Crockpot™ Pork and Kraut: A Hearty, Flavorful Comfort Meal

If you’re looking for a simple, delicious, and comforting meal that fills your kitchen with the aroma of savory pork and tangy sauerkraut, this Crockpot™ Pork and Kraut recipe is your answer. Perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends, this dish combines tender pork tenderloin, slightly sweet applesauce, and perfectly seasoned sauerkraut for a classic, slow-cooked comfort meal.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity and hands-off approach. Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully over several hours, producing a juicy, tender pork loin infused with the tangy, slightly sweet taste of kraut and apples. The addition of brown sugar and butter adds a subtle richness that balances the acidity of the sauerkraut, resulting in a dish that’s hearty enough to satisfy the whole family.

Whether served with a side of mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables, this recipe is versatile, approachable, and perfect for feeding a crowd.

Ingredients

To make 6–8 servings, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2–3 lbs. whole pork tenderloin – Choose a quality tenderloin for the most tender results.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – Freshly cracked for the best flavor.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Adjust according to taste.
• ⅓ cup applesauce – Adds natural sweetness to balance the tang of the sauerkraut.
• 32 oz Frank’s Kraut or SnowFloss Kraut, undrained – Provides the signature tangy flavor.
• ¼ cup brown sugar – Enhances the natural sweetness and complements the sauerkraut.
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted – Adds richness and depth to the dish.

Preparation Method

Follow these simple steps to prepare this flavorful, slow-cooked dish:

1. Prepare the pork
   Place the whole pork tenderloin in the base of your crockpot. Sprinkle the pork evenly with salt and black pepper to season it thoroughly.
2. Add the sweet component
   Spread the applesauce (or diced apples if preferred) evenly over the top of the pork tenderloin. This step ensures the pork stays moist and develops a subtle sweetness during cooking.
3. Layer the sauerkraut
   Pour the undrained sauerkraut over the applesauce-covered pork. Be sure to include the liquid from the sauerkraut, as it will help keep the pork tender and infuse the meat with flavor.
4. Add brown sugar and butter
   Evenly sprinkle the brown sugar over the sauerkraut layer. Drizzle the melted butter on top for added richness and to help blend the flavors as the pork cooks.
5. Cook the pork
   Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for about 8 hours. The pork is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C). Slow cooking ensures the pork becomes exceptionally tender and infused with the flavors of the kraut, apples, and butter.
6. Final touch
   Before serving, gently stir the sauerkraut around to distribute the flavors. Slice the pork tenderloin and serve alongside the sauerkraut. This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

• Choose quality ingredients: High-quality pork and fresh sauerkraut will make a significant difference in flavor.
• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the brown sugar slightly.
• Cook time flexibility: While 8 hours on low is ideal, you can cook on high for 4–5 hours, but check the internal temperature to ensure doneness.
• Make ahead: This dish is excellent for meal prep. You can assemble it in the crockpot insert the night before and refrigerate overnight. Cook as usual the next day.
• Serving suggestions: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, or a side of crusty bread to soak up the juices.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pork loin instead of pork tenderloin?
Yes, pork loin works as an alternative, but it’s leaner than tenderloin and may require slightly less cooking time to prevent drying out. Consider adding a little extra applesauce or butter to maintain moisture.

2. Can I make this dish in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! Use the sauté function to brown the pork briefly, then layer the remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for 50–60 minutes. Allow natural pressure release for best results.

3. What if I don’t have applesauce?
You can use diced apples or pear puree. Both will add sweetness and help keep the pork moist.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan or microwave, adding a little water if the sauerkraut has thickened too much.

5. Can this recipe be frozen?
Yes. Allow the cooked dish to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

6. Can I adjust the tanginess of the sauerkraut?
Yes, if you prefer a milder flavor, rinse the sauerkraut briefly under cold water before adding it to the crockpot. This will reduce the acidity slightly.

Conclusion

This Crockpot™ Pork and Kraut recipe is the epitome of comfort food—simple, flavorful, and hands-off. By combining tender pork with tangy sauerkraut, sweet applesauce, and a touch of brown sugar and butter, you create a dish that’s both hearty and delicious. Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or slow-cooked meal prep, this recipe delivers a classic taste that everyone will love.

With just a few pantry staples and a slow cooker, you can enjoy a melt-in-your-mouth pork tenderloin infused with rich, savory, and slightly sweet flavors. The result is a dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and is sure to become a go-to recipe for cozy dinners all year long.

Servings: 6–8 | Prep Time: 0 hours | Cook Time: 8 hours | Total Time: 8 hours

Print