When cool autumn nights arrive, nothing satisfies quite like a hearty, homemade casserole. This easy one-pan Pork Chop and Sauerkraut Casserole combines tender pork chops, creamy potatoes, tart apples, and tangy sauerkraut for a flavorsome meal that’s perfect for two.
Made in a cast iron skillet, this German-inspired bake is layered up with simple pantry ingredients. As everything simmers away in the oven, the sauerkraut infuses the dish with its signature zing. It’s comfort food at its finest – warm, filling, and full of old-world character. Keep reading for the steps to make this satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Part of the appeal of this recipe is that it uses simple ingredients you likely already have on hand:
Pork chops – Choose bone-in for the best flavor and tenderness. Any thickness works.
Potatoes – Starchy russets are ideal. Thinly slice into rounds.
Onion – One medium onion, diced. You could also use shallots.
Apple – Opt for a tart Granny Smith or other firm, tart apple. Dice the peeled apple.
Sauerkraut – Use refrigerated, not canned. About 1 1/2 cups.
Chicken broth – Adds moisture. Use low-sodium if you prefer.
Butter – For browning the pork chops.
Caraway seeds – Toast them briefly for maximum flavor.
Salt and pepper – For seasoning each layer.
That’s it! Now let’s get this comforting casserole assembled.
Simple Steps to Build the Bake
Part of the fun of casseroles is layering up all the ingredients. Follow these easy steps:
Brown seasoned pork chops in butter to develop flavor. Set aside.
Sauté onion, apples and caraway seeds until softened.
Layer potato slices in the skillet. Season with salt and pepper.
Top with half the onion-apple mix, then the sauerkraut.
Add remaining onion-apple mix. Nestle chops into the kraut.
Pour in broth. Cover and bake at 350°F for 45-60 mins until pork is cooked through.
The potatoes soak up all the delicious flavors as the casserole bakes. Feel free to tweak the ingredients to your tastes – add mushrooms, peas, extra seasonings or cheese.
Serving and Storing Leftovers
This hearty bake is delicious on its own, but crusty bread is a nice accompaniment to soak up the tasty juices.
Tightly cover and refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave until hot. You can also reheat the entire casserole in a 350°F oven.
The casserole freezes well too. Let cool completely first, then freeze up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
A few final serving suggestions:
Garnish with fresh dill or parsley
Stir in caraway seeds or mustard for more flavor
Serve with cabbage salad on the side
Pass around grainy mustard and rye bread
The Perfect Meal for Two
When you’re looking for a hearty, fuss-free meal for two, look no further than this sauerkraut pork chop casserole. Laden with potatoes, apples, onion and zingy kraut, it’s pure comfort food.
The one-pan preparation means quick assembly with minimal cleanup. As the dish bakes, the house fills with tempting aromas. Finally, you can dig into a mouthwatering meal straight from the oven.
This old-world recipe is easy to double if you have extra mouths to feed. Simply use a larger skillet and add a few more chops and veggies.
However you make it, this sauerkraut casserole is sure to satisfy. The perfect pick for a cozy meal on an autumn evening!