Cheesy Hot Dog and Potato Bake with Sauerkraut
Indulge in this hearty Cheesy Hot Dog and Potato Bake with Sauerkraut – a one-dish wonder that's perfect for family gatherings and weeknight dinners. This dish combines creamy seasoned mashed potatoes with savory hot dogs and tangy sauerkraut, all baked to perfection with a bubbly, golden cheese topping. It's a nostalgic comfort food that brings the joy of classic flavors together in a delightful casserole that serves 8. Whether you're using leftover mashed potatoes or making them fresh, this bake is sure to please a crowd and can easily be customized with your favorite cheeses or additional vegetables.
N/A
Servings
275
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
left-over seasoned mashed potatoes
4 cups (prepared and seasoned to taste)
hot dogs
1 (16 ounce) package (cut into 4 pieces)
sauerkraut
1 (16 ounce) can (drained)
shredded cheese (optional)
2 cups (for topping (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice))
black pepper
to taste (freshly ground)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Grease a 2.5-quart casserole dish with cooking spray or butter.
3
Spread half of the seasoned mashed potatoes evenly across the bottom of the greased casserole dish.
4
Layer half of the cut hot dogs over the mashed potatoes, followed by half of the drained sauerkraut.
5
If using, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over this first layer.
6
Repeat the layers with the remaining mashed potatoes, hot dogs, and sauerkraut.
7
Top the final layer with the remaining cheese (if using) and season with black pepper.
8
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
9
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
10
Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Information
15g
Fat
25g
Carbs
10g
Protein
1.5g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cheesy Hot Dog and Potato Bake with Sauerkraut?
This dish is a hearty, one-dish casserole that combines creamy mashed potatoes, savory hot dogs, and tangy sauerkraut topped with melted cheese.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed to serve 8 people, making it perfect for family gatherings.
What are the main ingredients required?
The main ingredients are 4 cups of seasoned mashed potatoes, a 16-ounce package of hot dogs, a 16-ounce can of sauerkraut, shredded cheese, and black pepper.
Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of leftovers?
Yes, while the recipe is great for using up leftovers, you can certainly make fresh mashed potatoes to use in this bake.
How should I prepare the hot dogs for the casserole?
The hot dogs should be cut into four pieces each before layering them into the casserole dish.
Do I need to drain the sauerkraut?
Yes, you must drain the 16-ounce can of sauerkraut to prevent the casserole from becoming too watery during baking.
What type of cheese is recommended?
Cheddar or mozzarella are excellent choices, though you can use any variety of shredded cheese that you prefer.
Is the shredded cheese mandatory?
The cheese is listed as an optional ingredient, but it is highly recommended for a bubbly, golden topping.
What is the recommended baking temperature?
The oven should be preheated and set to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
How long does the bake take to cook?
The total baking time is 45 minutes: 30 minutes covered with foil and an additional 15 minutes uncovered.
Why is the casserole covered with foil for part of the baking time?
Covering the dish with foil helps to heat the internal ingredients thoroughly without burning the cheese topping.
What size casserole dish should I use?
A 2.5-quart casserole dish is the ideal size for the quantities listed in this recipe.
Can I add extra vegetables to this dish?
Yes, this bake is easily customizable. You can add onions, bell peppers, or even corn to the layers.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe can be gluten-free if you ensure that your hot dogs and mashed potato ingredients are certified gluten-free.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 275 calories.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the layers in the casserole dish ahead of time, refrigerate it, and bake it when you are ready.
How should I store leftover bake?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze the Cheesy Hot Dog and Potato Bake?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or place the entire dish in the oven at 350 degrees until heated through.
What side dishes pair well with this casserole?
A simple green salad, roasted carrots, or steamed green beans pair beautifully with this rich dish.
Can I use turkey or veggie hot dogs?
Yes, turkey or vegetarian hot dog alternatives work perfectly in this recipe as a leaner option.
What seasonings are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for freshly ground black pepper to taste, while the flavor also comes from the seasoned mashed potatoes.
How do I ensure the potatoes don't get dry?
Using creamy, well-seasoned mashed potatoes and covering the dish with foil during the initial baking phase helps maintain moisture.
Can I use different varieties of sauerkraut?
Yes, Bavarian sauerkraut or sauerkraut with caraway seeds can be used to add different flavor profiles.
Is this a kid-friendly meal?
Yes, the familiar flavors of hot dogs, potatoes, and cheese make it a popular choice for children.
How much protein is in each serving?
There are 10 grams of protein per serving.
Can I double the recipe for a larger group?
Absolutely. You can double the ingredients and bake it in a larger pan or two separate 2.5-quart dishes.
What is the texture of the finished dish?
The dish features soft, creamy potato layers, tender hot dogs, and a slightly crunchy, cheesy crust.
How long should I let it cool before serving?
Allowing the casserole to cool for about 5 to 10 minutes helps the layers set for easier serving.
Why is this considered a great 'leftover' recipe?
It is an efficient and delicious way to repurpose a large quantity of leftover mashed potatoes into a completely new meal.