Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy.

Remove bacon from the skillet and set aside.

Add chopped onion and red pepper (if using) to the bacon grease in the skillet.

Sauté the onion and red pepper until softened.

In a bowl, mix together the drained and squeezed sauerkraut, brown sugar, sautéed onion and red pepper mixture, and cooked bacon.

Transfer the mixture to a moderate oven or continue cooking on the stovetop.

Cook for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the flavors have melded and the sauerkraut is tender.

The finished dish can be stored for up to 6 weeks or longer.