The Pioneer Woman’s Pork Chops with Sauerkraut Recipe, also known as German Pork Chops, is a hearty, comforting meal that the whole family is sure to adore and enjoy. It requires few ingredients and is so simple to prepare: just boneless pork chops, sauerkraut, apples, and the necessary cooking utensils.
I’ll explain all you need to know to create the pioneer woman’s pork chops and sauerkaut, but if you have any questions or concerns before you start cooking, you can find answers in the FAQ that’s included with the recipe.
What Is Sauerkraut?
Sauerkraut is fermented raw cabbage created by the action of several lactic acid bacteria. The fermentation of the sugars in the cabbage leaves gives sauerkraut its characteristic sour flavor and lengthy storage life. In Germany, it is considered a classic dish.
Is Pork Chops And Sauerkaut Good For You?
This sauerkraut that we will be using alongside the pork chops in this pioneer woman recipe is high in fiber, vitamins A and K, and boosts the immune system with energy and iron.
The fermentation process required to make sauerkraut produces live bacteria, or probiotics, which replenish good bacteria in the gut and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
Ingredients That You’ll Need:
This recipe for pork chops and sauerkaut from the pioneer woman calls for ingredients that can be obtained in most supermarkets:
- Boneless Pork Chops: Can be found at Costco or Porter Road.
- Apples: If apple isn’t an available option just swap it with a cup of apple sauce.
- Sauerkraut: I recommend using Eden Organics or Cleveland Kraut brand sauerkraut, you can find both at Walmart and Target, and are made without preservatives.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin oil is recommended.
Is Store-bought Sauerkraut Good For You?
Store-bought sauerkraut is considered less nutritious compared to homemade sauerkraut due to pasteurization. Most store-bought sauerkraut varieties are canned before they are pasteurized, which eliminates their live probiotic content.
Which Brand Of Sauerkraut Is Best?
- Bubbies Sauerkraut, 25 Ounce, 2 Pack
- Bubbies Sauerkraut, 25 Ounce
- Raw Organic Sauerkraut, “Purple Cabbage” Variety, 16 Oz Jar
- Frank’s Bavarian Sauerkraut, 14-Ounce (Pack of 12)
What Other Cuts Of Pork Can Be Used To Make Pork Chops And Sauerkaut?
This recipe can be made with any cut of pork, however, keep in mind that the cooking times will vary, depending on the cut. for me, I love it with boneless pork loin.
What Should The Internal Temperature Be When Pork Chops Are Cooked?
145 degrees Fahrenheit is the optimal internal temperature for making tender, moist pork chops.
What Sides Go Well With Pork And Sauerkraut?
- Green Beans with Mushrooms and Shallots
- Short Rib Stroganoff
- Roasted Broccoli and Garlic
- Roasted Asparagus with Lemon and Garlic
- Homemade Mashed Potatoes
How To Make Pioneer Woman Pork Chops And Sauerkaut?
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F.
- Place the olive oil in an oven-safe pan and heat over medium to high heat.
- Next, add the chops to the hot pan and cook for about 5 minutes, or until they begin to become golden brown.
- Flip them over and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the pan.
- At this stage, add the sauerkraut and apple slices to the pan, followed by the browned pork chops.
- Place your skillet in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, covered.
- Remove the cover and simmer for another 15 minutes, or until the pork achieves an internal temperature of at least 145 degrees.
- Finally, serve your pork chops with sauerkaut alone or with your favorite side.
How To Make Pork Chops And Sauerkaut In A Slow Cooker?
- In the bottom of your slow cooker, layer the sauerkraut and apples.
- Next, cook the pork chops on all sides in a big pan over medium heat.
- Remove the browned chops from the skillet and set them in your slow cooker on top of the sauerkraut and apples.
- Cook, covered, for 5 to 6 hours on low heat.
How To Make Pork Chops And Sauerkaut On Stove-top?
If you are tight on oven space, this dish can easily be cooked on top of the stove. Instead of placing the pork, apples, and sauerkraut in the oven, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until the pork is cooked through, which should take about 40 to 50 minutes.
Recipe Tips
- It’s okay to use either boneless or bone-in chops or pork, loins of pork will also work – no effect on flavor, I shop based on store sales.
- Brown the pork before finishing the chops in the oven. This adds amazing flavor and a tender result every time.
FAQ Section
This dish for pork chops with sauerkaut is perfect for prepping ahead of time. First, brown your pork chops, then transfer them to an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to a day. Prepare the sauerkraut, apples, and browned pork by combining all of the ingredients in an ovenproof pan, covering it, and baking it for an hour before serving.
Leftover pork chops and sauerkaut can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days if properly refrigerated. Make sure to put your leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them.
Begin by putting your leftover pork chops and sauerkaut in an ovenproof pan and covering it. Bake your leftovers at 325°F for 30 to 40 minutes, or until heated through.
Properly frozen pork chops and sauerkraut can last 3 months. Airtight containers or stasher bags should hold leftovers. To reheat, thaw pork and sauerkraut overnight and arrange in an ovenproof dish. Cover and bake at 325F for 30-40 minutes.
Sauerkraut helps you lose weight. Sauerkraut is low-calorie and high-fiber, like other vegetables. High-fiber diets may help you burn fewer calories by keeping you full longer.
Because canned sauerkraut usually comes in brine (salt and water), there’s no need to rinse it before straining. This preserves the sauerkraut’s flavor.
Although pork is the best red meat to pair with sauerkraut, smoked chicken, turkey, and other smoked sausages are also delicious options.
Pioneer Woman Pork Chops And Sauerkaut
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless pork chops
- 2 small to medium apples sliced
- 2 ½ cups sauerkraut store-bought or homemade
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F.
- Place the olive oil in an oven-safe pan and heat over medium to high heat.
- Next, add the chops to the hot pan and cook for about 5 minutes, or until they begin to become golden brown.
- Flip them over and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the pan.
- At this stage, add the sauerkraut and apple slices to the pan, followed by the browned pork chops.
- Place your skillet in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, covered.
- Remove the cover and simmer for another 15 minutes, or until the pork achieves an internal temperature of at least 145 degrees.
- Finally, serve your pork chops with sauerkaut alone or with your favorite side.
Notes
- It’s okay to use either boneless or bone-in chops or pork, loins of pork will also work – no effect on flavor. I shop based on store sales.
- Brown the pork before finishing the chops in the oven. This adds amazing flavor and a tender result every time.
Ian
Wednesday 11th of December 2024
Pork, apples and sauerkraut are such a tasty combo, thanks for this recipe. Great with some potato dumplings too.
Preston
Wednesday 4th of December 2024
This is basically what I had in mind when I searched for "pork chops in sauerkraut". A small onion would fit right in. Caraway seeds too. And a little beer if the sauerkraut needs more liquid...
That said, I admire the simplicity of the recipe that you present here.