Pork and sauerkraut is a classic dish that brings together the rich, savory flavors of tender pork and the tangy zest of sauerkraut. It’s a comfort food that has stood the test of time, especially in German, Polish, and American traditions, where it’s often served as a symbol of good luck and prosperity for the new year. Whether you’re cooking it for a holiday celebration or simply craving a hearty, satisfying meal, this dish never disappoints. The combination of pork and sauerkraut creates a perfect balance of flavors, and the best part is that it’s easy to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients. Let’s dive into this timeless recipe and explore how to make the most delicious pork and sauerkraut at home.
Why You’ll Love this Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor, this pork and sauerkraut recipe is a must-try. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: With just a few key ingredients—tender pork, tangy sauerkraut, and a handful of seasonings—you can create a meal that’s packed with rich, savory flavors and just the right amount of tang.
- Hearty and Filling: This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner. The combination of pork and sauerkraut provides the perfect balance of protein and vegetables, making it a satisfying meal on its own or paired with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.
- Easy to Make: Whether you’re using a slow cooker, stovetop, or oven, this recipe is simple and doesn’t require a lot of attention during the cooking process. Just set it up, and let the flavors develop while you go about your day.
- Health Benefits: Not only is it delicious, but sauerkraut is also packed with probiotics that promote good gut health, making this dish a great option for those looking for both comfort and wellness in their meals.
- Perfect for Special Occasions: Pork and sauerkraut has become a tradition for many families, especially during New Year’s celebrations, as it symbolizes good luck and prosperity for the year ahead.
Ingredients you’ll need
To make this delicious pork and sauerkraut dish, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- Pork shoulder (or pork loin for a leaner option) – This cut is ideal for slow-cooking, as it becomes tender and flavorful as it simmers.
- Sauerkraut – The star of the dish! Look for high-quality, well-fermented sauerkraut for the best flavor.
- Onions – Chopped onions add a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to balance the tangy sauerkraut.
- Garlic – Minced garlic brings an aromatic punch to the dish.
- Caraway seeds – An optional but traditional addition that complements the sauerkraut with its warm, earthy flavor.
- Apple cider vinegar – This helps enhance the tanginess of the sauerkraut and adds an extra layer of flavor.
- Pork broth or water – A flavorful cooking liquid to keep the dish moist and enrich the flavors.
- Salt and pepper – To season the dish to taste.
- Fresh thyme or bay leaves (optional) – These herbs add fragrance and additional flavor as the dish simmers.
With these simple ingredients, you’ll be able to create a comforting and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
How to Make Pork and Sauerkraut Recipe
Making pork and sauerkraut is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps to create a hearty, flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion:
Prepare the Pork
- Start by seasoning your pork with salt and pepper. You can also add extra spices like garlic powder or onion powder for more depth of flavor.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil. Once the pan is hot, sear the pork on all sides until it’s nicely browned. This step helps lock in the juices and enhances the overall flavor.
- After searing, remove the pork from the pan and set it aside.
Sauté the Aromatics (Optional)
- In the same pan, add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them for a few minutes until they become soft and fragrant.
- If you’re using caraway seeds, sprinkle them in at this point to release their warm, aromatic flavors.
Add Sauerkraut and Layer the Ingredients
- Add your sauerkraut to the pan (or directly into the slow cooker if using). Spread it out evenly in the pan or slow cooker.
- Place the seared pork on top of the sauerkraut.
- Pour in a splash of apple cider vinegar to enhance the tanginess and a bit of pork broth (or water) to keep the dish moist while cooking. If you like, add a couple of bay leaves or fresh thyme for added fragrance and flavor.
Cook the Pork and Sauerkraut
- Slow Cooker Method: Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork. The slow cooking process will infuse all the flavors together perfectly.
- Stovetop Method: Simmer the pork and sauerkraut mixture on low heat for 2-3 hours, making sure to check occasionally to ensure it doesn’t burn. Add a little more broth or water if needed.
- Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Cover the dish with foil and cook for about 3-4 hours, until the pork is fork-tender.
Shred the Pork and Serve
- Once the pork is cooked through and tender, remove it from the heat and shred it with two forks.
- Mix the shredded pork back into the sauerkraut to combine the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the pork and sauerkraut with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, boiled potatoes, or crusty bread. The rich, savory pork pairs perfectly with the tangy sauerkraut, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Enjoy your warm, hearty, and flavorful pork and sauerkraut dish! Whether it’s for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Tips for the Best Pork and Sauerkraut

o make sure your pork and sauerkraut dish turns out perfectly every time, here are some tried-and-true tips that will elevate the flavors and texture of the meal:
Pick the Right Cut of Pork
For the juiciest and most tender result, pork shoulder is the way to go. Its marbling of fat ensures the meat stays moist and becomes super tender as it cooks slowly. If you’re looking for a leaner cut, pork loin can work as well, but be mindful not to overcook it, as it can dry out more easily.
Don’t Skip Searing the Pork
Searing the pork before slow cooking is key to building flavor. When you brown the pork on all sides, it creates a rich, flavorful crust that seals in the juices, resulting in a juicier and tastier dish.
Use High-Quality Sauerkraut
The quality of your sauerkraut plays a big role in the final taste of the dish. Opt for a well-fermented sauerkraut that has a good balance of tang and crunch. If you can find homemade or small-batch sauerkraut, even better!
Add a Touch of Sweetness
For a lovely contrast to the tangy sauerkraut, try adding some apple slices or diced apples to the pot. The sweetness will complement the sauerkraut’s sourness, balancing out the flavors and adding a fresh note to the dish.
Season with Herbs and Spices
To bring extra flavor, consider adding caraway seeds (a classic pairing with sauerkraut), fresh thyme, or bay leaves. If you want to add a smoky depth to the dish, a pinch of smoked paprika can do wonders.
Pork and Sauerkraut Variations
While the classic pork and sauerkraut recipe is always a crowd-pleaser, there are many ways to tweak the dish to suit your preferences or create a fresh twist on this traditional favorite. Here are a few fun and tasty variations you can try:

Add Sausage for Extra Flavor
For a heartier, more robust meal, consider adding smoked sausage or bratwurst to your pork and sauerkraut. The sausage adds a smoky, savory flavor that complements the pork and sauerkraut beautifully. Slice the sausage and add it in during the last hour of cooking so it has time to infuse its flavor without overcooking.
Sweet and Savory Twist with Apples
For a touch of sweetness, try adding apples (either sliced or chopped) to the dish. Apples pair wonderfully with sauerkraut, balancing the tanginess with their natural sweetness. A few sliced Granny Smith apples work particularly well, or you can use applesauce for a more subtle flavor.
Spicy Kick with Jalapeños or Hot Paprika
If you enjoy a little heat, adding jalapeños, hot paprika, or even a dash of red pepper flakes will give your dish a spicy kick. The heat enhances the tang of the sauerkraut and brings an exciting flavor contrast to the rich, savory pork.
Crockpot Pork and Sauerkraut
For a hands-off variation, make your pork and sauerkraut in the slow cooker. Simply add the pork, sauerkraut, seasonings, and any extra ingredients like apples or sausage into the slow cooker, and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours. This method yields tender, fall-apart pork and a rich, flavorful sauce with minimal effort.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the tradition of pork and sauerkraut?
Pork and sauerkraut is often considered a traditional New Year’s dish in many cultures, especially in German and Eastern European traditions. It’s believed that eating pork symbolizes progress and prosperity, while sauerkraut, with its long fermentation process, symbolizes good luck and longevity for the year ahead.
How healthy are pork and sauerkraut?
Pork and sauerkraut can be a healthy meal choice when prepared with lean cuts of pork. The sauerkraut is rich in probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health. Additionally, the dish is low in carbohydrates and high in protein, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet. However, it’s important to watch the salt content in some varieties of sauerkraut.
What is good to eat with pork and sauerkraut?
Pork and sauerkraut pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Classic options include mashed potatoes, boiled potatoes, or boiled dumplings. For a lighter touch, you could also serve it with a simple green salad or crusty bread to soak up the savory juices.
What pork is best for sauerkraut?
The best cut of pork for this dish is pork shoulder or pork butt because of their tenderness and marbling. These cuts become juicy and flavorful when slow-cooked. If you prefer a leaner option, pork loin can also work but may require more careful cooking to avoid drying out.
What is the liquid in sauerkraut called?
The liquid in sauerkraut is referred to as sauerkraut brine. It’s a natural byproduct of the fermentation process, made up of the cabbage’s own juices combined with salt. The brine contains beneficial bacteria from the fermentation and adds tangy flavor to the dish.
Is sauerkraut good for you?
Yes! Sauerkraut is not only low in calories but also packed with probiotics, which promote gut health. It’s a great source of vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. Additionally, it helps with digestion and can contribute to overall immune system health.

Pork and Sauerkraut Recipe
- Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
Description
This Pork and Sauerkraut recipe is truly the best! Tender, juicy pork is perfectly complemented by sauerkraut infused with the sweetness of apples. This Slow Cooker Pork and Sauerkraut is not only simple to make but also absolutely delicious!
Ingredients
- 3 pound pork loin trimmed of excess fat
- salt and pepper
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 16 ounces sauerkraut drained
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 onion sliced
- 1 apple sliced
- 1 cup apple juice
Instructions
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Liberally season the pork loin with salt and pepper on all sides.
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Heat oil in a large skillet or a dutch oven. Sear pork loin on all sides, 2-3 minutes per side.
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Add seared pork into a slow cooker. Pour in apple juice. Place onions, apples, and garlic around the pork loin. Top with sauerkraut.
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Place lid on the slow cooker and cook for 4-5 hours on high or 8-10 hours on low.
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Remove pork and slice or shred and serve with cooking liquids.
Notes
Sauerkraut: 16 ounces of sauerkraut is enough for a 2-4 pound pork loin. Any larger pork loin, you will want to double the amount of sauerkraut. And be sure to drain the liquid off the sauerkraut.
Apples: Use any apple that holds up well to baking, such as a Braeburn, Granny Smith, or Golden Delicious.
Apple Juice: If you don’t have apple juice, use chicken stock in its place, but add in 2 tablespoons of brown sugar to help balance the flavors in this pork and sauerkraut. But I am telling you, the apple juice makes this dish incredible.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 8hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 servings
- Calories: 267kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 107mg
Keywords: Pork and Sauerkraut recipe