Potato, Sauerkraut, and Kielbasa Casserole is a Quick & Comforting Dish
This dish reminds me of home—a warm, hearty meal that fills the house with a savory aroma as it bakes. It’s a recipe I often turn to for its simplicity and satisfying flavors. The beauty of this casserole lies in how effortlessly it comes together. You can prepare everything in minutes, layer the ingredients, and let the oven do the rest of the work. The combination of tender potatoes, tangy sauerkraut, and smoky kielbasa is just irresistible. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together around the table, whether for a family dinner or a cozy gathering. And the leftovers? They taste even better the next day, making it a practical choice for busy weeks.
Did You Know?
Sauerkraut, a staple in this Potato, Sauerkraut, and Kielbasa Casserole, has been around for over 2,000 years. Originally developed as a method of preserving cabbage, it is rich in probiotics, which support digestive health. Though Germany is often credited with popularizing sauerkraut, it has since become beloved in many cuisines across the world. Sauerkraut's tangy flavor, along with the savory kielbasa, creates a balanced, flavorful dish that is both nutritious and comforting.
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 lb kielbasa, sliced
- 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Personal Tip: Grease the dish well to ensure nothing sticks to the sides and for easy serving.
Prepare the Casserole Layers:
In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly. Top with half of the sliced kielbasa, sauerkraut, and onion. Sprinkle half of the minced garlic over the layers. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, kielbasa, sauerkraut, onion, and garlic.
Personal Tip: Be sure to drain and rinse the sauerkraut to balance the flavor and avoid excess salt.
Prepare the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.
Personal Tip: Adjust the mustard amount for a stronger or milder tang, depending on your taste preference.
Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the sauce evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish. Use a spatula to spread the sauce, ensuring it covers all the layers.
Personal Tip: Make sure the sauce is evenly spread to allow it to penetrate through all layers for an even flavor.
Bake:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
Personal Tip: Removing the foil during the last part of baking helps to crisp the top for a delightful texture contrast.
Serve:
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Personal Tip: For an extra touch, serve with a dollop of sour cream or horseradish for added richness.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 300; Fat: 16g; Saturated Fat: 6g; Carbohydrates: 30g; Fiber: 4g; Sugars: 3g; Protein: 12g
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
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Buy Ingredients in Bulk: Purchase potatoes, kielbasa, and sauerkraut in larger quantities to save money. You can store these staples for a longer time, reducing overall costs.
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Use Affordable Cuts of Meat: Kielbasa is a flavorful smoked sausage and generally more affordable than many other meats. Its rich flavor allows you to use less while still getting a robust taste.
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Repurpose Leftovers: This casserole is even better the next day, making it a great leftover meal. Store individual portions in the fridge for a quick lunch or dinner later in the week.
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Grow Your Own Herbs: Fresh parsley makes a simple yet flavorful garnish. Growing your own herbs can save money and add freshness to your meals.
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Substitute Ingredients: You can easily swap pork kielbasa for turkey or chicken sausage if preferred, and if you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own sauerkraut to save even more.
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Make Ahead and Freeze: You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and freeze it before baking. This saves time and ensures you always have a hearty meal ready for busy nights.
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Shop Seasonal Sales: Look for sales on potatoes and onions, especially during the fall when prices are typically lower. Stock up and store them in a cool, dry place for long-term use.
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Versatile Baking Dish: Use the same baking dish for various recipes, reducing the need for multiple types of cookware, saving space, and cutting down on kitchen clutter.
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Cook Multiple Dishes Simultaneously: If you’re already using the oven, take advantage of the heat by preparing another dish to bake alongside the casserole, saving energy and time.
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Enjoy with Friends and Family: Casseroles are the perfect dish to share. Invite guests over and enjoy a delicious homemade meal together without spending too much.
Let's Learn About Different Sauerkraut Varieties
Sauerkraut has evolved into various forms around the world. Traditionally, sauerkraut is made by fermenting cabbage with salt, which encourages the growth of beneficial bacteria known as probiotics. These probiotics support gut health, but store-bought sauerkraut often contains preservatives that can reduce its probiotic benefits. Always check labels for added preservatives like sodium benzoate or sulfites, which can diminish the nutritional value. Look for naturally fermented sauerkraut without these additives for the best health benefits.
There are flavored varieties of sauerkraut, often incorporating ingredients like caraway seeds, beets, or juniper berries for added taste. Korean kimchi, which is a spicier version of fermented cabbage, also offers probiotic benefits with a kick of heat. Opting for unpasteurized, raw sauerkraut ensures you’re getting the live probiotics that come from natural fermentation.