Prep
1 hr
Cook
20 min
Total
2 hr 20 min
Servings
8

Method

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.

  2. Cook and stir sausage and onion in the hot skillet until sausage is crumbly and browned, about 10 minutes.

  3. Drain grease and allow to cool slightly.

  4. Transfer sausage mixture into a large bowl.

  5. Stir in drained sauerkraut, 2 tablespoons bread crumbs, mustard, garlic salt, and pepper.

  6. Combine cream cheese and parsley in a small bowl; mix into sauerkraut mixture.

  7. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour.

  8. Place flour into a shallow bowl.

  9. Whisk together egg and milk in another bowl.

  10. Place 3/4 cup bread crumbs in a third bowl.

  11. Heat oil in a deep fryer to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).

  12. Shape sauerkraut mixture into 3/4-inch balls.

  13. Coat balls in flour, then dip in egg mixture and roll in bread crumbs to thoroughly coat.

  14. Working in batches, fry balls in hot oil until golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes.

  15. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate and serve hot.

  16. After breading, the balls can be quick-frozen on a cookie sheet, then stored in freezer bags. They do not need to thaw before frying.

  17. Nutrition data for this recipe includes the full amount of breading ingredients. The actual amount of breading consumed will

About this recipe

Are you a fan of tangy and savory flavors? Do you love the crunch of a perfectly fried appetizer? Then you're in for a treat with these scrumptious sauerkraut balls! Imagine biting into a crispy, golden-brown exterior only to be met with a burst of tangy sauerkraut and creamy cheese filling. It's a flavor explosion in every bite!

The Perfect Party Appetizer

Looking for the perfect party appetizer that will impress your guests? Look no further! Sauerkraut balls are not only incredibly delicious but also a unique and unexpected addition to any gathering. These bite-sized treats are sure to be a hit and will have your guests coming back for more.

A Flavorful Combination

What makes sauerkraut balls so irresistible is the combination of flavors and textures. The tanginess of the sauerkraut pairs perfectly with the creamy and rich cheese filling. The crispy exterior adds the perfect crunch, making these balls a delightful sensory experience.

A Crunchy Exterior

Imagine biting into a perfectly fried sauerkraut ball. The exterior is golden and crispy, giving way to a burst of flavor as you take your first bite. It's like a symphony of textures in your mouth, with the crunch of the coating contrasting with the creamy filling inside.

The Art of Frying

Frying sauerkraut balls to perfection requires skill and precision. The key is to maintain the right temperature so that the balls cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden crust. It's like a delicate dance between heat and timing, resulting in a mouthwatering appetizer that will leave everyone wanting more.

Frequently asked questions

Can I make sauerkraut balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Sauerkraut balls can be prepared in advance and refrigerated until you're ready to fry them. Just make sure to keep them well-covered to prevent them from drying out.

Can I freeze sauerkraut balls?

Absolutely! Sauerkraut balls freeze well, making them a convenient option for busy days or unexpected guests. Simply place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, just thaw and fry!

Can I use different types of cheese for the filling?

Absolutely! While the classic recipe calls for cream cheese, you can experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste. Cheddar, Swiss, or even blue cheese can add a unique twist to your sauerkraut balls.

Are sauerkraut balls gluten-free?

The traditional recipe for sauerkraut balls uses breadcrumbs in the coating, which contain gluten. However, you can easily make them gluten-free by substituting gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Can I bake sauerkraut balls instead of frying them?

While frying sauerkraut balls gives them that irresistible crispy exterior, you can also bake them for a healthier alternative. Simply place them on a baking sheet and bake at a high temperature until golden and heated through.

What can I serve with sauerkraut balls?

Sauerkraut balls are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a variety of dipping sauces. Spicy mustard, ranch dressing, or even a tangy barbecue sauce are great options to enhance the flavors.

Can I make sauerkraut balls vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can easily make sauerkraut balls vegetarian by omitting any meat from the filling. The sauerkraut and cheese combination is already packed with flavor, making them a delicious meatless option.

Can I make sauerkraut balls spicy?

If you're a fan of spicy food, you can certainly add a kick to your sauerkraut balls. Consider adding some hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the filling for an extra burst of heat.

In conclusion, sauerkraut balls are a must-try appetizer for any sauerkraut lover. The combination of tangy sauerkraut, creamy cheese, and crispy coating is simply irresistible. Whether you're hosting a party or looking for a unique snack, these balls are sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, heat up that frying pan, and get ready to indulge in the delectable goodness of sauerkraut balls!

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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