Octoberfest

Treat family or friends to an Octoberfest celebration with one or more of the hearty German-inspired dishes below. (For hundreds more German recipes, visit our new Recipe Channel!)

Bavarian Meatball Stew
"This thick, tangy soup has been one of our favorites ever since my daughter gave me the recipe years ago," says Janice Mitchell of Aurora, Colorado. "It’s satisfying any time, but especially wonderful on a chilly evening."

German Sauerbraten
Our family loves it when Mom prepares this wonderful old-world dish. The tender beef has a bold blend of mouth-watering seasonings. It smells so good in the oven and tastes even better! —Cathy Eland Highttown, New Jersey

Cabbage Roll Casserole
Field editor Doreen Martin of Kitimat, British Columbia layers cabbage and a ground beef filling lasagna-style in this hearty casserole that cabbage-roll lovers will savor.

Sweet-Sour Red Cabbage
This crunchy, eye-catching cooked cabbage is seasoned with a flavorful blend of vinegar, spices and bacon. —Cathy Eland Hightstown, New Jersey

Potato Dumplings
With a few additional basic ingredients, my mom transforms potatoes into these delightful dumplings. This authentic German side dish is so hearty and comforting. —Cathy Eland Hightstown, New Jersey

German-Style Green Beans
My mother-in-law introduced me to this quick down-home dish when I was a new bride. The tender green beans are topped with diced bacon and a classic sweet-sour glaze. —Vivian Steers, Central Islip, New York

German Chocolate Cheesecake
"My daughter requests this as her birthday cake, and I take it to potlucks, church dinners or any time the dessert is my responsibility," says Kathy Johnson of Lake City, South Dakota.

Black Forest Crepes
"I like this recipe because it is easy to make," says Irene Menninga of Grand Rapids, Michigan. "I often prepare the crepes and filling in advance, assembling them and adding the topping just before serving."

Plum Streusel Kuchen
This recipe is actually called ”platz” in German, meaning ”flat,” and has been in my family since before I was born. The fresh fruits of summer make it a favorite, and it’s simply wonderful warm out of the oven. —Lisa Warkentin, Winnipeg, Manitoba