Scrumptious Sauerkraut Balls are tasty little bites that are sure to make your taste buds dance! They’re filled with a delightful mix of sauerkraut, cheese, and spices, all rolled into a crispy coating.
These little snacks are fantastic for parties or cozy nights in. I love serving them with a side of mustard for dipping—so much flavor packed into one bite! Plus, they’re super easy to make, making them a go-to in my kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sauerkraut: This is the star ingredient, giving your balls that tangy flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, try using coleslaw mix or canned cabbage instead, though it won’t have the same zip!
Sausage: I love using breakfast sausage for its rich flavor, but you can swap it for turkey sausage or a plant-based option for a lighter or vegetarian version.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor. For a twist, try pepper jack for some heat or mozzarella for a milder taste. Just keep in mind that cheese should melt well to hold everything together.
Ritz Crackers: These bring a nice crunch! If you have dietary restrictions, use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs instead. I’ve also used crushed tortilla chips; they add an awesome flavor!
How Do I Make the Perfect Sauerkraut Balls Without Mess?
Forming and frying sauerkraut balls can get a bit messy, but here are some helpful tips:
- Keep your hands wet while rolling the mixture. It prevents sticking and helps the balls form easily.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough (350°F) before adding the balls. If it’s not, they might become soggy instead of crispy.
- Don’t overcrowd the frying pot! Fry in small batches to ensure even cooking.
- Let the fried balls drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil, helping them stay crispy!
These handy tips should keep your cleanup easy and help you achieve delicious results every time!
How to Make Scrumptious Sauerkraut Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and finely chopped
- 2 cups cooked sausage, crumbled (or cooked ground pork)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (plus extra for coating)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Oil for deep frying (vegetable or canola oil)
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and an additional 10-15 minutes for frying. In total, you should be ready to serve these delicious bites in about 30 minutes—perfect for a quick snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained and finely chopped sauerkraut with the crumbled cooked sausage, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and crushed Ritz crackers. Mix everything together well so all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Mix in the Binders:
Add the eggs, all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to the sauerkraut mixture. Stir everything thoroughly until the mixture becomes sticky and can hold together when shaped into balls.
3. Shape the Balls:
Using your hands, scoop about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it tightly into small balls. Place the assembled balls on a plate or tray. You should have enough mixture to make about 20-24 balls!
4. Coat the Balls:
On a shallow plate, spread out some additional crushed Ritz crackers. Roll each formed ball in the crushed crackers to coat them evenly, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well.
5. Fry the Balls:
In a deep fryer or large pot, heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop a few sauerkraut balls into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry them for about 3 to 4 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to carefully remove the balls from the oil and let them drain on paper towels.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your sauerkraut balls warm, optionally sprinkling some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra touch. These little bites are perfect for dipping in mustard or any sauce you love!
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful, and scrumptious sauerkraut balls!
Can I Use Pre-Packaged Sauerkraut for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Pre-packaged sauerkraut is a time-saver. Just make sure to drain and rinse it to remove some of the excess salt and brine for a better flavor balance.
How Do I Store Leftover Sauerkraut Balls?
Once cooled, store leftover sauerkraut balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness!
Can I Freeze Sauerkraut Balls?
Yes, you can freeze them! After frying, let the balls cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven until heated through.
What Can I Serve with Sauerkraut Balls?
Sauerkraut balls pair wonderfully with a variety of dips! Try serving them with mustard, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli for an extra kick. They also go great alongside a fresh salad or slaw to balance their richness!