Pork Roast and Sauerkraut

This hearty, Old World-inspired dish combines tender, slow-roasted pork with tangy sauerkraut and smoky kielbasa for a meal that’s sure to warm you from the inside out. Don’t let the impressive results fool you—this pork roast and sauerkraut recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare.

With just 10 minutes of hands-on time and a handful of ingredients, you’ll create a show-stopping main course that tastes like it’s been simmering all day. The magic happens in your Dutch oven, where the pork slowly roasts to juicy perfection while absorbing the flavors of the sauerkraut and sausage

Ingredients for Pork Roast and Sauerkraut

• Spices: A blend of onion powder, garlic powder, celery seed and black pepper season the pork roast perfectly.
• Worcestershire sauce: A teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce adds depth and a unique umami flavor to the spice rub.
• Pork loin roast: Boneless rolled pork loin roast is the star of this dish and becomes tender and juicy when slow-roasted.
• Sauerkraut: Two cans of undrained sauerkraut provide tang and a characteristic fermented flavor that pairs perfectly with the pork.
• Sugar: An optional teaspoon of sugar can help balance the tanginess of the sauerkraut.
• Kielbasa or Polish sausage: Smoked sausage adds a smoky flavor to the pork roast and sauerkraut.

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the spice rub

Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a small bowl, combine the onion powder, garlic powder, crushed celery seed, Worcestershire sauce and pepper. Mix well to create a paste-like consistency.

Editor’s Tip: Crushing the celery seed helps release its oils, intensifying the flavor of your spice rub. Use the back of a spoon or a mortar and pestle to crush the seeds.

Step 2: Season the pork

Rub the spice mixture all over the pork loin roast, making sure to cover it evenly.

Step 3: Prepare the sauerkraut

In a separate bowl, combine the sauerkraut with sugar, if using.

Editor’s Tip: Adding a touch of sugar to the sauerkraut can balance its acidity and create a more rounded flavor profile to the final dish.

Step 4: Assemble in the Dutch oven and roast

Place the seasoned pork roast fat side up in a Dutch oven. Spoon the sauerkraut mixture around and over the roast. Scatter the kielbasa pieces over and around the pork and sauerkraut. Cover the Dutch oven and bake until a thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the pork reads 145°, about 2-1/4 to 2-3/4 hours.

Editor’s Tip: Avoid overcooking the pork roast or the juiciest pork roast. A meat thermometer will help check for doneness as cooking times can vary based on the size and shape of your roast.

Step 6: Rest and serve

Remove the pork roast from the oven and let it stand for about 15 minutes before slicing.

Recipe Variations

• Use a beer-braise: Add a cup of your favorite beer to the sauerkraut for extra flavor and moisture for a unique flavor twist. Here are the best types of beer to use when cooking.
• Add some vegetables: Add quartered red potatoes and sliced carrots around the pork roast for a complete one-pot dish.
• Amp up the spice: Add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick to this pork roast and sauerkraut.

How to Store Pork Roast and Sauerkraut

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the pork and sauerkraut in a baking dish and cover with foil. Warm in a 350° oven until heated through.

Can you freeze pork roast and sauerkraut?

Yes, you can freeze this dish. Wrap the cooled pork roast and sauerkraut tightly in plastic wrap then aluminum foil. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or zip top bag and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Pork Roast and Sauerkraut Tips

What are some variations of this pork roast with sauerkraut recipe?

You can easily customize this pork roast and sauerkraut recipe by adding a thinly sliced apple or onion to the sauerkraut mixture and before adding it around the roast. You can also swap out the celery seed in the rub with a ground seasoning such as coriander, cumin, mustard or cloves. Try adding a few dashes of caraway seed, too.

How else can you cook pork roast with sauerkraut?

Most home cooks rely on the oven to prepare pork roast but some sear the meat in a little oil or butter on the stovetop first. This locks in juices and gives the roast an impressive color before it cooks in the oven. It’s also easy to cook pork roast with sauerkraut in the slow cooker. Simmer up this Oktoberfest Pork Roast if you’re looking to set it and forget it.

What can you serve with pork roast with sauerkraut?

Homemade applesauce and caraway rye bread are great with pork roast with sauerkraut. A fresh green salad or steamed green beans can add freshness to your meal. Top it off with an easy gingerbread cake.

Can you use different types of sausage?

Yes, feel free to use your favorite type of sausage instead of kielbasa. Andouille, chorizo or even bratwurst can add unique flavors to this pork roast and sauerkraut dish.

How do you achieve a crispy crust on the pork roast?

To achieve a crispy crust, uncover the Dutch oven during the last 20 to 30 minutes of baking. This will allow the fat to render and create a nice golden-brown crust on the roast.