Baked Sauerkraut Casserole with Beef, Pineapple & Mashed Potatoes
A comforting casserole that combines savory beef, tangy sauerkraut, sweet pineapple, and creamy mashed potatoes, perfect for family gatherings or meal prep.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 1 pound ground beef Use lean ground beef for less grease.
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) sauerkraut, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, drained You can add a splash of pineapple juice for extra flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite blend) Reserve half for topping.
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust according to preference.
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 4-5 large potatoes, peeled and diced Russet or Yukon Gold work well.
- 1/2 cup milk Any milk can be used—almond milk is a good alternative.
- 4 tablespoons butter Butter makes everything better!
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust according to preference.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion, seasoning with salt and pepper for about 10 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the browned beef mixture, sauerkraut, crushed pineapple, and half of the shredded cheese. Stir until well mixed.
- Spread the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and top with the remaining cheese.
Mashed Potatoes
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add diced potatoes. Cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.
- Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper to the potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy.
- Spoon the mashed potatoes over the casserole layer, spreading into an even layer.
Baking
- Bake in the oven for about 30 minutes until warmed through and the top is slightly golden.
Serving
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
This casserole freezes beautifully! Assemble without baking, cover tightly, and store for up to 3 months. For picky eaters, assure them that the sauerkraut's flavor mellows during baking. You can also sneak in veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition.