Skillet

Skillet Pork And Sauerkraut

Name: Skillet Pork And Sauerkraut
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 120 min
Total time: 140 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) pork shoulder, boneless; 6 slices of thick-cut bacon; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 cup (250g) sauerkraut, drained and rinsed; 1 tsp (5g) caraway seeds; 1 tsp (5g) salt; 1/2 tsp (2g) black pepper; 2 tbsp (30g) olive oil; 1 cup (250ml) chicken broth

By Odette Delacroix · June 19, 2026 · Skillet

Prep20 min

Cook120 min

Total140 min

Serves4

Skillet Pork And Sauerkraut, a comfort classic

There's something special about a warm, comforting skillet dish that brings everyone together. For me, it's the smell of smoky pork and bacon that instantly feels like home. Growing up, my family would often gather around the table for a hearty meal, and my mom's skillet pork and sauerkraut was always a crowd-pleaser.

As I grew older, I began to appreciate the art of cooking and the joy of sharing meals with loved ones. I started experimenting with different recipes, but my mom's skillet pork and sauerkraut remained a staple in our household. There's just something about the combination of tender pork, crispy bacon, and tangy sauerkraut that hits the spot every time.

In this recipe, I'll guide you through the process of creating a delicious skillet pork and sauerkraut dish that's sure to become a favorite in your household. From the initial prep work to the final presentation, I'll share my tips and tricks for achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is approachable and easy to follow. So, let's get started and create a meal that will leave everyone feeling full and satisfied!

Skillet pork and sauerkraut is a versatile dish that can be served on its own or paired with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. It's also a great option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, as it's both comforting and impressive.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal preparation time.
The combination of pork, bacon, and sauerkraut is a classic comfort food combination that's sure to please.
The dish is versatile and can be served with a variety of sides, making it perfect for any occasion.
The layering effect in this recipe adds depth and complexity to the dish, making it more interesting and engaging.
The resting time ensures that the pork stays tender and juicy, making it a great option for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to a great skillet pork and sauerkraut dish lies in the balance of flavors and textures. By cooking the pork and bacon in a skillet, we can achieve a nice crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy. The sauerkraut adds a tangy, slightly sour flavor that complements the richness of the pork and bacon.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of layers. By cooking the bacon and pork in a skillet, we can create a flavorful base that's enhanced by the addition of sauerkraut and other ingredients. This layering effect adds depth and complexity to the dish, making it more interesting and engaging.

Finally, the resting time is crucial in this recipe. By allowing the pork to rest before slicing, we can ensure that the juices are redistributed and the meat stays tender. This step may seem simple, but it makes a big difference in the final result.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to ingredients, it's all about quality and balance. For this recipe, we'll need a few key players, including pork shoulder, bacon, sauerkraut, and some basic spices. Be sure to choose a good-quality pork shoulder with a nice layer of fat, as this will add flavor and tenderness to the dish.

For the bacon, look for thick-cut slices that are smoked or cured for added flavor. The sauerkraut should be tangy and slightly sour, with a nice crunch to it. Finally, don't forget to have some basic spices on hand, such as salt, pepper, and caraway seeds.

1 lb (450g) pork shoulder, bonelessChoose a good-quality pork shoulder with a nice layer of fat for added flavor and tenderness. You can also use pork butt or Boston butt for this recipe.
6 slices of thick-cut baconLook for smoked or cured bacon for added flavor. You can also use regular bacon, but the smoked variety will give the dish a more complex flavor profile.
1 large onion, choppedUse a sweet onion such as Vidalia or Maui for the best flavor. You can also use yellow or white onions, but they may not be as sweet.
2 cloves of garlic, mincedUse fresh garlic for the best flavor. You can also use jarred garlic, but it may not be as potent.
1 cup (250g) sauerkraut, drained and rinsedChoose a tangy and slightly sour sauerkraut with a nice crunch to it. You can also use homemade sauerkraut if you have it on hand.
1 tsp (5g) caraway seedsCaraway seeds have a nutty, slightly bitter flavor that complements the pork and sauerkraut nicely. You can also use fennel seeds or dill seeds as a substitute.
1 tsp (5g) saltUse kosher salt or sea salt for the best flavor. You can also use table salt, but it may not be as flavorful.
1/2 tsp (2g) black pepperUse freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor. You can also use pre-ground pepper, but it may not be as potent.
2 tbsp (30g) olive oilUse a good-quality olive oil with a mild flavor. You can also use other oils such as avocado oil or grapeseed oil, but they may have a different flavor profile.
1 cup (250ml) chicken brothUse low-sodium chicken broth for the best flavor. You can also use homemade chicken broth or stock, but it may not be as convenient.

Ingredients for Skillet Pork And Sauerkraut

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or Dutch ovenSharp chef's knifeCutting boardInstant-read thermometerTongs or spatulaWooden spoon

How to Make Skillet Pork And Sauerkraut

1
Preheat the skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the olive oil and swirl it around to coat the bottom of the pan.
2
Add the chopped onion to the pan and cook until it's translucent and starting to caramelize, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
3
Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4
Add the sliced bacon to the pan and cook until it's crispy and golden brown, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the bacon from the pan with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
5
Add the pork shoulder to the pan and cook until it's browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the pork from the pan and set it aside with the bacon.
6
Add the sauerkraut to the pan and cook until it's heated through and starting to brown, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
7
Add the caraway seeds, salt, and pepper to the pan and stir to combine. Cook for another minute to allow the spices to bloom.
8
Add the chicken broth to the pan and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the liquid has reduced by half, about 10-15 minutes.
9
Return the pork shoulder to the pan and spoon some of the sauerkraut mixture over the top. Cover the pan with a lid and transfer it to the oven.
10
Bake the pork in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 2-3 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Remove the pan from the oven and let the pork rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
11
Slice the pork against the grain and serve it with the sauerkraut mixture spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.

Expert Tips

Use a good-quality pork shoulder with a nice layer of fat for added flavor and tenderness.
Don't overcook the pork, as it can become dry and tough. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Let the pork rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to stay tender.
Use a variety of spices and seasonings to add depth and complexity to the dish. Caraway seeds, salt, and pepper are a good starting point, but feel free to experiment with other spices and herbs.
Don't be afraid to get creative with the recipe and add your own favorite ingredients. Some ideas include diced apples, chopped onions, or grated cheese.
Use a heavy skillet or Dutch oven to cook the pork and sauerkraut, as it will help to distribute the heat evenly and prevent burning.
Cook the bacon until it's crispy and golden brown, as it will add a nice texture and flavor to the dish.
Use low-sodium chicken broth to add moisture and flavor to the dish without overpowering the other ingredients.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the pork, which can make it dry and tough.
Not letting the pork rest before slicing, which can cause the juices to run out and the meat to become tough.
Not using a good-quality pork shoulder with a nice layer of fat, which can result in a less flavorful and tender dish.
Not cooking the bacon until it's crispy and golden brown, which can make it chewy and unappetizing.
Not using a variety of spices and seasonings, which can result in a bland and uninteresting dish.
Not cooking the sauerkraut until it's heated through and starting to brown, which can make it taste raw and unappetizing.

Variations and Substitutions

Add diced apples or onions to the pan with the sauerkraut for added flavor and texture.
Use grated cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan, to add a creamy and rich element to the dish.
Add some chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, to the pan with the sauerkraut for added flavor and freshness.
Use different types of pork, such as pork butt or Boston butt, for a slightly different flavor and texture.
Add some diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the pan with the sauerkraut for added flavor and nutrition.
Use a variety of spices and seasonings, such as paprika or garlic powder, to add depth and complexity to the dish.
Serve the pork and sauerkraut with some crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a hearty and satisfying meal.

What to Serve With Skillet Pork And Sauerkraut

Serve the pork and sauerkraut with some crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a hearty and satisfying meal. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots, for added nutrition and flavor.

Some other ideas for serving the pork and sauerkraut include serving it with a fried egg on top, or using it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. You can also serve it with a side of sautéed spinach or kale for added flavor and nutrition.

Serve with crusty breadServe over mashed potatoesServe with a side of roasted vegetablesUse as a filling for sandwiches or wrapsServe with a fried egg on topServe with a side of sautéed spinach or kale

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

The pork and sauerkraut can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw the frozen pork and sauerkraut overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop until it's heated through.

To freeze the pork and sauerkraut, simply place it in airtight containers or freezer bags and label them with the date and contents. You can also freeze individual portions of the pork and sauerkraut for easy reheating and serving.

When reheating the pork and sauerkraut, be sure to heat it until it's steaming hot and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can reheat it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or on the stovetop over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of pork is best for this recipe?

A good-quality pork shoulder with a nice layer of fat is best for this recipe. You can also use pork butt or Boston butt for a slightly different flavor and texture.

How long does it take to cook the pork?

The pork should be cooked until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C), which can take about 2-3 hours in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C).

Can I use different types of sauerkraut?

Yes, you can use different types of sauerkraut, such as spicy or flavored sauerkraut, to add a unique twist to the dish.

How do I store the pork and sauerkraut?

Can I serve the pork and sauerkraut with other sides?

Yes, you can serve the pork and sauerkraut with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread. Get creative and experiment with different combinations to find your favorite!

Is this recipe suitable for a special occasion?

Yes, this recipe is perfect for a special occasion, such as a holiday dinner or a birthday party. The pork and sauerkraut are a hearty and satisfying meal that's sure to impress your guests.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it when you're ready to serve. Simply cook the pork and sauerkraut, then let it cool and refrigerate or freeze it until you're ready to reheat and serve.

Is this recipe easy to make?

Yes, this recipe is easy to make and requires minimal preparation time. Simply cook the pork and sauerkraut, then serve and enjoy!

The Full Recipe

Recipe Card