Looking for a hearty and comforting dish that celebrates the flavors of Bavarian cuisine? Look no further than our delectable Bavarian Kraut Casserole! This dish combines the tangy goodness of sauerkraut with savory sausages and creamy mashed potatoes, creating a delightful blend of textures and flavors that will warm your soul. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
**Bavarian Kraut Casserole**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound of bratwurst sausages
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of caraway seeds
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– 1 can (14 oz) of sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 4 cups of mashed potatoes
– 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the bratwurst sausages and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the sausages from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the caraway seeds and paprika, cooking for another minute to toast the spices.
5. Add the drained and rinsed sauerkraut to the skillet, along with the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. While the sauerkraut mixture is simmering, slice the cooked sausages into bite-sized pieces.
7. Spread half of the mashed potatoes in an even layer on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
8. Layer half of the sauerkraut mixture on top of the mashed potatoes, followed by half of the sliced sausages.
9. Repeat the layers with the remaining mashed potatoes, sauerkraut mixture, and sausages.
10. Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese over the top of the casserole.
11. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
12. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
13. Garnish the casserole with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
This Bavarian Kraut Casserole is a wonderful dish that brings together the best of German flavors in a comforting and satisfying meal. The combination of sauerkraut, bratwurst sausages, and creamy mashed potatoes creates a harmonious blend that is sure to please your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner at home or simply craving a taste of Bavaria, this casserole is a must-try recipe that will surely become a family favorite. Enjoy the warmth and richness of this dish with your loved ones – guten Appetit!
