Pioneer Woman’s Pork Chops and Sauerkraut is a classic comfort dish that brings together the savory taste of tender pork chops with the tangy bite of sauerkraut. This dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a cozy family dinner, especially during the colder months. The combination of pork and sauerkraut creates a deliciously balanced meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and satisfying.

What is Pioneer Woman Pork Chops and Sauerkraut?

Pioneer Woman’s Pork Chops and Sauerkraut is a dish that features bone-in or boneless pork chops cooked alongside sauerkraut, onions, and apples. The pork chops are seared to lock in their juices, then simmered with the sauerkraut mixture until tender. The sauerkraut, with its tangy flavor, complements the richness of the pork, while the apples add a touch of sweetness that balances the dish beautifully.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

Simple Ingredients: This dish uses everyday ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.
One-Pan Meal: Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
Perfect Flavor Balance: The savory pork, tangy sauerkraut, and sweet apples create a perfectly balanced flavor profile.

Comfort Food: This dish is hearty and satisfying, making it ideal for a comforting dinner on a cold night.
Family-Friendly: The flavors in this dish are mild and appealing, making it a hit with both kids and adults.

Ingredients Needed to Make Pioneer Woman Pork Chops and Sauerkraut

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish:

4 bone-in or boneless pork chops
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons of olive oil

1 large onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 can (16 oz) of sauerkraut, drained

1 large apple, peeled, cored, and sliced
1 teaspoon of caraway seeds (optional)
1/2 cup of chicken broth or apple cider

1 tablespoon of brown sugar (optional, for added sweetness)

Equipment

For this recipe, you’ll need:

Large Skillet: For searing the pork chops and cooking the sauerkraut mixture.

Tongs or Spatula: For turning the pork chops.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: These are used to measure the ingredients accurately.

Instructions to Make Pioneer Woman Pork Chops and Sauerkraut

Season the Pork Chops: Start by seasoning the pork chops on both sides with salt and pepper.

Sear the Pork Chops: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops and sear them for 3-4 minutes per side, until they’re golden brown. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
Cook the Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook them over medium heat until they’re softened and starting to caramelize about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Add Sauerkraut and Apples: Stir in the drained sauerkraut and sliced apples. If using, sprinkle in the caraway seeds for an extra layer of flavor. Stir everything together to combine well.

Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth or apple cider, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. These bits add extra flavor to the dish.
Return Pork Chops to the Skillet: Place the seared pork chops back into the skillet, nestling them into the sauerkraut mixture. If you prefer a slightly sweeter dish, sprinkle the brown sugar over the top.
Simmer the Dish: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the pork chops and sauerkraut simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and tender. The internal temperature of the pork should reach 145°F (63°C).

Serve: Once the pork chops are fully cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the pork chops hot, alongside the sauerkraut and apple mixture.

What Goes Well With Pioneer Woman Pork Chops and Sauerkraut

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides that complement the rich and tangy flavors:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the delicious juices from the pork and sauerkraut.

Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts for a hearty and balanced meal.
Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread is great for sopping up any extra sauce.
Dumplings: Traditional German-style dumplings make a great accompaniment to this dish.

Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast to the rich flavors of the pork and sauerkraut.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Pioneer Woman Pork Chops and Sauerkraut

Here are some tips to ensure your pork chops and sauerkraut turn out perfectly:

Sear the Pork Chops Well: Searing the pork chops before simmering helps lock in the juices and adds a depth of flavor to the dish.

Don’t Skip the Deglazing: Deglazing the pan with chicken broth or apple cider lifts all the flavorful bits from the skillet, enhancing the overall taste.
Use Good-Quality Sauerkraut: For the best flavor, choose a good-quality sauerkraut. If it’s too tangy, you can rinse it briefly before adding it to the dish.
Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dish, don’t hesitate to add a bit more brown sugar or even a splash of apple cider vinegar to balance the flavors.

Simmer Slowly: Allow the pork chops to simmer gently so they stay tender and don’t dry out.

Variations of Pioneer Woman Pork Chops and Sauerkraut

Feel free to customize this dish to your taste:

Add Potatoes: Add diced potatoes to the skillet along with the sauerkraut for a one-pan meal.

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
Smoky Flavor: Use smoked pork chops instead of regular ones for a smoky flavor that pairs well with the sauerkraut.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the skillet for a fragrant twist.

Apple Cider Vinegar: If you like a tangier dish, add a splash of apple cider vinegar towards the end of cooking.

Storing Pioneer Woman Pork Chops and Sauerkraut: Best Practices

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store them properly:

Refrigerate Properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freeze for Later: You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Pioneer Woman Pork Chops and Sauerkraut: Best Practices

To enjoy your leftovers, reheat them carefully:

Stovetop Method: Reheat the pork chops and sauerkraut in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.

Microwave Method: Microwave individual portions on medium power until heated through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in?

Yes, you can use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in for this recipe. Boneless chops may cook slightly faster, so be sure to check for doneness early to prevent overcooking. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork.

How do I prevent the pork chops from drying out?

To prevent the pork chops from drying out, sear them first to lock in the juices, then simmer them gently in the sauerkraut mixture. Cooking on low heat and covering the skillet will help keep the chops tender and juicy.

Should I rinse the sauerkraut before cooking?

Rinsing the sauerkraut is optional and depends on your taste preference. Rinsing can reduce the tanginess if you find it too strong, but if you enjoy a bold flavor, you can use the sauerkraut straight from the can or jar without rinsing.

Can I add potatoes to the dish?

Yes, you can add diced potatoes to the skillet along with the sauerkraut and apples. The potatoes will cook in the flavorful juices, making this a hearty one-pan meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Final Words

Pioneer Woman’s Pork Chops and Sauerkraut is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for any time of year. With its tender pork chops and tangy sauerkraut balanced by the sweetness of apples, this meal is sure to become a family favorite.

Enjoy this satisfying and delicious recipe, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family!

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