15 Pork Recipes That Will Make You Fall in Love with Pork Again

Calling all pork lovers! If you’re looking for delicious and mouthwatering pork recipes to tantalize your taste buds, you’ve come to the right place. From succulent pork chops and juicy pork tenderloin to flavorful pulled pork and crispy bacon dishes, this collection of pork recipes has something for everyone.

Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a beginner in the kitchen, these easy-to-follow pork recipes will guide you through creating amazing meals that are sure to impress. We’ve got you covered with classic favorites like slow-roasted pork shoulder and pork carnitas, as well as unique and creative pork dish ideas to spice things up.

Pork is a versatile and affordable meat that can be prepared in countless ways, making it a fantastic choice for weeknight dinners, weekend feasts, or any occasion. These pork recipes showcase the best ways to cook pork, from grilling and roasting to braising and slow-cooking, unlocking all the flavors and tenderness this beloved protein has to offer.

So, let’s get cooking! Explore our mouthwatering pork recipes and discover new family favorites that are sure to have everyone asking for seconds (and thirds!). Bon appétit!

1. Honey Garlic Glazed Pork Chops

This classic dish features tender pork chops coated in a sticky-sweet glaze made with honey, garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of ginger. It’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 pork chops
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add pork chops and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until browned.
4. Remove chops from skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
6. Stir in honey and soy sauce, bringing to a simmer.
7. Return pork chops to the skillet, coating them in the glaze.
8. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, letting the glaze thicken and caramelize.

Serve with: Steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.

Drink with: A crisp apple cider or a light white wine like Pinot Grigio.

2. Carnitas

Carnitas are shredded pork tacos traditionally cooked in lard or oil. This recipe uses a more accessible method, slow cooking the pork in a flavorful broth until it’s tender and juicy. Serve with your favorite taco toppings like salsa, cilantro, and onions.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs pork shoulder
• 1 onion, quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 bay leaves

Instructions:

1. Cut pork shoulder into large chunks and season with salt and pepper.
2. Place pork, onion, garlic, orange juice, lime juice, oregano, cumin, and bay leaves in a slow cooker.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds.
4. Remove pork and shred using two forks.
5. Spread shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 5-10 minutes until crispy.

Serve with: Warm tortillas, avocado slices, and fresh salsa.

Drink with: A cold Mexican beer or a margarita.

3. Pork Tenderloin with Apples and Onions

This dish marries the tender, juicy pork tenderloin with the sweetness of apples and the savory goodness of caramelized onions. It’s an elegant yet simple meal that brings together the perfect balance of flavors, ideal for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pork tenderloin
• 2 apples, sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup apple cider
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season pork tenderloin with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the pork on all sides.
4. Remove pork from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add apples and onions and cook until softened.
6. Stir in apple cider, mustard, and thyme.
7. Return pork to the skillet and transfer to the oven.
8. Roast for 20-25 minutes until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Serve with: Mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables.

Drink with: A medium-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or a spiced apple cider.

4. Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Pulled pork is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on sandwiches, tacos, or even nachos. This recipe involves slow cooking pork shoulder until it’s fall-off-the-bone tender, then shredding it and tossing it in a tangy barbecue sauce.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs pork shoulder
• 1 onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Soft sandwich buns

Instructions:

1. Season pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. Place pork, onion, and garlic in a slow cooker.
3. Pour barbecue sauce and apple cider vinegar over the pork.
4. Cook on low for 8 hours until the pork is tender and easily shreds.
5. Shred the pork using two forks and mix with the sauce.
6. Serve on soft sandwich buns.

Serve with: Coleslaw or potato chips.

Drink with: A cold beer or a refreshing iced tea.

5. Pork Schnitzel

Pork schnitzel is a classic German dish featuring thinly pounded pork cutlets that are breaded and fried to golden, crispy perfection. Each bite is a delightful mix of crunchy exterior and tender, juicy interior. It’s a satisfying dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 pork cutlets
• 1 cup flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Pound pork cutlets to 1/4 inch thickness.
2. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Dredge cutlets in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
4. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry cutlets for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through.

Serve with: German potato salad or a fresh cucumber salad.

Drink with: A light German beer or a crisp white wine like Riesling.

6. Pork Stir-Fry

Pork stir-fry is a quick and delicious meal that combines tender strips of pork with a colorful medley of fresh vegetables, all tossed in a savory sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying, bringing vibrant flavors and a delightful crunch to your table.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb pork loin, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions:

1. Marinate pork with soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and cornstarch for 10 minutes.
2. Heat oil in a wok or skillet over high heat.
3. Add pork and stir-fry until browned and cooked through.
4. Remove pork and set aside.
5. In the same wok, add bell pepper, carrot, and broccoli, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
6. Return pork to the wok, add green onions, and stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes.

Serve with: Steamed rice or noodles.

Drink with: Green tea or a light beer.

7. Pork Meatballs

Pork meatballs are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, making them a versatile addition to any meal. Whether you serve them with spaghetti, in a sub, or as an appetizer, these meatballs are sure to be a hit. They’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy!

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
3. Form mixture into meatballs and place on a baking sheet.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and cooked through.

Serve with: Spaghetti and marinara sauce or as an appetizer with dipping sauces.

Drink with: Red wine like Chianti or a refreshing lemonade.

8. Pork Pozole

Pork pozole is a hearty Mexican stew made with tender pork, hominy, and a rich, flavorful broth. It’s traditionally garnished with fresh ingredients like radishes, cabbage, and lime, adding a delightful crunch and brightness to each comforting bowl. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this dish is both satisfying and delicious.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs pork shoulder, cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• 1 tbsp oregano
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 cans hominy, drained
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Garnishes: sliced radishes, shredded cabbage, lime wedges, chopped cilantro

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add pork, cumin, oregano, and cook until pork is browned.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 hours until pork is tender.
5. Stir in hominy, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Simmer for an additional 30 minutes.

Serve with: Tortilla chips and a fresh green salad.

Drink with: A cold Mexican beer or horchata.

9. Al Pastor Tacos

Al Pastor Tacos are a beloved Mexican street food, featuring marinated pork that’s grilled to perfection and served on warm corn tortillas. The pork is typically marinated in a mixture of chili peppers, pineapple, and spices, giving it a unique sweet and spicy flavor that is simply irresistible.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs pork shoulder, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup pineapple juice
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tbsp cumin
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 1 tbsp oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pineapple slices
• Corn tortillas

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix pineapple juice, chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic, vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate pork in the mixture for at least 2 hours.
3. Grill or cook the pork in a skillet until browned and cooked through.
4. Grill pineapple slices until caramelized.
5. Serve pork on corn tortillas with grilled pineapple.

Serve with: Fresh salsa, diced onions, and cilantro.

Drink with: A cold Mexican beer or a margarita.

10. Pork Belly Burnt Ends

Pork belly burnt ends are bite-sized pieces of pork belly that are smoked, caramelized, and utterly delicious. These savory bites are perfect for a barbecue or as an appetizer, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs pork belly, cut into cubes
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat smoker or grill to 250°F (120°C).
2. Season pork belly cubes with salt and pepper.
3. Smoke pork belly for 2 hours.
4. Toss smoked pork with brown sugar, honey, barbecue sauce, and olive oil.
5. Return to smoker for another hour until caramelized and tender.

Serve with: Coleslaw or baked beans.

Drink with: A cold beer or a sweet iced tea.

11. Pork Green Chile Stew

Pork green chile stew is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender pork simmered in a spicy green chile sauce. This stew is hearty and warming, perfect for cold days or when you crave something with a little kick.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs pork shoulder, cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp cumin
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 lb green chiles, roasted and chopped
• 2 potatoes, diced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add pork and cook until browned.
3. Stir in cumin, chicken broth, green chiles, and potatoes.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Garnish with cilantro.

Serve with: Warm tortillas or crusty bread.

Drink with: A cold Mexican beer or a citrusy soda.

12. Instant Pot Pork Carnitas

Instant Pot Pork Carnitas are a game-changer for busy cooks. This recipe delivers the same flavorful, tender, and crispy carnitas you’d expect from hours of slow cooking, but in a fraction of the time. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or bowls, these carnitas are versatile and irresistibly delicious.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs pork shoulder, cut into chunks
• 1 onion, quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 bay leaves

Instructions:

1. Season pork with salt and pepper.
2. Place pork, onion, garlic, orange juice, lime juice, oregano, cumin, and bay leaves in the Instant Pot.
3. Set Instant Pot to high pressure for 35 minutes.
4. Allow natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release the remaining pressure.
5. Shred the pork with two forks.
6. Optional: Spread shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 5-10 minutes until crispy.

Serve with: Warm tortillas, avocado slices, and fresh salsa.

Drink with: A cold Mexican beer or a margarita.

13. Pork and Vegetable Dumplings

These savory dumplings are filled with ground pork and a mixture of vegetables. They can be steamed, boiled, or pan-fried.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 cup cabbage, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup carrots, grated
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• Dumpling wrappers
• Water for sealing
• Oil for frying (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix pork, cabbage, carrots, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
2. Place a small spoonful of filling in the center of each dumpling wrapper.
3. Moisten the edges with water, fold, and press to seal.
4. Steam dumplings for 8-10 minutes, or pan-fry until bottoms are golden and crispy.

Serve with: Soy sauce or a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a splash of sesame oil.

Drink with: Green tea or a light beer.

14. Pork Katsu Curry

Pork katsu curry is a Japanese dish featuring a breaded and fried pork cutlet served over a bed of rice with a savory curry sauce.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 pork cutlets
• 1 cup flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 4 cups water
• 1 package Japanese curry roux

Instructions:

1. Season pork cutlets with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with panko breadcrumbs.
3. Heat oil in a skillet and fry cutlets until golden and cooked through.
4. In a pot, sauté onion, carrots, and potatoes until softened.
5. Add water and bring to a boil.
6. Stir in curry roux and simmer until thickened.
7. Slice pork cutlets and serve over rice with curry sauce.

Serve with: Steamed rice and a side of pickled vegetables.

Drink with: Green tea or a Japanese beer.

15. Pork Ramen

Ramen is a Japanese noodle soup that can be customized with various toppings. This recipe features a flavorful pork broth, noodles, and tender slices of pork.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb pork belly
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 4 cups water
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp miso paste
• 4 packs ramen noodles
• 4 eggs
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 cup baby spinach
• 1 sheet nori, cut into strips

Instructions:

1. In a pot, combine chicken broth, water, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and miso paste. Bring to a simmer.
2. Add pork belly and simmer for 1 hour until tender.
3. In a separate pot, cook ramen noodles according to package instructions.
4. Soft-boil eggs for 6 minutes, then peel and halve.
5. Slice pork belly.
6. Divide noodles into bowls, top with broth, pork belly, eggs, green onions, spinach, and nori.

Serve with: A side of gyoza or a simple cucumber salad.

Drink with: Green tea or sake.

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