13 Delicious Uses for Sauerkraut

Beer-Glazed Brats and Sauerkraut
Photo by lutzflcat. Photo: lutzflcat

Fermented cabbage might not sound all that appealing at first, yet it's a staple in many cuisines, from Korean kimchi to German sauerkraut. And these pungent fermented crucifers are currently experiencing a renaissance, thanks to their health benefits. The helpful probiotics and fiber in sauerkraut keep your gut healthy, and as it's naturally low in calories, you can enjoy as much as you like.

You can certainly buy your sauerkraut at the grocery store, but you can also make your own. We love sauerkraut as an extra flavoring in any sandwich or salad, but you can also dress it up in these 13 delicious recipes that use sauerkraut.

01 of 13

Reuben Sandwich

Reuben Sandwich II
abapplez

This classic deli recipe is made with a combination of corned beef, Swiss cheese, Russian dressing, and, of course, kraut. Piled onto rye bread, it's a delicious lunchtime option.

02 of 13

Pastrami-Spiced Duck Breast Reuben

Pastrami-Spiced Duck Breast Reuben
Chef John

For something slightly different, this play on the classic reuben features a spiced, seared duck breast. While the original recipe calls for plain, unfermented cabbage, sauerkraut will lend a great zing to the final dish.

03 of 13

Bavarian Sauerkraut

Bavarian Sauerkraut
Michael Kocmit

You don't need to do much to your sauerkraut to make it sing. In this Bavarian recipe, kraut is cooked in a sweet-and-savory combo of bacon fat, brown sugar, and caraway for a distinctive side to enjoy alongside pork chops or sausages.

04 of 13

Seattle Cream Cheese Dogs

Seattle Cream Cheese Dogs
Pictured: Seattle Cream Cheese Dogs. BETHANYWEATHERSBY

Did you know that cream cheese and hot dogs are the perfect match? These Seattle-style dogs are served on buttered buns with cream cheese, onions, and, of course, a spoonful of kraut.

05 of 13

Hot Baked Reuben Dip

Hot Baked Reuben Dip
Chef John

Take all of the delicious flavors of a reuben and convert them into a dip! In this rich, gooey recipe, pastrami, pickled relish, and sauerkraut mingle with three different cheeses. Spread on rye crackers for even more authentic flavor.

06 of 13

Sauerkraut Salad

a bowl of yellowed sauerkraut with pieces of carrot and green bell pepper
Caroline C

Instead of cole slaw, consider serving this tangy sauerkraut salad at your next picnic or cookout. Sauerkraut joins carrots, celery, and pickled pimento peppers for a flavorful salad that's even better when made in advance.

07 of 13

Reuben Crescent Bake

Reuben Crescent Bake
Molly

Take the classic flavors of a reuben and bake them up with buttery crescent rolls, and you've got this delightful casserole. Consider serving it with extra thousand island dressing for dipping and dunking.

08 of 13

Sauerkraut Balls

Sauerkraut Balls
Lourdes

These deep-fried bites are filled with tangy sauerkraut and a rich combination of chopped ham and chopped corned beef. Rolled in breadcrumbs and deep-fried, they're an excellent addition to any cocktail party.

09 of 13

Beer Glazed Brats and Sauerkraut

Beer-Glazed Brats and Sauerkraut
Photo by lutzflcat. lutzflcat

Sauerkraut and sausage are a natural pair. In this recipe, bratwurst are glazed in a combination of lager, brown sugar, and mustard. Sauerkraut is tossed in the leftover sauce before being served alongside.

10 of 13

Reuben Pizza

Reuben Pizza
Molly

Italian cuisine meets Germany in this pizza recipe, where thousand island dressing and Swiss cheese stand in for tomato and mozzarella. A trip through the oven makes the sauerkraut crispy and slightly caramelized.

11 of 13

Reuben Noodle Bake

Reuben Noodle Bake
fabeverydayblog

Egg noodles, corned beef, and sauerkraut mingle in this delicious casserole topped with a crispy layer of Saltine cracker crumbs and gooey Swiss cheese.

12 of 13

Polish Sauerkraut and Carrot Salad

Polish Sauerkraut and Carrot Salad
Olenka

This crisp, tangy salad is a common winter staple in Poland. To make it, sauerkraut and grated carrot are combined with fresh apple and onion. The sweet-and-savory salad is the perfect side to roast pork or roast chicken.

13 of 13

Kraut Bierocks

Kraut Bierocks
Mia Poulsen

These sweet, yeasted rolls are filled with a delightful combination of ground beef, sausage, sauerkraut, and two kinds of cheese. The perfect main dish or savory snack!

Was this page helpful?

You’ll Also Love