How to Cook Sauerkraut + 70 Recipes

Sauerkraut, often referred to as "sour cabbage," stands out as a culinary jewel from German traditions. The rich history and cultural significance of this dish are as deep as its unique tangy taste.

Born from the meticulous fermentation process, this simple yet delectable dish boasts an array of nutrients. Laden with probiotics, vitamin C, fiber, potassium, and calcium, sauerkraut is not only a flavorful addition to many dishes but also a powerhouse of nutrition.

This fermented favorite is more than just about its arresting taste; its health benefits are notably commendable. The prominence of probiotics in sauerkraut makes it a champion for gut health.

When sauerkraut is integrated into meals, it not only adds depth in flavors but also brings an age-old culinary heritage to the forefront. Its unparalleled ability to enhance various dishes, from hearty mains to light side accompaniments, is a testament to the adaptability and allure of this fermented cabbage creation.

Here are 70 sauerkraut recipes and a featured one that explains exactly how to cook it!

Contents

• Quick and Easy Sauerkraut Pasta
• Bavarian Sauerkraut
• Sausage and Sauerkraut
• German Sauerkraut
• Homemade Sauerkraut in a Mason Jar
• Homemade German Sauerkraut in a Mason Jar
• Sauerkraut and Apples
• German Sauerkraut Casserole with Bacon and Brown Sugar
• Easy Kielbasa and Sauerkraut
• Simple Chicken & Sauerkraut
• Beer Bacon Sauerkraut
• Polish Sauerkraut Soup (Kapusniak)
• German Pork Chops and Sauerkraut
• Baseball Sauerkraut
• Country Style Pork Spare Ribs and Sauerkraut
• Wellness Bowl
• Kielbasa & Sauerkraut in a Crock Pot
• Traditional German Sauerkraut
• Homemade Sauerkraut For Beginners
• Sauerkraut
• Vegetarian Reuben Sandwich (With Seitan Corned Beef)
• Fried Sauerkraut With Bacon
• Easy Dill Pickle Sauerkraut
• Pork Roast and Sauerkraut
• Traditional German Sauerkraut Salad – Oma's Sauerkrautsalat
• Easy Apple Sauerkraut Side Dish
• Easy Pork & Sauerkraut
• Bigos Stew (Polish Hunter’s Stew)
• Quick Overnight Sauerkraut
• Reuben Sandwich with Homemade Russian Dressing
• One Pot Sauerkraut & Sausage With Rice
• German Knockwurst Sausage Sandwich
• Chocolate Sauerkraut Cake
• Slow Cooker Pork And Sauerkraut
• Slow Cooker Reuben Sandwiches
• Fuczki Polish Sauerkraut Pancakes
• German Sauerkraut Soup (Sauerkrautsupe)
• Apple-Bacon Sauerkraut
• Homemade Sauerkraut: Purple Cabbage and Carrot
• German Sauerkraut Balls
• German Meatballs With Sauerkraut
• Sauerkraut and Dumplings with Kielbasa
• Turmeric Sauerkraut
• Baked Pork Chops and Sauerkraut
• Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Skillet
• Easy Gluten-Free Baked Sauerkraut Balls
• Pork Roast With Sauerkraut & Dumplings
• Sauerkraut and Spare Ribs
• Reuben Meatballs
• Vegan Cabbage Rolls with Sauerkraut
• Potato & Sauerkraut Latkes
• Sauerkraut Chocolate Cake With Sour Cream Chocolate Frosting
• Reuben Casserole
• Sauerkraut Pizza
• Hot German Potatoes and Sauerkraut with Bacon Dressing
• Hot Dogs and Sauerkraut
• Sauerkraut Strudel With Smoked Bacon
• Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Sauerkraut
• Chicken & Red Cabbage Sauerkraut Tacos
• Hot Reuben Dip
• Polish Sauerkraut Bread
• Slovak Christmas Eve Mushroom Soup
• Szegediner Gulasch (German Sauerkraut Beef Goulash)
• Sauerkraut Frittata
• Corned Beef & Sauerkraut Quiche
• Bratwurst & Sauerkraut
• Cheesy Sauerkraut Brat Sliders
• Reuben-Style Cheeseburgers
• Reuben Hand Pies
• Pittsburgh Pierogy Nachos
• 📋 Recipe
• Frequently Asked Questions
• 💬 Comments

Quick and Easy Sauerkraut Pasta

This dish marries sauerkraut's tang with the hearty nature of pasta. The tomato paste and paprika lend a sweet depth, making it perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.

Bavarian Sauerkraut

This dish offers a tantalizing blend of fermented cabbage with Bavarian spices. A perfect side for hearty German meals, its tangy flavor complements roasted meats and potatoes.

Sausage and Sauerkraut

This hearty combination showcases smoked sausage and potatoes enveloped in flavorful sauerkraut juices. Enjoy it during chilly evenings for a fulfilling meal.

German Sauerkraut

This recipe takes traditional kraut to the next level. Apples and onions stir together with spices in a pan, resulting in a flavorful side dish that's rich in both vitamins and taste.

Homemade Sauerkraut in a Mason Jar

Embrace the authentic flavors of fermented cabbage. Enhanced by caraway seeds, this probiotic-rich sauerkraut pairs beautifully with a variety of meats and vegetables.

Homemade German Sauerkraut in a Mason Jar

Infused with juniper berries and mustard seeds, this kraut provides an authentic German twist. It's an ideal side dish, rich in fiber and essential nutrients, to complement hearty dishes.

Sauerkraut and Apples

Experience the delightful interplay between tart sauerkraut and sweet apples in this recipe. This combination makes a refreshing side dish or a light lunch.

German Sauerkraut Casserole with Bacon and Brown Sugar

Incorporating both savory bacon drippings and sweet brown sugar, this casserole is the epitome of flavor balance. It's perfect for family dinners when comfort food is in order.

Easy Kielbasa and Sauerkraut

Juicy kielbasa merges with savory sauerkraut in this simple dish. Pair it with a cold beer for a traditional Polish experience.

Simple Chicken & Sauerkraut

This dish brings together tender chicken with fermented cabbage for a wholesome meal. It’s great for those evenings when you crave something comforting.

Beer Bacon Sauerkraut

You can indulge in the rich flavors of bacon, beer, and sauerkraut with this recipe. It’s ideal for game nights or when you're hosting a hearty feast.

Polish Sauerkraut Soup (Kapusniak)

Warm up with this traditional Polish soup that combines sauerkraut's tanginess with heartwarming broth. Serve it with rye bread to enhance the experience.

German Pork Chops and Sauerkraut

Tender pork chops meet zesty sauerkraut in this German classic. It's a flavorful entree perfect for Sunday dinners or special occasions.

Baseball Sauerkraut

Using fresh cabbage and baseball-sized onions, this unique sauerkraut recipe incorporates the kick of jalapeño. The fermentation process infuses it with probiotics, making it a delicious gut-friendly side.

Country Style Pork Spare Ribs and Sauerkraut

This dish pairs the robust taste of pork spare ribs with the tartness of sauerkraut. This combo is perfect for those seeking a rustic, home-cooked meal reminiscent of countryside kitchens.

Wellness Bowl

Packed with nutrient-dense ingredients, this bowl is the epitome of health meets taste. It’s ideal for those days when your body craves a wholesome, nourishing meal.

Kielbasa & Sauerkraut in a Crock Pot

If you’re in the mood for a slow-cooked meal, this dish combines smoked kielbasa with tangy sauerkraut. A hint of sweetness from tomatoes balances the dish, making it a household favorite.

Traditional German Sauerkraut

Experience a taste of Germany with this sauerkraut recipe, where sour cabbage is elevated by apple and bacon. With a dash of maple syrup and optional juniper berries, it’s a celebration of flavors.

Homemade Sauerkraut For Beginners

This easy recipe requires just cabbage and salt, allowing nature's fermentation to work its magic. Rich in calcium and probiotics, it’s a great introduction to making sauerkraut at home.

Sauerkraut

Simple yet bursting with flavor, this sauerkraut offers the health benefits of lactic acid bacteria. A great source of vitamin C, it’s a timeless side dish that enhances any meal.

Vegetarian Reuben Sandwich (With Seitan Corned Beef)

This vegetarian twist on a Reuben offers a delightful balance of seitan corned beef and sauerkraut. Dive into this hearty sandwich whenever you want classic flavors without the meat.

Fried Sauerkraut With Bacon

Crisp bacon elevates the fermented goodness of sauerkraut in this recipe. A delightful side dish, it shines alongside grilled meats or as part of a brunch spread.

Easy Dill Pickle Sauerkraut

Combining the crunch of fresh cabbage with the piquancy of dill and garlic, this sauerkraut offers a twist on tradition. Ideal for picnics, it’s a side dish that impresses.

Pork Roast and Sauerkraut

Experience the savory depths of this dish as pork roast marries with sauerkraut for a delightful culinary experience. We recommend enjoying this pork roast during family gatherings or festive occasions.

Traditional German Sauerkraut Salad – Oma's Sauerkrautsalat

This refreshing salad celebrates Germany's culinary heritage. With crisp textures and tangy flavors, it's an ideal accompaniment to grilled meats.

Easy Apple Sauerkraut Side Dish

The subtle sweetness of apples complements the tang of sauerkraut in this side dish. A unique blend, it’s great alongside roast meats or hearty mains.

Easy Pork & Sauerkraut

Tender pork pieces and tangy sauerkraut come together in this easy recipe. With a sprinkle of paprika and optional red pepper, it’s a warming dish for cool evenings.

Bigos Stew (Polish Hunter’s Stew)

Rich and hearty, this Polish stew combines sausages, sauerkraut, and mushrooms. Polish beer or red wine gives it depth, making it perfect for gatherings or family meals.

Quick Overnight Sauerkraut

For those seeking a quicker sauerkraut with a longer shelf-life, this recipe is ideal. Red bell peppers and peppercorns give it a unique spin, enhancing its natural tang.

Reuben Sandwich with Homemade Russian Dressing

If you're craving a classic, this sandwich offers corned beef, sauerkraut, and creamy homemade dressing. Served on rye bread, it’s a lunchtime treat that always satisfies.

One Pot Sauerkraut & Sausage With Rice

This one-pot meal fuses sausages, sauerkraut, and rice. With a dash of oregano and ripe tomato, it’s a dish that brings comfort and flavor in equal measure.

German Knockwurst Sausage Sandwich

Experience a burst of flavors with knockwurst, sauerkraut, and a tantalizing 1000 islands sauce. Nestled in a pretzel bun, it's a treat that celebrates the best of German cuisine.

Chocolate Sauerkraut Cake

This cake is surprisingly delightful, as sauerkraut adds moistness without overpowering the rich chocolate. This cake will surely become a conversation starter at any gathering.

Slow Cooker Pork And Sauerkraut

This dish combines tender pork with tangy sauerkraut, benefiting from the lactic acid bacteria from the fermentation process. With bay leaves and paprika, it's perfect for chilly evenings.

Slow Cooker Reuben Sandwiches

Do you crave a fusion of tangy and creamy? This sandwich boasts homemade quick sauerkraut that's rich in probiotics, layered with corned beef and Swiss cheese. It's the ultimate comfort food.

Fuczki Polish Sauerkraut Pancakes

For those who love sour cabbage flavors, these pancakes are a treat. Packed with vitamins C and calcium, they're a delightful pairing with the optional garlic-infused sour cream.

German Sauerkraut Soup (Sauerkrautsupe)

This recipe offers a comforting blend of bacon, apple, and sauerkraut. The caraway seeds enhance the soup, which also offers the nutritional benefits of potassium and vitamins C.

Apple-Bacon Sauerkraut

Infused with the sweet notes of apple and the savory touch of bacon, this sauerkraut dish offers a symphony of flavors. It's a refreshing take on a traditional side, great for elevating any meal.

Homemade Sauerkraut: Purple Cabbage and Carrot

A vibrant twist on traditional sauerkraut, this recipe leverages the natural sodium in sea salt to promote fermentation. Enjoy the added crunch of carrots and the unique shade of purple cabbage.

German Sauerkraut Balls

Crispy on the outside and soft within, these balls offer a harmonious blend of potatoes and sauerkraut. With the right amount of seasoning, they become irresistible, bite-sized delights.

German Meatballs With Sauerkraut

These juicy meatballs, complemented by sauerkraut's tanginess, are a delightful fusion. Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, they're sure to impress.

Sauerkraut and Dumplings with Kielbasa

Dive into a dish that celebrates European flavors, combining kielbasa, fluffy dumplings, and sauerkraut. It's a hearty meal that beckons the family to the table.

Turmeric Sauerkraut

Experience the merging of tangy sauerkraut and aromatic turmeric in this vibrant recipe. It's not only delicious but packed with health benefits, making it a go-to for wellness enthusiasts.

Baked Pork Chops and Sauerkraut

Baked to perfection, these pork chops paired with sauerkraut ensure a satisfying bite every time. It's ideal for a family dinner or special occasions like holiday feasts.

Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Skillet

This skillet dish showcases the dynamic duo of kielbasa and sauerkraut. We recommend trying this recipe on those busy nights when you need a quick yet flavorful dinner.

Easy Gluten-Free Baked Sauerkraut Balls

These gluten-free balls offer the tang of sauerkraut in a crispy, baked exterior. It’s a hit at parties or as a unique snack option.

Pork Roast With Sauerkraut & Dumplings

Juicy pork roast meets tangy sauerkraut and fluffy dumplings in this traditional dish. The drop dumpling recipe ensures soft, cloud-like bites that enhance the meal's comfort factor.

Sauerkraut and Spare Ribs

Dive into this timeless combination of tender spare ribs and tangy sauerkraut. These sauerkraut ribs are excellent for those days when you're seeking comfort food with a depth of flavor.

Reuben Meatballs

Experience the essence of a Reuben sandwich transformed into savory meatballs. They're a hit at gatherings, especially when paired with rye bread.

Vegan Cabbage Rolls with Sauerkraut

Vibrant cabbage rolls filled with a medley of veggies and rice bring out the best in vegan cuisine. Enhanced with dill seeds and bay leaves, they're a testament to plant-based goodness.

Potato & Sauerkraut Latkes

This dish combines crispy potatoes and tangy sauerkraut for a delightful fusion. Perfect for brunch or as a side, they pair wonderfully with sour cream or applesauce.

Sauerkraut Chocolate Cake With Sour Cream Chocolate Frosting

This cake boasts the unexpected pairing of chocolate and sauerkraut, offering moistness and depth. The sour cream frosting completes this delightful dessert.

Reuben Casserole

All the flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich come alive in this comforting casserole. It's a perfect dish for cold evenings or family dinners.

Sauerkraut Pizza

Who knew sauerkraut could elevate a pizza? Paired with sausage or kielbasa and a burst of spices, it's a fantastic twist on the traditional pie.

Hot German Potatoes and Sauerkraut with Bacon Dressing

Tender potatoes and tangy sauerkraut are drizzled with a rich bacon dressing in this dish. It's a comforting side that pairs perfectly with grilled meats.

Hot Dogs and Sauerkraut

A nostalgic blend of classic hot dogs and tangy sauerkraut elevates this dish. Serve it at summer BBQs or chilly nights, and watch it become a fast favorite.

Sauerkraut Strudel With Smoked Bacon

This recipe takes the crispy delight of strudel and infuses it with smoky bacon and sauerkraut. Ideal for brunches, it's a savory treat that surprises and satisfies.

Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Sauerkraut

Tender corned beef and tangy sauerkraut meld beautifully in this slow-cooked dish. It’s great for hearty dinners or when craving comforting flavors on colder evenings.

Chicken & Red Cabbage Sauerkraut Tacos

These tacos offer a vibrant blend of juicy chicken and tangy red cabbage sauerkraut. The spicy kick from chipotle sauce elevates the flavor experience.

Hot Reuben Dip

This creamy dip is a deconstructed Reuben sandwich in a bowl. It's rich, cheesy, and best served warm with rye chips or crackers.

Polish Sauerkraut Bread

Experience a unique bread infused with the flavors of sauerkraut. It's a Polish delicacy that pairs wonderfully with soups or charcuterie.

Slovak Christmas Eve Mushroom Soup

This traditional Slovak soup marries the earthiness of mushrooms with the tang of sauerkraut juice. It's a comforting dish meant for festive occasions.

Szegediner Gulasch (German Sauerkraut Beef Goulash)

This rich and hearty goulash brings together tender beef and sauerkraut in a symphony of flavors. Dive into this German classic on chilly evenings for ultimate comfort.

Sauerkraut Frittata

A delightful fusion of sauerkraut, potato, and onion makes this frittata stand out. It's a delightful breakfast option or a light dinner paired with a fresh salad.

Corned Beef & Sauerkraut Quiche

This quiche boasts a sumptuous blend of corned beef and sauerkraut nestled in a flaky crust. Ideal for brunches, it’s a delightful twist on traditional quiche recipes.

Bratwurst & Sauerkraut

This dish features bratwurst with sauerkraut and apple. The caraway seeds and paprika impart warmth, making this dish a cozy option for winter evenings.

Cheesy Sauerkraut Brat Sliders

These sliders are a delightful fusion of savory brats, melted Provolone, and tangy sauerkraut, topped with a rich butter-beer sauce. They're the perfect bite for game nights or casual gatherings.

Reuben-Style Cheeseburgers

Merging the flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich and a juicy burger, this cheeseburger boasts layers of corned beef, swiss cheese, and sauerkraut. The mayo-ketchup-relish dressing ties it all together deliciously.

Reuben Hand Pies

These hand pies are a playful take on the traditional Reuben, wrapped in puff pastry with corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut. Paired with Thousand Island Dressing, they're a delightful snack or appetizer.

Pittsburgh Pierogy Nachos

This inventive dish transforms pierogies into nachos, topped with savory kielbasa, sauerkraut, and a creamy beer cheese sauce. It's a fusion of flavors that creates a true comfort food experience.

📋 Recipe

Frequently Asked Questions