Savory Pork Chops En Casserole
Savory pork chops baked with sauerkraut, applesauce, and a flavorful tomato-onion mixture, creating a hearty dish perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute sliced onions in butter or margarine until tender.
- Add canned tomatoes, sugar, salt, pepper, oregano, and soft breadcrumbs to the onions and cook for a few minutes.
- Combine canned applesauce and horseradish; mix well.
- Mix the tomato-onion mixture, applesauce mixture, and drained sauerkraut in a bowl.
- Pour the sauerkraut mixture into a covered casserole dish.
- Saute the pork chops until they are golden brown on both sides.
- Lay the browned pork chops on top of the sauerkraut mixture.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper over the pork chops.
- Cover the casserole and bake at 375°F for 1 hour and 40 minutes, or until the pork chops are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using bone-in pork chops instead of boneless. You can substitute the sauerkraut with coleslaw mix for a milder taste, or use fresh apples if you prefer. If you're short on time, pre-sautéed onions can speed up the process. Adding a splash of apple cider vinegar can enhance the dish's overall tanginess.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this savory pork chop casserole with a side of steamed green beans or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Jean's Vegetable Soup for a comforting dinner experience. For a heartier option, consider serving it with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through, ensuring the pork chops maintain their moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Savory Pork Chops En Casserole contains roughly 1241 calories, with 26g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 111g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (83% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (67% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1108mg per serving (48% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! Just make sure to peel and chop them. You'll need about 4-5 medium tomatoes to replace the canned variety. Adjust the sugar and seasoning as fresh tomatoes can vary in sweetness.
How do I know when the pork chops are done?
The pork chops are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. The meat should also be tender and juicy, which can be tested with a fork.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Just assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).