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    Instant Pot Pork and Sauerkraut

    Easy Pork Recipes Instant Pot Instant Pot Pork Recipes Low Carb Real Food December 30, 2019 | By Kristen Chidsey | 193 Comments | *This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy.

    Jump to Recipe
    Instant Pot Pork and Sauerkraut is one of the easiest recipes to make! With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe will deliver a pork roast that is cooked to tender perfection in a perfectly balanced sweet and tangy sauerkraut and apple mixture. This Instant Pot Pork Loin recipe is perfect for New Years or for a hearty, comforting family meal.

    Instant Pot Pork and Sauerkraut is one of the easiest recipes to make! With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe will deliver a pork roast that is cooked to tender perfection in a perfectly balanced sweet and tangy sauerkraut and apple mixture. 

    Serve this pressure cooker pork and sauerkraut with Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes and Instant Pot Steamed Green Beans for an easy family meal.

    Shredded Pork loin topped with sauerkraut on blue plate

    Why You Will Love This Recipe

    • Instead of the traditional Slow Cooker Pork and Sauerkraut, which takes hours to braise, the instant pot gets the same dish with the same flavors on the table in a fraction of the time.
    • This is not just any recipe for pork and sauerkraut--this is the BEST recipe for Instant Pot Pork and Sauerkraut. This pork roast is cooked with sauerkraut, which tenderizes the meat and gives it a tangy flavor. But I also add apple juice and fresh apples to balance out the sourness of the sauerkraut. The pork is tender, flavorful, and absolutely incredible.
    • The process for making Instant Pot Pork and Sauerkraut is EASIER than the traditional method. For my slow cooker pork and sauerkraut recipe, I season the pork and sear the pork and then cook in the slow cooker. For this instant pot version, skip the step of searing the meat. The pork loin absorbs all the flavors as it cooks and gets perfectly tender and flavorful better if NOT seared.
    • Even if you THINK you don't like sauerkraut, this may be the recipe to change your mind. It adds dimension and a tangy bite to the pork, but thanks to the apple juice it is not overpowering at all. Even my picky kids enjoy this recipe!

    Notes on Ingredients

    • Pork Roast: I love using a pork loin for this recipe. It is lean, flavorful and because of the sauerkraut and the Instant Pot, it gets perfectly tender. Feel free to use a pork shoulder or pork roast, you will just need to add 5 minutes of cook time.
    • Sauerkraut: Fresh or canned sauerkraut can be used.
    • Apple Juice: Just like my recipe for Instant Pot Pulled Pork, apple juice is the secret to this recipe. It balances out the sauerkraut and apples and pork are a perfect culinary pair.
    • Apples: Use apples that hold up well to baking, like Granny Smith or Honey Crisp or Braeburn.

    Step-By-Step Instructions

    Step One: Prepare the Pork

    It is best to cut the pork into 2-4 inch large chunks, whether using pork loin or pork butt. This will help the pork cook evenly and tenderize.

    Instant Pot Pork Loin on cutting board seasoned with salt and pepper

    Step Two: Layer Ingredients

    Once the meat is cut into chunks, this recipe is as easy as putting everything into the Instant pot and pressure cooking.

    Pork and Sauerkraut in Instant Pot

    Step Three: Pressure Cook

    Be sure to set to cook on HIGH pressure. The cook time will remain the same regardless of how much pork you cook--it may just take LONGER to come to pressure.

    Step Four: Pressure Release

    It is very important to remember to let the pressure release naturally after cook time has elapsed. If you do a quick pressure release, your meat may seize up and become tough.

    Step Five: Serve

    Once the cooking time has elapsed and pressure is released, remove the pork from the Instant Pot. I prefer to shred the pork and then serve it with the cooking juices, but you can serve the pork in larger chunks if desired.

    Instant Pot Pork and sauerkraut is a great served with the cooking juices over mashed potatoes or if you are lucky enough to have two pressure cookers, make Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes.

    Shredded Pork and Sauerkraut over mashed potatoes on blue plate

    FAQs and Expert Tips

    • Do you have to drain the sauerkraut first? I do recommend you drain the sauerkraut before adding to your Instant Pot, as it is quite salty and sour but it is a personal preference.
    • No Apple Juice? A tip my mom taught me was to add in 1 to 2 tablespoons of brown sugar and use chicken stock if you don't have apple juice on hand. The flavor won't AS good, but the brown sugar helps to balance out the acidity of the sauerkraut.
    • Storage Instructions: Leftover pork can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and frozen for up to 3 months.

    More Instant Pot Pork Recipes

    • Instant Pot Pork Tacos--tangy, savory, and spiced to perfection. This meat is great on tacos, in burritos, or fajitas.
    • Instant Pot Pulled Pork--delicious, tangy, and fabulous for BBQ Pork Sandwiches.
    • Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin--Pork Tenderloin is cooked with sweet potatoes for a complete, easy, and healthy meal.
    • Instant Pot Pork Chops--made with a creamy mushroom sauce without canned soup.
    • Instant Pot Brats--If you enjoy pork with sauerkraut, you will love pork brats (or beef or turkey brats) made with sauerkraut!

    If you enjoyed this recipe Instant Pot Pork and Sauerkraut recipe, I would love for you to leave a comment and review below. 

    Pork and Sauerkraut served on mashed potatoes on blue plate

    Instant Pot Pork and Sauerkraut

    You won't believe how easy it is to make a juicy, tender Pork Loin in the Pressure Cooker. This Instant Pot Pork and Sauerkraut recipe knocks it out of the park!
    4.81 from 138 votes
    Print Pin Rate
    Course: Main Course
    Cuisine: German
    Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes
    Cook Time: 15 minutes minutes
    Pressure Time: 30 minutes minutes
    Total Time: 55 minutes minutes
    Servings: 8
    Calories: 194kcal
    Author: Kristen Chidsey

    Ingredients

    • 2-3 pounds pork loin roast cut into 2-3 inch large chunks
    • salt and pepper
    • 16 ounces sauerkraut drained of extra liquid
    • 1 cup apple juice or chicken stock
    • 1 apple sliced
    • 1 onion sliced
    • 1 tablespoon minced garlic optional
    Prevents your screen from going dark while preparing the recipe.

    Instructions

    • Cut pork roast into large 2-3 inch chunks. Liberally season pork loin with salt and pepper on all sides. 
    • Place pork pieces in the instant pot and pour in apple juice. Add apples, onions, and garlic to pressure cooker. Top with sauerkraut.
    • Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Hit Cook Time/Pressure Cook and use the +/- buttons to adjust to 15.
    • Once cook time has elapsed allow pressure to release naturally, or for at least 15 minutes. 
    • Serve pork with juices over noodles or mashed potatoes if desired.

    Equipment Needed

    • Electric Pressure Cooker (6 or 8 quart)

    Notes

    • Use chicken stock in place of apple juice if desired. If using stock, you may want to add 1-2 tablespoons brown sugar to balance the flavors. 
    • Garlic is optional. It is not traditional, but I love the added flavor. 
    • Feel free to use a pork shoulder or pork butt roast. You will need to cut the pork roast up into 2-3 inch chunks as well, but increase the cook time to 20 minutes. 

    Nutrition

    Calories: 194kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 71mg | Sodium: 433mg | Potassium: 596mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 22IU | Vitamin C: 11mg | Calcium: 31mg | Iron: 2mg
    Liked this Recipe? Tag me Today!Snap a picture and tag #amindfullmom on Instagram - I would love to see!

    « Easy Homemade Beef Stroganoff
    Easy Baked Sauerkraut Balls »

    About Kristen Chidsey

    Hi, I am Kristen, creator of A Mind "Full" Mom. I believe that making a wholesome family meal does not need to be hard or expensive! I love nothing more than to share with you delicious solutions for your hungry family.

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    1. Samantha

      January 02, 2023 at 6:10 pm

      5 stars
      This recipe is spot on! I made it just as it says for our New Year’s dinner, only added a little rosemary. My family loved it, even those who claim not to like pork! It was easy to make and so delicious - the meat was so tender. I served it with mashed potatoes. It did take more like 25 minutes to vent, but was still quick and easy pork roast!

      Reply
      • Kristen Chidsey

        January 02, 2023 at 6:29 pm

        Thanks for sharing, Samantha. I love hearing you and your family (pork and non-pork eaters) enjoyed!

        Reply
    2. Doug

      January 01, 2023 at 2:57 pm

      5 stars
      I’ve been a big fan of your crockpot recipe, so when I saw the link to the same recipe in the Instant Pot, I thought I’d try it on New Year’s. Wow! Same great flavor with even less effort!
      Bye, bye crockpot!

      Reply
      • Kristen Chidsey

        January 01, 2023 at 6:14 pm

        So happy you enjoyed this version of a favorite. Happy New Year!

        Reply
        • Jamie

          January 02, 2023 at 4:07 pm

          What if I don't have apples?

          Reply
          • Kristen Chidsey

            January 02, 2023 at 4:35 pm

            Hi Jamie! I would suggest using a bit (no more than a couple of tablespoons) of brown sugar to help tame the tartness of the kraut. Enjoy!

            Reply
            • Jamie

              January 02, 2023 at 5:22 pm

              Thank you!!

    3. Johnathan Matteo

      January 01, 2023 at 1:12 pm

      5 stars
      Probably one of the best pork and sauerkraut recipes I’ve ever had over the years whether in a Crockpot or InstaPot this recipe in particular is fantastic perfect sweet, sour balance. If you haven’t tried it yet you should!

      Reply
      • Kristen Chidsey

        January 01, 2023 at 6:15 pm

        So happy to hear you enjoyed! Thank you for leaving a review and Happy New Year!

        Reply
    4. Kate

      December 31, 2022 at 4:30 pm

      How about using pork tenderloin? Its a little over 2 pounds, i will chunk it but cooking time the same as pork roast?

      Reply
      • Kristen Chidsey

        December 31, 2022 at 4:36 pm

        Hi Kate! Pork Tenderloin cooks much faster and is more delicate and can overcook easily. I would leave it whole and cook it on high pressure for 5 minutes with a natural pressure release for well-done meat. You will want to cook for 3 minutes on high pressure for medium-doneness.

        Reply
    5. Joan

      December 31, 2022 at 1:59 pm

      I have a 7 lb. Shoulder. How long should I cook it? Should I double the other ingredients? Thanks!

      Reply
      • Kristen Chidsey

        December 31, 2022 at 3:44 pm

        Hi Joan! I would double the ingredients and thr cooking time will remain the same, as the pork has been cut into large chunks. Enjoy

        Reply
    6. Cathy

      December 28, 2022 at 7:55 am

      What is the serving size? I need to watch my sodium. So thanks for providing the nutritional information. I did not see the number of servings listed for the recipe. This sounds awesome. And something I have been craving. Thanks.

      Reply
      • Kristen Chidsey

        December 28, 2022 at 9:35 am

        Hi Cathy! This is for 8 servings. To help control the level of sodium, be sure to rinse your kraut well and reduce the added salt if desired. Enjoy!

        Reply
    7. Sonia

      October 18, 2022 at 7:56 am

      5 stars
      Very good recipe! Easy, fast, tasty! Winner

      Reply
    8. Gigi Geitgey

      September 23, 2022 at 7:24 pm

      I just read. this and decided to try it with 3/4 # of country-style ribs--boneless in the small IP 4 fit just right. I decided to use saute, but I didn't see the section to get all the browned parts/pieces off the bottom...hope they are okay! I used Kinder's Salt Pepper & Garlic seasoning blend & sprinkled in a Chinese 5 Spices Powder blend that has a tad of garlic in it. I used about 6 oz o apple juice about 1 1/2 c saurkraut and 2 small apples. sliced and 1/4 c shredded carrots I had on hand. I added 1 TB of brown sugar at the last minute it's pressure-cooking ow -at -15 min. Hope I did not mess this up by not getting the bottom o the pot cleared after browning.

      Reply
      • Kristen Chidsey

        September 24, 2022 at 8:49 am

        Hi Gigi! I hope everything turned out well for you. If you got a burn notice it would have been due to the fact you didn't scrape the bottom of the pan. Even if you didn't get the notice, I would try not to tempt it again 🙂

        Reply
    9. Douglas

      June 16, 2022 at 5:35 pm

      5 stars
      This is the first InstantPot recipe that has been successful for me, and boy was it good. I just used the pork and sauerkraut with the sauerkraut juice and added a little brown sugar. I did 20 minute cook time and let it naturally release for 20 minutes then quick released. The pork just fell apart. A great recipe!! Thank you!!

      Reply
      • Kristen Chidsey

        June 16, 2022 at 7:42 pm

        Hi Douglas! I am so happy to hear you enjoyed! I hope that you find many more recipes to enjoy here.

        Reply
    10. Matt

      February 12, 2022 at 2:20 pm

      Can you use a frozen pork roast (about 3 Lbs) and if so what would the timing be for cooking?

      Reply
      • Kristen Chidsey

        February 12, 2022 at 5:58 pm

        Yes! I would cook for 30 minutes per pound if frozen whole (so 90 minutes) Enjoy!

        Reply
      • Melanie Goforth

        January 01, 2023 at 4:00 pm

        Well , I just put everything in the pot , but I never saw anything that said to sear the pork first .
        I hope it comes out alright as this is our new years day dinner .

        Reply
        • Kristen Chidsey

          January 01, 2023 at 6:12 pm

          This recipe does not call for searing! It will be delicious! Enjoy and happy New Year!

          Reply
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    Instant Pot Pork and Sauerkraut is one of the easiest recipes to make! With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe will deliver a pork roast that is cooked to tender perfection in a perfectly balanced sweet and tangy sauerkraut and apple mixture. This Instant Pot Pork Loin recipe is perfect for New Years or for a hearty, comforting family meal.

    Meet a Mind "Full" Mom

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    Hi! I'm Kristen. I want to welcome you into my kitchen and my REAL, imperfect life. Let me share with you tips and tricks to help you make healthy eating a reality for your family in the chaos of life and on the constraints of a budget. Read more

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    Instant Pot Pork and Sauerkraut is one of the easiest recipes to make! With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe will deliver a pork roast that is cooked to tender perfection in a perfectly balanced sweet and tangy sauerkraut and apple mixture. This Instant Pot Pork Loin recipe is perfect for New Years or for a hearty, comforting family meal.

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