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## **How to Make Pork Chop and Sauerkraut Casserole**
### **Step 1: Brown the Pork Chops**
1. Preheat your **oven to 375°F (190°C)**.
2. In a **large skillet**, heat **olive oil** over medium-high heat.
3. Season the **pork chops** with **salt, pepper, and paprika**. Brown them in the skillet for about **3-4 minutes per side** until they have a nice golden crust. They don’t need to be fully cooked at this stage. Remove from the pan and set aside.
### **Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Base**
4. In the same skillet, add **onions and garlic** and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
5. Stir in the **sauerkraut**, **cream of mushroom soup**, **sour cream**, **caraway seeds**, and **thyme**. Mix well until everything is combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper, if necessary.
### **Step 3: Assemble the Casserole**
6. Spread the **sauerkraut mixture** evenly in a **greased 9×13-inch casserole dish**.
7. Place the browned **pork chops** on top of the sauerkraut mixture, nestling them in slightly.
8. If using cheese, sprinkle the **shredded cheese** over the top of the pork chops.
### **Step 4: Bake**
9. Cover the casserole with **aluminum foil** and bake in the preheated oven for **45 minutes**.
10. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional **10-15 minutes** to allow the pork to cook through and the cheese to melt, if using.
### **Step 5: Serve**
11. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Plate the pork chops with the sauerkraut mixture and enjoy!
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## **Serving Suggestions**
🍚 **Serve with Mashed Potatoes** – The creamy mashed potatoes pair perfectly with the sauerkraut sauce.
🥖 **Crusty Bread** – Ideal for dipping into the rich sauce.
🥗 **Side Salad** – A light green salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the dish.
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## **Tips & Variations**
🌱 **Add Vegetables** – Carrots, potatoes, or apples can be added to the casserole for extra flavor and texture.
🔥 **Spicy Kick** – Add a pinch of **red pepper flakes** or a **splash of hot sauce** for a spicy twist.
🧀 **Cheese Options** – Try different cheeses, like **Swiss** or **cheddar**, to complement the dish.
🐖 **Use Pork Tenderloin** – If you prefer leaner cuts, substitute the pork chops with pork tenderloin.
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## **Final Thoughts**
This **Pork Chop and Sauerkraut Casserole** is a **perfectly balanced dish** of savory, tangy, and creamy flavors, all brought together in a **hearty one-pan meal**. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
**What’s your favorite twist on this classic dish? Let me know in the comments! 🥘🍽️😊**
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