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#### **Ingredients:**
– 1 pound of pork shoulder or kielbasa sausage, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups of drained sauerkraut
– 1 large onion, diced
– 1 cup of carrots, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 3 cups of beef or chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1-2 bay leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
#### **Instructions:**
**Step 1: Prepare the Meat**
Begin by preparing the meat for the casserole. If you are using pork, such as pork shoulder or pork chops, cut it into small pieces. If you’re using sausage, slice it into bite-sized chunks. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the pork or sausage until it’s browned on all sides. Once the meat is browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
**Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables**
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sliced carrots. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they are softened and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning the garlic. The vegetables should be tender and slightly caramelized.
**Step 3: Layer the Casserole**
In a large casserole dish, begin layering the ingredients. Start by placing half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the dish. Follow this with half of the cooked meat and half of the sautéed vegetables. Next, add half of the drained sauerkraut, spreading it evenly over the meat and vegetables. Repeat this layering process with the remaining potatoes, meat, vegetables, and sauerkraut.
**Step 4: Add Seasonings and Broth**
In a small bowl, mix together the beef or chicken broth, Dijon mustard, caraway seeds, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture evenly over the casserole, ensuring that all the ingredients are slightly covered with liquid.
**Step 5: Bake the Casserole**
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-30 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
**Step 6: Add Cheese (Optional)**
If you are using cheese, sprinkle the shredded cheddar over the top of the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking. The cheese will melt and form a delicious, golden crust.
**Step 7: Serve and Enjoy**
Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and make it easier to cut and serve. Scoop a generous portion onto plates, and enjoy the comforting combination of sauerkraut, meat, and potatoes.
### **Variations on Sauerkraut Casserole**
While the basic recipe is a crowd-pleaser, there are numerous variations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some ideas to modify the dish:
– **Vegetarian Version:** For a vegetarian take on sauerkraut casserole, omit the meat and add more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. You can also add plant-based sausage or tempeh for added protein.
– **Gluten-Free Version:** If you need a gluten-free version, ensure that all the ingredients you use, including broth and mustard, are gluten-free. You can also serve the casserole with gluten-free bread or rolls on the side.
– **Spicy Version:** If you enjoy a little heat, add some red pepper flakes, hot sausage, or sliced jalapeños to the casserole for a spicy kick.
### **Conclusion**
Sauerkraut Casserole is a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings together the tanginess of sauerkraut, the richness of meat, and the heartiness of potatoes and vegetables. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy dinner at home or serving it to guests at a holiday gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit. With its simple ingredients and comforting flavors, Sauerkraut Casserole is a perfect example of how humble ingredients can come together to create something truly special.
The beauty of Sauerkraut Casserole is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes, dietary needs, or available ingredients, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. So, the next time you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful meal, give this classic dish a try – you won’t be disappointed!
