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Baked Sauerkraut Balls

December 30, 2020 By Patricia 65 Comments

Baked Sauerkraut Balls are a blast from the past for me. Are you one to reminisce about food you grew up enjoying? This recipe sure helps me satisfy my cravings! Baked Sauerkraut Balls are a delicious snack to serve as a fun appetizer or snack. I think you’ll love them!

Baked Sauerkraut Balls are retro fabulous! These appetizers are so delcious, and perfect for a party!

Have you ever had a sauerkraut ball? I love, love, love them! When I talk about them, though, only people who grew up where I did — Akron, Ohio — seem to know about them.

I first posted this recipe in 2017.

These little nuggets are made of sauerkraut (Hello, Captain Obvious!), onion, bits of meat, and seasonings. They get rolled up, coated in breadcrumbs, and then they’re typically deep fried.

Mmm! They’re perfect for parties — when we get to those again — and remind me of a mini Reuben sandwich. I served my baked sauerkraut balls with a mustardy sauce for dipping. So good.

Baked Sauerkraut Balls are such a fun treat! These appetizers are so tasty, and party perfect!

Baked Sauerkraut Balls

Word on the street has it that sauerkraut balls were first created in Akron. When I brought them up on my Facebook feed, so many hometown friends chimed in about them. “Ahh! I’d give anything for some sauerkraut balls right now,” I read. Some friends declared, “My Grandma made the best sauerkraut balls!” Others insisted, “The sauerkraut balls at (insert-restaurant-name-here) are the bomb!”

Pretty much everyone from my hometown and its surrounding areas has a sauerkraut balls memory, and as I learned, sauerkraut balls have been around for a long while.

Baked Sauerkraut Balls are a delight! Perfect for a party this baked (not fried) appetizer is so good!

A few years ago, I was hanging out with some old friends while I was home visiting my family in Ohio. Enjoying cocktails and laughs one night at our friends’ house, I noticed a cool, vintage cookbook from Stouffer’s (yes, the frozen foods company, which got its start in Ohio) on the table.

The gem of a cookbook is called, “Here’s How: a selection of our famous drink recipes and hints for home entertaining.” Flipping through the pages, I came across a recipe for French Fried Sauerkraut Balls.

Baked Sauerkraut Balls make a great appetizer or snack. You'll love how good they are!

Then, the craving hit, and it hit hard, my friends. Next came the debate over where we could get our hands on some, late night. Somehow, reason prevailed. There was no late-night binge, but I did snap a pic of the recipe to take home with me.

Looking for more fun appetizers? Try one of these recipes:
Fried Pickles with Homemade Buttermilk Ranch Dressing
How to Make a Fabulous Charcuterie Board
Creamy Green Goddess Dip

My baked sauerkraut balls are a bit different from the classic in a few ways: first, they’re baked and not fried. This baked option is super delicious. I tried frying them but could not perfect the process! I tried, and I’ll try it again sometime, just to get the sauerkraut-ball experience I remember from my past.

Baked Sauerkraut Balls are a fabulous snack! The flavors are fab and they bring a retro vibe to any party!

If you fry them, add enough oil to a large pan to cover the balls at least halfway (you’ll flip them to brown them all over). The original recipe says to fry them for 1-1/2 minutes.

Also, I made these treats with sausage only instead of what the original recipe called for: sausage, ham, and corned beef. I added a few more seasonings, and these retro treats turned out great!

Do you have a favorite hometown food that’s hard to find elsewhere? Can you recreate it to quell your cravings? I’m so glad I came across this recipe, and can’t wait to make baked sauerkraut balls again!

These would be perfect to serve for New Year’s Eve this year, tucked away with loved ones! Have a safe and happy season!

Baked Sauerkraut Balls are a fun treat! You'll love the flavors!

Nutrition

Calories

881 cal

Fat

28 g

Carbs

125 g

Protein

28 g
Click Here For Full Nutrition, Exchanges, and My Plate Info
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Patricia Conte/Grab a Plate

Yields 75 sauerkraut balls

Baked Sauerkraut Balls

These regional, retro treats are fun to serve for get togethers and parties! I baked these rather than fry them for an update on a classic.

I adapted this recipe from an original Stouffer's recipe.

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5 based on 13 review(s)

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Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3/4 pound spicy Italian sausage
  • 1/3 cup white onion, minced
  • 1 cup flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried minced garlic
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 cup milk
  • 16 ounces sauerkraut, drained with excess liquid squeezed out, finely chopped
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1/2 cup milk, plus 3 tablespoons
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • Nonstick cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Sift together the flour, dry mustard, garlic, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Set aside.
  2. Add the olive oil to a large skillet over medium heat. When hot, add the sausage and cook, breaking apart with the back of a spoon, until browned.
  3. Add the flour mixture to the skillet, stirring to combine. Add the 1/2 cup milk to the skillet, stirring. Cook for a few minutes, or until the mixture has thickened.
  4. Remove from the heat and add the sauerkraut and onion. Mix well to combine.
  5. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature. Place in a container and freeze for at least four hours.
  6. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside. Remove the mixture from the freezer and let it thaw just slightly.
  7. Combine the 3 tablespoons milk and the beaten egg in a shallow bowl. Mix to combine. Add the breadcrumbs to a shallow bowl.
  8. Scoop the mixture from the container and roll into walnut-sized balls. Roll each ball into the egg mixture, then the breadcrumbs. Pat lightly so the breadcrumbs stick.
  9. Place on the baking sheets so they are not touching. Lightly spray the balls with the nonstick cooking spray.
  10. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden. If you’d like, place under the broiler for just a minute or so to add a bit more color, watching them carefully.
  11. Serve warm or at room temperature with your favorite mustard-based sauce.
7.8.1.2
153
https://www.azgrabaplate.com/baked-sauerkraut-balls/

Filed Under: Appetizers, Home, Recipes, Snacks Tagged With: appetizers, party food, regional cuisine, retro appetizers, sauerkraut, sauerkraut balls, Snacks, starters, treats

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Comments

  1. Sarah Kranz says

    April 26, 2017 at 2:21 pm

    These look like a great party snack or appetizer! -Sarah www.myfrostedlife.com
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      April 26, 2017 at 10:20 pm

      Thanks, Sarah! They for sure are perfect for parties!
      Reply
  2. Lane & Holly @ With Two Spoons says

    April 26, 2017 at 5:00 pm

    These are so fun! I've never heard of sauerkraut balls, but you've definitely piqued my curiosity!
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      April 26, 2017 at 10:19 pm

      Thanks! I hope you give them a try - they're really good, and perfect for a gathering!
      Reply
  3. Jerneja says

    April 26, 2017 at 5:25 pm

    I used to hate sauerkraut so much when I was a kid that I would rather eat a slice of bread than sauerkraut for lunch. Good thing that's behind me now, because these balls look delicious! I bet if my parents gave me these for lunch 15 years ago I would love them. :)
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      April 26, 2017 at 10:19 pm

      Hi, Jerneja! Isn't it great how our tastes change over time! I never used to like sweet potatoes, and now I ADORE them!
      Reply
  4. candy says

    April 26, 2017 at 5:26 pm

    Now these sound really good, never had anything like this before.
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      April 26, 2017 at 10:18 pm

      They really are, Candy! They're for sure a hometown favorite!
      Reply
  5. Elizabeth Conte-Vitullo says

    April 26, 2017 at 6:42 pm

    Oh my goodness, a healthier way to enjoy souerkraut balls!
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      April 26, 2017 at 10:18 pm

      Mmmm! And they taste so, so good!
      Reply
  6. Jolina says

    April 27, 2017 at 1:24 am

    I live away from home and when I'm homesick, food is what I always turn to! So I totally get your cravings. This is the first time I'm hearing of sauerkraut balls, so interesting. If it's a hometown favourite, then it's a definite must-try!
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      April 28, 2017 at 10:48 pm

      Thanks very much, Jolina! Food from home is always so comforting! I hope you get a chance to try these, and enjoy them!
      Reply
  7. Kate says

    April 27, 2017 at 1:18 pm

    Oh man, I totally reminisce about food from my past! All the time. I have never heard of sauerkraut balls. I never liked sauerkraut as a kid, but my tastebuds had drastically changes-especially regarding fermented foods.
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      April 28, 2017 at 10:47 pm

      I do it often I hope you get to try them! My tastes have changed a lot over time, too!
      Reply
  8. Quinn says

    April 27, 2017 at 10:00 pm

    I haven't had these for so long. Now I need to make them. Thanks for sharing.
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      April 28, 2017 at 10:46 pm

      I hope you get a chance to make them soon!
      Reply
  9. Jennifer Laxmi says

    April 28, 2017 at 1:09 am

    This look absolutely yummy, not to mention I love sauerkraut. Thanks for sharing! xo Jen | http://laxmilifestyle.com
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      April 28, 2017 at 10:45 pm

      Thanks so much, Jennifer!
      Reply
  10. Sharon Wu says

    April 28, 2017 at 6:21 am

    these look like the perfect finger food/appetizers for any special occasion! thanks for sharing xo, sharon http://www.stylelullaby.com/fashion/elevated-style-with-zappos-clarks/ @stylelullaby
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      April 28, 2017 at 10:45 pm

      Thanks so much, Sharon! Hope you get a chance to try them!
      Reply
  11. Kimberly @ Berly's Kitchen says

    April 30, 2017 at 9:01 pm

    Ok, so I've never heard of these, but they look delicious. I asked my husband if he'd heard of them (he loves sauerkraut), and he said no. Looks like we'll be giving these a try sometime. It's amazing how old cookbooks have some of the best recipes!
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      May 4, 2017 at 3:28 am

      Hi Kimberly! I hope you try them, and enjoy! Yes, it's funny how I never knew they were a regional favorite until I moved!
      Reply
  12. Billy says

    May 8, 2017 at 6:25 pm

    I have yet to try sauerkraut balls, but if they really do taste like a tiny reuben sandwich that is all I need to hear.. Your pictures are stunning and did nothing short of making my mouth water! I love sauerkraut in my diet, but these would be absolutely great for a party setting. Thank you for your recipe! I might have to come back with my results and post them as a reply to my comment when I make these little delights!
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      May 8, 2017 at 6:36 pm

      Hi Billy! I hope you do try these! And you're right -- they're perfect for a party! I hope you love them like I do! Thanks!
      Reply
  13. Jon Killough says

    May 20, 2017 at 1:27 am

    Forgot to tell you, I made these a few weeks ago. Amazing! Had to change a few things for what I had on hand (used Hog Maw Sausage from a local butcher - hog maws, potatoes, cabbage - and sour dough rye crumbs from a homemade loaf) and no, absolutely no! - dipping sauce. A sin in our house. Soooooo good! Thank you so much for bringing back a childhood favorite.
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      May 20, 2017 at 3:40 pm

      Oh, awesome! Glad to hear they turned out! Sour dough rye? You MUST share that recipe with me, pretty please! Thanks for stopping by to let me know!
      Reply
  14. Tim says

    October 6, 2018 at 8:50 pm

    I hope to make these tomorrow, but I have a question. The recipe says one cup of milk. Step 3 says to add the milk to the skillet with the flour & oil. Then step 7 says to mix the milk & egg for the "wash". So is it supposed to be half the milk for step 3 and the other half for step 7? Thanks....
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      January 12, 2019 at 10:21 am

      Hi Tim - I'm sorry I'm just seeing this comment now! I adjusted the recipe to include an additional 3 tablespoons milk to add to the egg wash. Hope this worked for you.
      Reply
    • Lori Gibson says

      December 31, 2021 at 4:10 am

      Hello, my question is about the quantity of milk. I added half the 1 cup of milk but what do i do with the rest? I see i use 3T with the egg ...is the rest just in case your mixture is too dry to form balls? thank you, making these for new years eve and excited to try them as I'm from Canton, Oh and now reside in SC. Miss my Ohio food!!
      Reply
  15. Michelle Yates says

    April 18, 2019 at 4:14 pm

    So excited to make!! Every Christmas growing up my parents would throw an adult holiday party. Horsdevours included fresh shrimp, spinach dip in fresh rye bread bowl and sauerkraut balls. In return for being the only kid there and acting as a little waitress I got to eat as much as I wanted. The food was all catered by an amazing restaurant in Cleveland, Ohio. The saurkraut balls were to die for. I live in Virginia now and no one has ever heard of them. My Mom is coming to visit and we're going to try to make these. A lot of recipes call for cream cheese and I don't remember tasting that. Yours sounds like I remember. Can't wait to try. Will post how we did.
    ★★★★★
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      April 26, 2019 at 2:29 pm

      That's an awesome story, Michelle! I'm so glad you found these! I'm in the same boat after moving from Ohio -- so few people have had or heard of these. They always give me a weird look, too, like "that sounds gross!" But I have to set them straight and give them the recipe! I hope you and your mom enjoy these, and yes, keep me posted!
      Reply
  16. Jennifer Bailey says

    October 3, 2019 at 3:25 pm

    My sister and I have been looking for this recipe for almost 40 years. We would be so grateful if you would forward the original recipe. We are from Akron too. Thank you so much!
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      October 14, 2019 at 8:42 pm

      That's so cool, Jennifer! I'll have to do a little digging! Someone else asked and I think I've misplaced the little book - put somewhere for safekeeping. :)
      Reply
  17. Beth Malaga says

    September 24, 2020 at 10:33 pm

    Thank you so much for posting this, from a Cleveland gal! Yes, my dad used to make sauerkraut balls for parties and holidays-loved them!! I'm gonna give these a whirl for an Octoberfest party I'm going to, tmrw. I will check back in with a report!
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      October 7, 2020 at 8:42 pm

      Nice to hear from another Ohioan :) Funny how sauerkraut balls are soooo NE Ohio! Hope you like these! Thanks!
      Reply
  18. Pam says

    December 30, 2020 at 7:46 am

    These look so unique and delicious! And, yes, I am definitely one to reminisce about foods I ate when growing up. Wonderful memories...
    ★★★★★
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      January 1, 2021 at 5:56 pm

      Thanks so much, Pam!
      Reply
  19. Maria says

    December 30, 2020 at 8:40 am

    This will definitely up my sides game!
    ★★★★★
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      January 1, 2021 at 5:55 pm

      For sure ;) Thanks, Maria!
      Reply
  20. Toni says

    December 30, 2020 at 8:42 am

    This is so good!! My kids really loved these!!
    ★★★★★
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      January 1, 2021 at 5:55 pm

      Thanks, Toni! Glad they liked them!
      Reply
  21. Dannii says

    December 30, 2020 at 8:42 am

    What a unique way to use sauerkraut. I can't wait to give it a try at the weekend.
    ★★★★★
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      January 1, 2021 at 5:54 pm

      Yes, for sure! Thank you, Dannii!
      Reply
  22. Beth says

    December 30, 2020 at 8:45 am

    This looks so delicious and yummy! My husband is sure to love this recipe! Can't wait to give this a try!
    ★★★★★
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      January 1, 2021 at 5:54 pm

      Thank you, Beth! I hope you enjoy!
      Reply
  23. Amber says

    December 30, 2020 at 9:51 am

    I am not a sauerkraut lover but these are delicious! I do like that they are baked, not fried... makes me feel better about eating so many. haha
    ★★★★★
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      January 1, 2021 at 5:54 pm

      That's awesome, Amber! Glad you liked them!
      Reply
  24. Mimi says

    December 30, 2020 at 10:11 am

    These sound so yummy, I need to make them for tomorrow's dinner
    ★★★★★
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      January 1, 2021 at 5:54 pm

      Thanks, Mimi! We love them & hope you will, too!
      Reply
  25. Heather says

    December 30, 2020 at 1:21 pm

    I may have a small obsession with sauerkraut so I'm super excited to try these! Printing it out for next week!
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      January 1, 2021 at 5:53 pm

      Oh! That's funny! I hope you love these, Heather!
      Reply
  26. rachel says

    December 30, 2020 at 6:26 pm

    So until 2012 I had NEVER heard of Sauerkraut balls. But where I moved, they are very popular. But I STILL have not had them. I need to try making these SOON!
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      January 1, 2021 at 5:52 pm

      Ahhh! That's awesome! You'll have to try these. Enjoy!
      Reply
  27. Erin | Dinners,Dishes and Dessert says

    December 31, 2020 at 3:10 am

    These Baked Sauerkraut Balls are look outstanding!!
    ★★★★★
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      January 1, 2021 at 5:52 pm

      Thanks so much, Erin!
      Reply
  28. Erin says

    December 31, 2020 at 3:26 am

    What a fun New Year's recipe! Way better than plain old sauerkraut. I think my German husband would love these!
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      January 1, 2021 at 5:52 pm

      That's awesome, Erin! I hope you try them and enjoy!
      Reply
  29. Marisa says

    December 31, 2020 at 8:22 am

    These sound so good! I love sauerkraut but i dont know many recipes to enjoy it! I'm definitely going to try this out!
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      January 1, 2021 at 5:51 pm

      Thanks, Marisa! Yes - a good way to enjoy sauerkraut!
      Reply
  30. Cathy says

    December 31, 2020 at 9:37 am

    What a fun appetizer! These are SO flavorful!
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      January 1, 2021 at 5:51 pm

      Thanks, Cathy!
      Reply
  31. Catalina says

    January 1, 2021 at 8:49 am

    These baked sauerkraut balls look so crispy! My family will love them!
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      January 1, 2021 at 5:51 pm

      I hope you enjoy them!
      Reply
  32. Sara Welch says

    January 1, 2021 at 2:02 pm

    Served these for New Year's Eve and they did not disappoint! Easily, a new favorite recipe in our home; the whole family loved them!
    ★★★★★
    Reply
    • Patricia says

      January 1, 2021 at 5:51 pm

      That's really awesome! Thanks, Sara!
      Reply

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I'm Patricia

Welcome to Grab a Plate!

Growing up surrounded by my Italian family it was always, "grab a plate" whenever anyone came to visit. Food was always a celebration, even everyday meals, and I like it that way. I try to make each meal memorable with my recipes for mainly meatless, mostly healthy, and easy-to-make dishes (with sweet treats in between).

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