Description
Roasted Pork Tenderloin with Sauerkraut is a simple, flavorful dinner dish that combines tender, juicy pork with tangy sauerkraut and sweet onions. This gluten-free and dairy-free recipe requires minimal hands-on time and uses an oven-safe skillet to brown and roast the pork to perfection. Served sliced alongside sauerkraut and onions, it’s perfect for a quick family dinner or any occasion needing a wholesome meal.
Ingredients
Pork Tenderloin
- 1 pork tenderloin (about 1 pound)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 Tablespoons canola oil or another neutral-flavored cooking oil, divided
Sauerkraut Mixture
- 1 medium yellow onion, sliced thin
- ¼ teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
- 1 pound sauerkraut, drained but not squeezed dry
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Move an oven rack to the middle position and heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even roasting of the pork tenderloin.
- Prepare Pork: Pat the pork tenderloin dry with a clean paper towel. Season evenly on all sides with ½ teaspoon kosher salt and ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper to enhance the natural flavor of the pork.
- Brown Pork: Heat 1 tablespoon of canola oil over medium-high heat in a large oven-safe skillet or sauté pan. Add the pork tenderloin and brown evenly on all sides to develop a flavorful crust. Once browned, reduce heat to medium and remove pork to a large plate.
- Cook Onions and Sauerkraut: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of canola oil, sliced onion, and ¼ teaspoon caraway seeds (if using). Cook onions until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the drained sauerkraut, stir and cook for another 1-2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the pan to incorporate those flavors.
- Roast Pork: Nestle the pork tenderloin back into the sauerkraut mixture in the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Roast for about 30 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the pork reads 145°F (63°C), indicating the pork is comfortably cooked but still juicy.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the pork tenderloin from the oven and transfer to a cutting board. Tent loosely with foil and let rest for 5-10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Slice the tenderloin about ¾ inch (2cm) thick and serve with the sauerkraut and onions alongside your choice of noodles, roasted potatoes, spaetzle, or dinner rolls for a complete meal.
Notes
- The caraway seeds are optional but add a traditional flavor that complements the sauerkraut.
- Make sure not to squeeze the sauerkraut dry so that it retains moisture during roasting.
- Using an instant-read thermometer is key to avoid overcooking the pork.
- Resting the meat after roasting helps keep it tender and juicy.
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
- Serving ideas include classic sides like noodles, roasted potatoes, spaetzle, or crusty dinner rolls.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Entree
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Universal