Pork roast and sauerkraut is a classic comfort food dish that is often served around holidays like New Year’s for good luck But figuring out what sides to serve alongside the rich, meaty pork roast and tangy sauerkraut can be tricky You want the sides to complement the flavors of the main dish rather than compete with them.
In this article I’ll share 21 delicious side dish ideas to serve with pork roast and sauerkraut. From creamy mashed potatoes to sweet applesauce, these sides will perfectly round out your holiday meal.
Classic Starchy Sides
Buttery Mashed Potatoes
You can’t go wrong with a side of fluffy, buttery mashed potatoes The creaminess pairs perfectly with the acidic sauerkraut and juicy pork roast For extra richness, stir in sour cream, cream cheese, or garlic. Top with crispy fried shallots for texture.
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
For another potato option, make cheesy scalloped potatoes. Sliced potatoes are layered with cream, garlic, and shredded cheese like cheddar or gruyere then baked until tender and golden brown. The creamy cheese sauce soaks into the potatoes for a decadent side dish.
Soft Dinner Rolls
Fresh from the oven dinner rolls can help sop up the delicious juices from the pork roast. Look for recipes that use butter and milk to make them extra soft and fluffy. Brush the tops with garlic butter or sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
Buttery Egg Noodles
Tossed in butter, these egg noodles make a quick and easy starchy side. The buttery noodles complement the richness of the pork roast. For extra flavor, stir in some chopped parsley or dill.
Polenta
Creamy, buttery polenta is a nice change of pace from potatoes or noodles. The cornmeal-based porridge has a sweet, nutty flavor that pairs well with the saltiness of the pork and sauerkraut. Top with cheese or marinara sauce.
Sweet and Tangy Sides
Applesauce
Tart, sweet applesauce is a classic accompaniment for rich pork dishes. The sweet puree provides contrast to the saltiness of the pork and acidity of the sauerkraut. Make your own chunky applesauce with just a few ingredients.
Cranberry Sauce
Another popular fruity option is tangy cranberry sauce. The bright, tart cranberries cut through the fattiness of the pork roast. Homemade cranberry sauce is easy to make from fresh or frozen cranberries.
Fried Apples
For another apple dish, make some fried apples. Slices of apple are cooked with butter, cinnamon, and sugar until caramelized and tender. It’s an easy way to transform humble apples into a special side.
Pear Sauce
Similar to applesauce, sweet pear sauce makes a nice counterpoint to the hearty sauerkraut and pork roast. Puree ripe pears with sugar and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger. The natural sweetness of pears shines through.
Banana Chips
Crispy, caramelized banana chips offer crunch and natural sweetness. Saute sliced bananas in butter with brown sugar and cinnamon until browned and dehydrated. The banana chips add sweetness and texture contrast.
Savory Vegetable Sides
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts roasted until deeply caramelized make a delicious vegetable side. Toss halved sprouts in olive oil, balsamic, garlic, salt, and pepper then roast at high heat. They become sweet, with a slightly charred exterior.
Glazed Carrots
For a pop of orange, make some glazed carrots. Boil carrots until tender then toss them in a butter-brown sugar glaze spiced with ginger and orange juice. As the glaze reduces it coats the carrots in a glossy, sweet sauce.
Roasted Baby Potatoes
Crispy roasted baby potatoes are easy to make but taste gourmet. Toss cubed potatoes with oil, garlic, rosemary, and salt then roast in a hot oven until browned and fork-tender. Sprinkle with extra rosemary and salt before serving.
Creamed Spinach
Earthy creamed spinach makes a nice complement to the pork and sauerkraut. Cook spinach in a bit of butter then toss it with cream, Parmesan, nutmeg, and seasoning for a rich, flavorful side.
Corn on the Cob
If you can find fresh sweet corn, boil up a few ears to serve on the side. The sweetness of the corn balances the acidity of the sauerkraut. Slather the hot corn in butter then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Green Beans Almondine
Blanched green beans are tossed in browned butter with slivered almonds and lemon juice for a classic French side. The nutty crunch of the almonds pairs nicely with the flavors of the pork roast meal.
Fun Extras and Appetizers
Corn Cob Jelly
For something unique, make corn cob jelly. The sweet jelly is often served with pork dishes. To make it, boil corn cobs in water then strain to get the flavorful corn stock. Cook with sugar and pectin to set into a beautifully golden jelly.
Bacon and Blue Cheese Wedge Salad
A cool, creamy blue cheese wedge salad makes a nice light starter before the heavy main course. Top crisp iceberg lettuce wedges with crumbled bacon, blue cheese dressing, tomatoes, and scallions.
Cheese and Charcuterie Board
An assortment of cheeses, cured meats, mustards, nuts, and fruit makes for an elegant appetizer spread. Provide an array of knives and crackers for spreading.
Deviled Eggs
Rich, protein-packed deviled eggs can be prepared ahead of time. Simply mix the egg yolks with mayo, mustard, salt, and pepper then pipe the filling back into the whites. Garnish with paprika and chives.
Bacon Onion Dip
For a retro appetizer, make this bacon onion dip with sour cream, caramelized onions, bacon, lemon juice, and seasonings. Serve with potato chips or pretzels for scooping.
Hot Bacon Dressing
Traditionally served atop salad greens, this warm bacon dressing also makes a unique sauce for pork roast and sauerkraut. Render bacon drippings then whisk together with vinegar, sugar, and seasonings for a sweet-tangy topping.
With so many amazing sides to choose from, you can serve a different one each time you make pork roast and sauerkraut without getting bored. Applesauce, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce are classic pairings. Or branch out with glazed carrots, deviled eggs, or corn cob jelly. No matter which sides you pick, your holiday meal will be delicious!
PA Dutch Pork and Sauerkraut in Jo Ellen’s Kitchen
FAQ
What vegetables go well with sauerkraut for dinner?
What to serve with pork & sauerkraut?
Looking for a quick answer? The best side dishes to serve with pork and sauerkraut are applesauce, pumpkin puree, Brussels sprouts, polenta, fried apples, caramelized onions, cranberry sauce, ravioli, banana chips, pear sauce, corn cob jelly, hot bacon dressing, garlic butter rolls, and bread dumplings.
What are the benefits of using Sauerkraut?
There are many health benefits to fermented foods and sauerkraut is one of those foods. The first key benefit is that it helps with digestion. It has also been shown to boost the immune system and improve heart health. It also is full of antioxidants which can help fight aging and can reduce inflammation.
How do you cook a pork roast with sauerkraut?
To the pan add the sauerkraut, caraway seeds, onions, and apples. Add in the seared pork roast, cover with the lid or foil (tightly), and pop it into the oven. To add water or not? If you drain your sauerkraut, then you will need to replace the liquid by adding some water.
Are mashed potatoes good for pork & sauerkraut?
Fluffy mashed potatoes are a classic side for pork and sauerkraut. The creamy texture will soak up all the juices from the pork, as well as helping to mellow out the strong briny flavor of the sauerkraut. Another great thing about mash is how versatile it is. They’re super tasty with just lots of butter, like in these French mashed potatoes .