated cheese (Swiss, Gouda, Gruyere): Melts perfectly and adds the luscious richness that makes this casserole irresistible.

Variations

One of the best parts about the Hearty Sauerkraut Casserole with Ground Meat and Cheese Recipe is how flexible it is. I’ve played with it quite a bit, and you can totally tailor it to your taste or what you have on hand.

Vegetarian variation: I’ve swapped out meat for hearty mushrooms and added extra cheese – surprisingly satisfying and perfect for Meatless Mondays.
Spicy kick: Adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne can wake up the flavors if you love a little heat.
Different cheeses: Mixing Swiss with sharp cheddar or Parmesan gives it a unique twist every time I make it.
Ground meat options: Using a mix of pork and beef creates a juicier casserole with great flavor complexity.
Add veggies: Sometimes I toss in some sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms to bulk it up and sneak in some color.

How to Make Hearty Sauerkraut Casserole with Ground Meat and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Cook the noodles and prep the meat

Start by boiling the wide egg noodles in salted water until they’re just tender—al dente works best here so they don’t get mushy once baked. While the noodles cook, heat a large skillet over medium heat and brown your ground meat along with the chopped yellow onion. I like to keep stirring to break the meat into small bits and cook until everything is nicely caramelized. Be sure to drain any excess fat if you’re using a higher-fat meat.

Step 2: Combine flavorful ingredients

Once your meat and onions are ready, stir in the sauerkraut, dry mustard, caraway seeds (if using), black pepper, and brown sugar. Let everything cook together for about 5 minutes so the flavors melt into each other—it’s a nice chance to smell that incredible sauerkraut aroma filling your kitchen. Then, gently fold in your canned whole peeled tomatoes, crushing them as you mix for a fresh, chunky sauce texture. Simmer for a bit to thicken things up.

Step 3: Assemble and bake the casserole

Drain the noodles and add them to your meat and sauerkraut mixture, stirring everything until well combined. Transfer this hearty mixture into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the grated cheese generously over the top—the cheese topping is what makes this Hearty Sauerkraut Casserole with Ground Meat and Cheese Recipe feel indulgent and satisfying. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on the edges.

How to Serve Hearty Sauerkraut Casserole with Ground Meat and Cheese Recipe

Hearty Sauerkraut Casserole with Ground Meat and Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

I like to top it off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and a fresh bite that cuts through the richness. A little dollop of sour cream on the side works wonders if you want something extra creamy with each bite.

Side Dishes

This casserole stands well on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans balances the heaviness nicely. If you’re in the mood for more carbs, I love serving it with rustic rye bread to soak up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, I’ve baked individual portions in ramekins and topped them with a sprinkle of panko crumbs before baking for an added crunch. It impresses guests and makes serving a breeze. Another fun idea is layering the casserole in a clear glass baking dish so you can see all the delicious layers of noodles, meat, sauerkraut, and cheese.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Whenever I have leftovers, I let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days without any loss in flavor or texture, which makes it perfect for quick lunches or dinners during a busy week.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this casserole successfully, usually portioned into individual containers. Just freeze before baking or after baking and cooling, depending on your schedule. It reheats beautifully, and freezing actually helps the flavors meld even more.

Reheating

To reheat, I prefer using the oven at 350°F to keep the cheese crispy and the casserole evenly warmed through. A quick zap in the microwave works in a pinch but might make the cheese a bit rubbery. Cover the casserole loosely with foil to prevent over-browning while reheating if needed.

FAQs

Can I use another type of ground meat for this casserole?

Absolutely! While I love using ground venison for its rich flavor, ground beef, pork, turkey, or even chicken can all be great substitutes. Just adjust cooking times as needed to ensure your meat is fully cooked and flavorful.
Do I need to drain the sauerkraut?

It’s a good idea to lightly drain the sauerkraut to avoid excess moisture that could make the casserole soggy. However, don’t rinse it—you want to keep that delicious tang that sauerkraut provides.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes! Just swap out the wide egg noodles for gluten-free pasta, and double-check that your other ingredients like mustard and canned tomatoes don’t contain any hidden gluten. The casserole will taste just as comforting.
How long does this casserole keep in the refrigerator?

Stored properly in an airtight container, leftovers will stay fresh for up to 4 days. I find it’s best enjoyed within that window for optimal flavor and texture.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready, just pop it into the oven to bake. It’s a great time-saver for busy days.

Final Thoughts

This Hearty Sauerkraut Casserole with Ground Meat and Cheese Recipe has become a go-to for me whenever I want a meal that’s both comforting and full of character. It’s one of those dishes that feels like home, even on the busiest days. I really hope you give it a try—you might even find yourself making it a regular in your kitchen too. Trust me, once you’ve had this bubbly, tangy, cheesy goodness, nothing else quite hits the spot the same way!