This Pioneer Woman Pork Chops and Sauerkraut recipe is the ultimate comfort food—tender pork chops baked with tangy sauerkraut, sweet apples, and savory onions. It’s a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to prep and packed with nostalgic flavor. Perfect for chilly nights or family gatherings!
Why You’ll Love This Pork Chops And Sauerkraut Recipe
- Old-fashioned oven-baked goodness – A Sunday dinner classic with layers of sweet and savory flavor.
- Hearty and wholesome – A balanced blend of protein, fiber, and natural sweetness.
- Minimal prep, maximum reward – The oven does most of the work for you.
- Perfect for leftovers – Tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients
- 8 center cut pork chops
- 2 pounds sauerkraut, drained
- 1 large red apple, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
How to Make Pork Chops And Sauerkraut
- Bake for 45 minutes, or until the pork reaches 145°F on an instant-read thermometer.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown the pork chops in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes per side. Transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix sauerkraut blend: In a bowl, combine sauerkraut, diced apple, onion, brown sugar, and caraway seeds.
- Assemble and bake: Spread the sauerkraut mixture over the pork chops. Cover the dish with foil.

Expert Tips
- Rinse your sauerkraut if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Use a thermometer to avoid overcooking pork (145°F is perfect).
- Brown sugar control: Adjust amount based on desired sweetness.
- Go for Granny Smith or Braeburn apples for a tart contrast.
Recipe Variations
- Crockpot Style: Cook on low for 6-7 hours for fall-apart tender pork.
- Smoky Twist: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a splash of BBQ sauce.
- Apple Cider Swap: Replace brown sugar with 1/2 cup apple cider for a fruitier edge.
- German-Style: Add sliced bratwurst and a pinch of mustard seeds.
- Low-Carb Version: Use a sugar-free sweetener and skip the apple.
Storage Instructions
In the Fridge: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
In the Freezer: Freeze in sealed containers or bags for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat Pork Chops and Sauerkraut
- Microwave: Cover and heat in short intervals (4-7 minutes total), stirring occasionally.
- Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use boneless pork chops instead?
Yes! Just check for doneness earlier, as they may cook faster. - What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying out the pork?
Add a splash of broth or apple juice and cover the dish while reheating. - How do I make the sauerkraut less sour?
Rinse before using and mix with a little more sugar or apple for balance. - Do I need to marinate the pork first?
Not required, but you can for added depth—try a simple garlic and herb marinade. - Can I prep this ahead?
Yes! Assemble the dish the night before, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Try More Pioneer Woman Recipe:
- Pioneer Woman Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole
- Pioneer Woman Chicken Biscuit Casserole
- Pioneer Woman Chicken Dorito Casserole
Nutrition Facts
Amount Per Serving
- Calories 363
- Total Fat 10g
- Saturated Fat 4g
- Cholesterol 70mg
- Sodium 800mg
- Total Carbohydrate 39g
- Dietary Fiber 4g
- Total Sugars 33g
- Protein 29g
- Vitamin C 21mg
- Calcium 76mg
- Iron 3mg
- Potassium 711mg

Pioneer Woman Pork Chops And Sauerkraut
Description
A nostalgic oven-baked dish with tender pork, tangy kraut, and sweet apples—perfect for a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Brown pork chops 5 minutes per side. Place in 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix sauerkraut, apple, onion, sugar, and caraway seeds. Spread over pork.
- Cover with foil. Bake 45 minutes or until pork reaches 145°F.
Notes
- Rinse kraut if needed to reduce sourness.
Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
Try tart apples for better flavor contrast.
Make ahead friendly—just bake when ready!
Pioneer Woman Pork Chops And Sauerkraut