Oktoberfest brings a certain kind of energy to the table, big flavors, hearty portions, and no one leaving hungry. These German-inspired recipes capture that spirit with dishes made for real gatherings, not fancy photos. They’re built to feed plenty of people and still taste like something made from scratch, not from a box.

Five browned sausages simmer in onion gravy inside a black cast iron skillet on a light wooden surface. — Chef Jenn’s Beer Braised Brats with Caramelized Onions. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon

A rectangular white plate with cooked red cabbage and bacon pieces, placed on a light surface next to a floral-patterned cloth. — Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Combining bold flavors in a simple way makes meals unforgettable. Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon mixes tangy and rich elements, creating a colorful dish for any table. It’s perfect for pairing with hearty mains or serving on its own as a standout side. This recipe comes together easily, making it a great choice for quick, flavorful meals.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon

Oma’s Sauerkraut Soup with Kielbasa

A bowl of soup with sliced sausage, potatoes, carrots, cabbage, garnished with fresh herbs and a dollop of sour cream, with a spoon resting in the bowl. — Oma’s Sauerkraut Soup with Kielbasa. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Hearty soups bring warmth to any occasion, and this one fits perfectly. Oma’s Sauerkraut Soup with Kielbasa delivers tangy broth and smoky sausage in every spoonful. It’s a simple way to create a complete meal for family or friends. Pair it with crusty bread to fully enjoy its deep, rich flavors. A perfect option when you want something comforting but not too heavy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Oma’s Sauerkraut Soup with Kielbasa

31 of Chef Jenn's FAVE Casseroles!

Recipes for Comfort-Filled Family Meals

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Oven Baked Ribs

Recipes that create tender, flavorful mains always stand out. Oven Baked Ribs bring mouthwatering bites straight to your table with minimal effort. They’re slow-cooked to lock in flavor, making them ideal for any gathering. Whether paired with simple sides or enjoyed as a centerpiece, these ribs are always a hit. Great for creating a special meal without feeling overwhelmed in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs

Easy German Potato Salad

German Potato Salad with red onions, and bacon pieces, garnished with chopped parsley are served in a white dish with a spoon. — Easy German Potato Salad. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Potato dishes like this one are perfect for filling out a meal. Easy German Potato Salad brings tangy flavors that work well alongside heavier mains or as part of a simple lunch. It’s quick to prepare and offers a unique twist on traditional potato recipes. Whether feeding a group or keeping it small, this dish adds variety to your table. Count on it for dependable flavor no matter the occasion.
Get the Recipe: Easy German Potato Salad

Authentic Hungarian Goulash

Hungarian Goulash in two white bowls. — Authentic Hungarian Goulash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Slow-cooked meals like this one deliver rich, hearty flavors. Authentic Hungarian Goulash offers tender bites in a deeply flavored broth, perfect for any dining table. Serve it with bread or as a standalone meal to leave everyone satisfied. It’s a go-to recipe for feeding a crowd, thanks to its big flavors and simple process. Preparing this dish is as rewarding as enjoying it.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Hungarian Goulash

White Bean Salad

Light dishes that still pack flavor are always a great choice. White Bean Salad adds a fresh and hearty option to round out your menu. Quick to put together, it fits well as a side or a light standalone meal. This recipe keeps things simple while still delivering big on textures and taste. Ideal for adding something fresh to an otherwise heavy table.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Salad

German Meat Patties (Frikadellen)

Four German meat patties are served on a bed of sauerkraut, garnished with parsley, on a rectangular white plate with a floral napkin in the background. — German Meat Patties (Frikadellen). Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Crowd-pleasing options like this are always worth adding to the menu. German Meat Patties (Frikadellen) bring seasoned, tender bites perfect for dinners or casual gatherings. They work alongside a variety of sides, making them versatile and easy to adjust. Serve them as part of a larger feast or enjoy them as a main on their own.
Get the Recipe: German Meat Patties (Frikadellen)

Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon

Sauerkraut in a serving dish with a spoon. — Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A touch of sweetness mixed with rich flavors makes any meal memorable. Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon creates a unique side dish that pairs perfectly with traditional mains. It’s a great option for adding variety while keeping the preparation simple. This recipe balances bold tastes without overwhelming your palate. Bring it to any table to make everyday meals something special.
Get the Recipe: Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon

Classic Knackwurst & Sauerkraut

A cast iron skillet filled with sauerkraut and topped with six grilled sausages, all placed on a light wooden surface. — Classic Knackwurst & Sauerkraut. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Pairing rich sausage with tangy sides makes for a perfect match. Classic Knackwurst & Sauerkraut delivers traditional flavors, ideal for recreating Oktoberfest vibes at home. It’s a hearty dish that works for both weeknight dinners and larger gatherings. Serve it with bread or potatoes for a complete meal that satisfies every time.
Get the Recipe: Classic Knackwurst & Sauerkraut

Bacon Fried Corn

Sweet corn paired with crispy texture takes dinner to the next level. Bacon Fried Corn combines smoky, crunchy bites with natural sweetness in a way that’s impossible to resist. It’s a creative side dish for pairing with heavier mains or enjoying on its own. Quick to prepare with familiar ingredients, this dish will quickly become a household favorite.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Fried Corn

Sauerkraut Balls

A close-up shot of hands pulling apart a crispy, golden-brown, cheese-filled snack with a gooey, melted cheese center against a textured white background. — Sauerkraut Balls. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Small bites like these bring big flavor to the table. Sauerkraut Balls pack tangy and crispy satisfaction into perfect handheld portions. Ideal as appetizers, snacks, or even a unique side dish, they’re incredibly versatile. These are fun to make and even more fun to serve at gatherings of any size. Add them to your menu for something unique that’s sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Sauerkraut Balls

Cabbage and Potatoes with Bacon

A platter of Cabbage & Potatoes with Bacon and garnished with parsley. — Cabbage and Potatoes with Bacon. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Adding classic comfort to any meal is easy with Cabbage and Potatoes with Bacon. This brings together simple ingredients into a hearty dish that’s flavorful and filling. It’s perfect as a side or a main dish when you want something reliable. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, this recipe works well for both large and small groups.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Potatoes with Bacon

German Kohlrabi

Vegetable dishes like this one bring variety to the table. German Kohlrabi highlights the natural sweetness and texture of this unique vegetable with minimal effort. It’s a surprising yet approachable side to pair with your favorite mains. Preparing this recipe is simple, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Get the Recipe: German Kohlrabi

Cabbage Roll Soup

Turning classic recipes into easy soups makes dinner preparation effortless. Cabbage Roll Soup delivers all the hearty flavors of cabbage rolls without the extra work. Every bowl is full of satisfying bites perfect for cooler evenings or relaxed dining. Pair it with bread or crackers to round out the meal, or enjoy it on its own.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Roll Soup

Potatoes with Sour Cream & Bacon

A bowl of boiled potatoes with skins on, topped with a creamy herb sauce and garnished with chopped fresh dill. — Potatoes with Sour Cream & Bacon. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Combining creamy textures with crispy bites makes for a crowd-pleasing dish. Potatoes with Sour Cream & Bacon create a balance of richness and crunch that works as a side or a light main. Simple to assemble and versatile, they complement nearly every meal. These are perfect for rounding out dinner and adding a little extra indulgence.
Get the Recipe: Potatoes with Sour Cream & Bacon

Beef Goulash

Beef stew in a white bowl with a fork. — Beef Goulash. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Thick, rich meals like this one create a lasting impression. Beef Goulash offers tender pieces in a sauce packed with bold flavors that develop with every bite. Serve it over your favorite sides or enjoy it as a hearty standalone meal. This recipe is ideal for cold nights or feeding a larger group with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Beef Goulash

Yellow Plum Crumble Bars

Dessert options that feel homemade can bring extra warmth to any gathering. Yellow Plum Crumble Bars deliver layers of sweetness paired with a soft and crumbly texture. These bars are perfect for sharing at events or enjoying as a treat at home. They’re simple to slice and portion, making them a convenient option for casual serving or dessert tables.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Plum Crumble Bars

Chef Jenn’s Borscht (Beet Soup)

A bowl of borscht with a dollop of sour cream and fresh dill on top, served on a brown plate with a spoon on a marble surface. — Chef Jenn’s Borscht (Beet Soup). Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Bold soups with a mix of hearty textures feel complete without much effort. Chef Jenn’s Borscht (Beet Soup) combines earthy flavors with a vibrant color that stands out at any table. It’s a meal that can be served warm or chilled, depending on personal preference. Pair it with crackers or bread to make it a full, easy dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Chef Jenn’s Borscht (Beet Soup)

Homestyle Hamburger Stew

Filling recipes that come together easily can make weekday dinners stress-free. Homestyle Hamburger Stew takes a simple, hearty approach with comforting flavors everyone enjoys. Serve it in large bowls alongside bread or crackers to make it even more robust. It’s great for family meals or scaled-down portions for two, keeping prep flexible to suit your needs.
Get the Recipe: Homestyle Hamburger Stew

German Pork Loin

Slow, tender slices of meat often make the centerpiece of a memorable meal. German Pork Loin brings out rich flavors while remaining incredibly easy to prepare. Serve it alongside potatoes, vegetables, or a simple salad for a balanced dinner. It works well for both small dinners or larger meals, scaling your portion sizes effortlessly.
Get the Recipe: German Pork Loin

Spaetzle

Homemade pasta adds a comforting touch to dinner without needing complicated equipment. Spaetzle creates soft, handmade noodles that pair perfectly with sauces, meats, or even soups. They’re quick to cook, making them reliable for last-minute meal ideas or larger gatherings. Serve them as a side or make them the star of your plate depending on how creative you want to get.
Get the Recipe: Spaetzle

Apple Fritter Bread

Turning classic flavors into baked desserts you can enjoy anytime is always a great idea. Apple Fritter Bread brings soft layers with a hint of rich sweetness, perfect for slicing and sharing. Serve it fresh or pair it with a warm drink to make a cozy moment at the table. Easy to bake yet impressive to serve, it works beautifully as breakfast, snack, or dessert.
Get the Recipe: Apple Fritter Bread

Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill

Quick vegetable sides that pair well with proteins make any dinner feel balanced. Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill delivers bright, unique flavor in an easy-to-make recipe. Whether served as-is or alongside roasted meats, its simplicity gives it versatile appeal. Adding this to your table brings freshness without overcomplicating the menu.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill

Homemade Soft Pretzels

A hand uses a red silicone brush to apply butter or glaze to a baked soft pretzel on a baking sheet. — Homemade Soft Pretzels. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Snackable breads that feel fresh and warm are always crowd-pleasers. Homemade Soft Pretzels are easy to twist and bake, creating a soft bite that pairs wonderfully with dips or spreads. Whether served as part of a meal or for casual snacking, they’re fun to share and customize. Make a batch for family gatherings or keep them for yourself, it’s a versatile recipe everyone can enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Soft Pretzels

Roast Pork with Apples

A plate of Pork Roast with Apples on a table. — Roast Pork with Apples. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Combining tender meat with sweet touches makes meals feel comforting and complete. Roast Pork with Apples features balanced flavors that can be paired with vegetables or simple sides. It’s easy to carve and prepare, offering flexibility for family dinners or group settings. Whether served as the centerpiece or alongside other hearty options, it brings a touch of tradition to the table.
Get the Recipe: Roast Pork with Apples

German Yellow Beans

Fresh vegetable sides that bring something different to the table are great for variety. German Yellow Beans combine tender bites with simple seasoning, making them easy to cook and serve. Perfect for pairing with proteins or other warm sides, they fit into any style of dinner plan.
Get the Recipe: German Yellow Beans

Cabbage Roll Casserole

Turning time-tested dishes into baked casseroles is a smart way to make meals feel easy. Cabbage Roll Casserole combines layered goodness in a format that’s simple to serve. Perfect for family-style portions or packed as leftovers, it’s a go-to dish that doesn’t require much effort. Pair it with bread or enjoy it as-is for a dinner that feels hearty without overcomplicating things.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Roll Casserole

Dill Pickle Dip

Light, creamy snacks often bring an unexpected twist to gatherings or casual meals. Dill Pickle Dip offers bite-sized flavor that pairs well with chips, vegetables, or pretzels. It’s simple to make and keeps well for serving later, making it a great recipe for leftovers too. Serve it as an appetizer or set it out as part of a spread, it loves the spotlight either way.
Get the Recipe: Dill Pickle Dip

Hearty Cabbage and Bean Soup

A bowl of Cabbage and Bean Soup with visible chunks of vegetables and beans, garnished with sprigs of rosemary. A spoon and striped napkin are beside the bowl. — Hearty Cabbage and Bean Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Filling soups are great for meals where comfort is key. Hearty Cabbage and Bean Soup blends soft textures with rich flavor, making every spoonful warm and satisfying. Serve it with bread for dipping or enjoy it on its own as a complete, easy-to-make option. It works well for both larger gatherings or smaller family dinners with its simple, flexible portions.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Cabbage and Bean Soup

Irresistible German Chocolate Cupcakes

A close-up of German chocolate cupcakes topped with coconut-pecan frosting and a swirl of chocolate icing. — Irresistible German Chocolate Cupcakes. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Desserts that combine individual portions with bold sweetness often steal the show. Irresistible German Chocolate Cupcakes serve up rich flavors in a format that’s easy to share or save for yourself. They’re perfect for parties, events, or just a quiet evening treat, customized with finishing touches you love.
Get the Recipe: Irresistible German Chocolate Cupcakes

Yellow Bean & Potato Salad

A bowl of yellow bean and potato salad. — Yellow Bean & Potato Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Balanced dishes that mix soft and tender textures work wonders for rounding out meals. Yellow Bean & Potato Salad is a simple yet hearty side that complements both roasted meats and fresh plates. Quick prep ensures it fits well into busy meal plans while still offering homemade flavor.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Bean & Potato Salad