Get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food combination: pork and sauerkraut. This classic duo is a staple of German cuisine, but its appeal extends far beyond the Rhine River. Whether you’re looking for hearty stews, satisfying sandwiches, or creative twists on traditional dishes, pork and sauerkraut has got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the rich flavors and textures of these two beloved ingredients.
From slow cooker comfort food to quick and easy weeknight meals, our recipe roundup is designed to satisfy your cravings and inspire your cooking. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, you’ll find something to love among our collection of savory pork and sauerkraut recipes. So grab your apron, sharpen those knives, and get ready to dig in!
Slow Cooker Pork and Sauerkraut with Apples
Slow Cooker Pork and Sauerkraut with Apples: A Hearty, Autumn-Inspired Dish
This recipe combines the tender flavor of pork with the tangy crunch of sauerkraut and sweet bite of apples, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. Perfect for a cozy fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 large apple, peeled and chopped (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. In the slow cooker, combine the pork, onion, sauerkraut, brown sugar, vinegar, water, and apple.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
German-Style Pork Roast with Sauerkraut and Potatoes
This classic German-inspired dish combines the rich flavors of slow-cooked pork, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy potatoes. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork roast
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Season the pork roast with salt, pepper, and caraway seeds.
3. In a large Dutch oven or roasting pan, brown the pork roast on all sides over medium-high heat. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add sliced onion to the same pan, cooking until caramelized (about 5 minutes).
5. Add sauerkraut, garlic, and potatoes to the pan, stirring to combine.
6. Place the browned pork roast on top of the vegetables.
7. Dot the top with butter.
8. Roast in preheated oven for approximately 2 hours or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
9. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours
Pork Chops with Sauerkraut and Bacon
This recipe combines the rich flavors of pork chops, tangy sauerkraut, and crispy bacon for a satisfying winter meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1 inch thick)
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. Add olive oil to the same skillet and sauté pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Transfer to a baking sheet.
5. Top each pork chop with sauerkraut, caraway seeds, and crumbled bacon.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pork and Sauerkraut Casserole with Caraway Seeds
Pork and Sauerkraut Casserole with Caraway Seeds: A hearty, comforting dish that combines the flavors of slow-cooked pork, tangy sauerkraut, and nutty caraway seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground pork over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in sauerkraut, caraway seeds, brown sugar, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pork mixture and cooked egg noodles. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Instant Pot Pork and Sauerkraut with Beer
This hearty Instant Pot recipe combines the fall-apart tenderness of pork with the tangy crunch of sauerkraut, all infused with the deep flavor of beer. It’s a perfect comfort food dish for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup beer (any type will work)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt 2 tbsp of butter.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, pork shoulder, sauerkraut, beer, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 30 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Pork and Sauerkraut Stuffed Peppers
A hearty and flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory flavors of pork and sauerkraut.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup cooked white rice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in sauerkraut and cooked rice.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the pork mixture, filling to the top.
7. Place peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pork Tenderloin with Sauerkraut and Mustard Sauce
Pork Tenderloin with Sauerkraut and Mustard Sauce Recipe
Savor the flavors of Germany with this hearty pork tenderloin dish, paired with tangy sauerkraut and a rich mustard sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-1.5 pound) pork tenderloin
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons brown mustard
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Sear the pork tenderloin for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned. Transfer to a baking sheet.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the sauerkraut and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the mustard and honey until smooth.
6. Place the pork tenderloin in the oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Serve the pork with the sauerkraut and mustard sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pork and Sauerkraut Soup with Kielbasa
Pork and Sauerkraut Soup with Kielbasa: A Hearty and Flavorful Comfort Food
This classic soup is a staple of Eastern European cuisine, combining tender pork, tangy sauerkraut, and spicy kielbasa for a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound kielbasa, sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the pork pieces in a little oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and sauerkraut to the pot. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the kielbasa, chicken broth, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper to the pot.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pork is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pork and Sauerkraut Pierogi Bake
A hearty and comforting twist on traditional pierogi, this recipe combines the flavors of slow-cooked pork and tangy sauerkraut with a crispy, golden-brown crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pierogi (cheese or potato-filled)
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pierogi according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add sauerkraut, onion, and garlic to the skillet; stir to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the flavors meld together.
5. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the cooked pierogi in the bottom of the dish.
6. Spoon the pork and sauerkraut mixture over the pierogi, followed by the remaining pierogi.
7. Top with shredded cheese (if using) and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pork Belly with Sauerkraut and Juniper Berries
Pork Belly with Sauerkraut and Juniper Berries: A harmonious balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 2 tbsp juniper berries, crushed
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, caraway seeds, and crushed juniper berries.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork belly, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork belly in a roasting pan or Dutch oven, fat side up.
5. Add the chopped sauerkraut around the pork belly, leaving some space between the sauerkraut and the meat.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Roast for 2-3 hours, or until the pork is tender and the skin is crispy.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Pork and Sauerkraut Pizza with Swiss Cheese
Transform a classic comfort food combination into a savory pizza that’s sure to please! This unique twist on traditional pizza features tender pork, tangy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup cooked pork (such as carnitas or pulled pork)
– 1/4 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Swiss cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread cooked pork over dough, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Top pork with chopped sauerkraut.
5. Sprinkle grated Swiss cheese evenly over sauerkraut.
6. Drizzle olive oil and season with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork and Sauerkraut Dumplings
A hearty and comforting dish that combines the flavors of pork, sauerkraut, and tender dumplings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, sauerkraut, onion, garlic, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, and water until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the meat mixture and mix until just combined.
5. Drop by spoonfuls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until dumplings are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork and Sauerkraut Stew with Root Vegetables
This hearty stew combines tender pork, tangy sauerkraut, and a medley of root vegetables for a comforting and flavorful meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and sliced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the pork pieces, then set aside.
3. Add onion, garlic, and caraway seeds; cook until softened.
4. Add sauerkraut, carrots, potatoes, and parsnip; stir to combine.
5. Return the pork to the pot, add chicken broth, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until the pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Pork and Sauerkraut Reuben Sandwich
A twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, this recipe adds tender pork and tangy sauerkraut for a flavorful twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked pork shoulder or roast, thinly sliced
– 4 slices of rye bread
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons Thousand Island dressing
– 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a griddle or skillet over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, on the griddle.
4. Top with a slice of pork, some sauerkraut, and a sprinkle of Swiss cheese.
5. Spread a layer of Thousand Island dressing on top of the cheese.
6. Place the remaining bread slices, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Flip the sandwiches over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes
Pork and Sauerkraut Egg Rolls
Pork and Sauerkraut Egg Rolls Recipe
A fusion of traditional egg rolls with a German twist, these savory treats combine the flavors of pork, sauerkraut, and Asian spices. Perfect for a unique appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of egg roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section)
– 1/2 cup cooked pork shoulder, shredded
– 1/4 cup sauerkraut, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the cooked pork, sauerkraut, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, and ginger.
3. Lay an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface with one corner pointing towards you.
4. Place about 1 tablespoon of the pork mixture in the center of the wrapper.
5. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the wrapper to form a tight cylinder.
6. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
7. Cook the egg rolls in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total (depending on the number of egg rolls)
Pork and Sauerkraut Bratwurst Skillet
Get ready to savor the flavors of Germany with this hearty one-pot dish that combines juicy bratwurst, tangy sauerkraut, and crispy potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 bratwurst sausages
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the bratwurst sausages and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through.
4. Add the sliced potatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until they are tender and lightly browned.
5. Stir in the sauerkraut and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pork and Sauerkraut Hand Pies
Pork and Sauerkraut Hand Pies Recipe
A twist on traditional pies, these handheld treats combine the flavors of pork and sauerkraut with a flaky crust. Perfect for a quick snack or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup cooked pork shoulder, shredded
– 1/4 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together pork, sauerkraut, mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the pork mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around edges.
5. Fold other half over filling to form a triangle or square shape. Press edges together to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for golden brown finish.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until pastry is golden.
Pork and Sauerkraut Grilled Cheese
Elevate the humble grilled cheese with the rich flavors of caramelized pork and tangy sauerkraut. This unique combination will become your new go-to sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
– 1/2 cup cooked pork shoulder, diced
– 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: mustard or pickles for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with cheese, pork, and sauerkraut.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Pork and Sauerkraut Nachos
Pork and Sauerkraut Nachos: A Twist on a Classic!
These nachos combine the flavors of Germany and Mexico for a unique snack that’s sure to please. The tangy sauerkraut and sweet pork complement each other perfectly, making this recipe a standout.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked pork shoulder, shredded
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup cream cheese softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 8-10 tortilla chips
– Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together pork, sauerkraut, cream cheese, cilantro, and jalapeño until well combined.
3. Arrange tortilla chips on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Spoon the pork-sauerkraut mixture evenly over the tortilla chips.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese (if using) over the top.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pork and Sauerkraut Flatbread with Dill Cream
Pork and Sauerkraut Flatbread with Dill Cream: A savory twist on traditional flatbreads, this recipe combines the flavors of slow-cooked pork and tangy sauerkraut with a dollop of creamy dill sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup caramelized onions (see note)
– 1/2 cup cooked pork shoulder, shredded
– 1/4 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup dill cream (see recipe below)
Dill Cream:
– 8 ounces sour cream
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 1 cup of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add remaining flour, kneading until smooth.
4. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Top with caramelized onions, pork shoulder, and sauerkraut.
5. Fold edges over filling to form a crust.
6. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve with dill cream.
Note: Caramelize onions by cooking 1 large onion in olive oil over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the comforting flavors of pork and sauerkraut with these 20 savory recipes. From slow cooker meals to Instant Pot creations, there’s something for every taste bud. Try the Slow Cooker Pork and Sauerkraut with Apples or the German-Style Pork Roast with Sauerkraut and Potatoes for hearty comfort food. Or get creative with dishes like Pork Chops with Sauerkraut and Bacon or Pork and Sauerkraut Stuffed Peppers. Whether you’re in the mood for a warm casserole, a tangy soup, or a satisfying sandwich, this collection of recipes has got you covered.
Leave a Reply