Description
This comforting pork and sauerkraut recipe combines tender, browned boneless pork chops baked slowly with tangy sauerkraut, sweet apples, and brown sugar to create a flavorful and hearty dish perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pork
- 1.5–2 lbs Boneless Pork Chops
- 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
- 1/4 tsp Fresh Cracked Pepper
- 2 tbsp Neutral Oil
Sauerkraut Mixture
- 2 (16 oz) jars Sauerkraut (with caraway seeds, NOT drained)
- 1 large Red Apple (roughly chopped)
- 3/4 cup Brown Sugar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C) to ensure a low and slow baking process that will tenderize the pork and meld the flavors.
- Season Pork Chops: Pat the boneless pork chops dry, then generously season both sides with kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper for balanced seasoning.
- Heat Pan and Oil: Place a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat and add the neutral oil. Swirl it around to coat the bottom evenly, preparing for searing.
- Sear Pork Chops: Add the seasoned pork chops to the hot pan and cook for a few minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust. The pork should be just browned and not cooked through at this stage. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Grab a 10×7.5 inch baking dish and spread half of the undrained sauerkraut evenly on the bottom. Layer the browned pork chops on top, followed by the remaining sauerkraut, roughly chopped apple, and sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over everything.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to keep moisture in, then bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour. This slow baking will tenderize the pork and blend the flavors.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for one additional hour to allow the top to brown nicely and develop deeper flavors.
- Rest and Serve: After baking, let the dish rest for 10 minutes to let juices redistribute. Serve warm and enjoy the perfect balance of savory pork, tangy sauerkraut, and sweet apples.
Notes
- Using undrained sauerkraut adds moisture and flavor to the dish, so avoid draining it.
- The low oven temperature and long baking time ensure tender pork and melded flavors.
- Adjust baking time based on the thickness of your pork chops.
- You can substitute the neutral oil with olive oil or canola oil.
- Serve with mustard or rye bread for a traditional touch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Eastern European
Keywords: pork chops, sauerkraut, apples, baked pork, comfort food, holiday recipe
