Ground pork is a versatile ingredient that can make dinner prep easy and affordable. It’s perfect for creating tasty meals without breaking the bank.
You’ll find plenty of options to spice up your meal planning with ground pork recipes.
These 30 ground pork recipes offer a range of flavors and styles to suit different tastes and cooking skills. From quick stir-fries to hearty meatballs, there’s something for everyone.
You can explore new dishes or put a twist on old favorites using this budget-friendly meat option.
1. Spicy Pork Ragu
Spicy pork ragu is a flavorful pasta dish that’s easy to make. You start by cooking ground pork with onions, garlic, and spices.
Add crushed tomatoes and let the sauce simmer until it thickens. The key is to use red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
Serve your ragu over pasta like rigatoni or penne. You can also try it with orzo for a change. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
This recipe is great for weeknight dinners. You can make extra and freeze it for later use.
2. Pork and Cabbage Stir Fry
Pork and cabbage stir fry is a quick and tasty meal you can whip up in about 30 minutes. Start by heating oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add ground pork and cook until browned. Next, toss in sliced cabbage, carrots, and onions.
Stir-fry the veggies for a few minutes until they start to soften.
Mix up a simple sauce with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Pour it over the pork and vegetables, stirring to coat everything well.
Let it cook for a few more minutes until the cabbage is slightly wilted but still crunchy.
Serve your pork and cabbage stir fry hot over rice or noodles for a filling dinner.
3. Ground Pork Tacos
Ground pork tacos are a tasty and quick meal option. To make them, start by heating oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Next, add ground pork and increase the heat to medium-high. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. This takes about 10 minutes.
Stir in taco seasoning and salt to coat the meat. For extra flavor, add some tomato sauce and chicken broth. Let it simmer until the mixture thickens.
Warm your tortillas in a dry skillet or the oven. Fill them with the seasoned pork and your favorite toppings like cheese, lettuce, and salsa.
4. Thai Basil Pork
Thai Basil Pork is a tasty stir-fry dish that’s quick to make. You’ll need ground pork, Thai basil leaves, garlic, chilies, and a mix of sauces.
Start by crushing garlic and chilies. Heat oil in a pan and fry this mixture until it smells good.
Add the ground pork and cook until it’s no longer pink.
Next, pour in oyster sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, and a bit of sugar. These give the dish its rich flavor. Stir well to coat the pork.
Finally, toss in the Thai basil leaves. They’ll wilt quickly. If you can’t find Thai basil, regular basil works too. Serve hot with rice for a yummy meal.
5. Pork and Chive Dumplings
Pork and chive dumplings are a tasty Chinese dish you can make at home. Mix ground pork with chopped chives, garlic, and ginger in a bowl. Add salt, white pepper, soy sauce, and sesame oil for flavor.
Place a spoonful of filling in the center of a dumpling wrapper. Fold and pinch the edges to seal.
You can boil, steam, or pan-fry the dumplings.
Serve your pork and chive dumplings hot with a dipping sauce. Try mixing soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil for a spicy kick. These dumplings make a great appetizer or main dish.
6. Italian Wedding Soup
Italian Wedding Soup is a tasty dish that mixes meat and vegetables. You’ll love the small meatballs made from ground pork and beef. These float in a flavorful broth with pasta and leafy greens.
To make the soup, start by forming tiny meatballs. Cook them in a pan until they’re brown.
Then, in a big pot, cook onions, carrots, and celery until soft.
Add chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Drop in the meatballs and some small pasta.
Let it simmer until the pasta is cooked. Stir in some greens like spinach or escarole at the end.
This soup is perfect for cold days. It’s filling, but not too heavy. You can make a big batch and enjoy it all week long.
7. Ground Pork Lettuce Wraps
Ground pork lettuce wraps are a tasty and light meal option. You can make them in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Brown the ground pork in a skillet. Add veggies like carrots and water chestnuts for crunch.
Mix in a flavorful sauce with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of honey.
Spoon the pork mixture into crisp lettuce leaves. Bibb or butter lettuce work well as they form natural cups.
Top with chopped peanuts, green onions, or cilantro for extra flavor.
These wraps are versatile. You can adjust the spice level or swap ingredients based on what you have on hand. They’re great for family dinners or as party appetizers.
8. Pork and Apple Burgers
Pork and apple burgers are a tasty twist on classic burgers. They combine ground pork with grated apple for a juicy, flavorful patty.
To make these burgers, mix ground pork with grated apple, breadcrumbs, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and sage. Form the mixture into patties.
Cook the burgers in a frying pan with olive oil over medium-high heat. You can also grill them outdoors for a smoky flavor.
Serve your pork and apple burgers on buns with toppings like caramelized onions and white cheddar cheese. They pair well with a side of fries or a fresh salad.
9. Sweet and Sour Pork Meatballs
Sweet and sour pork meatballs are a tasty twist on classic meatballs. You mix ground pork with breadcrumbs, seasonings, and egg to form small balls.
Cook the meatballs in a skillet until golden brown. For the sauce, combine beef broth, vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and cornstarch.
Add pineapple chunks and bell peppers to the sauce for extra flavor and texture.
Pour the sauce over the cooked meatballs and let them simmer together.
These meatballs make a great appetizer or main dish. Serve them over rice or noodles for a filling meal. You can adjust the sweetness and sourness of the sauce to your liking.
10. Pork Bolognese
Pork bolognese offers a tasty twist on the classic pasta sauce. To make it, start by browning ground pork in a pan. Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
Next, add minced garlic, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for a few minutes before adding crushed tomatoes, herbs, and seasonings.
Let the sauce simmer for 45-60 minutes to develop rich flavors.
Serve your pork bolognese over pasta of your choice. Top with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
This hearty sauce works well with both fresh and dried pasta. You can also add bacon for a smoky touch or kale for extra nutrients.
11. Gyoza with Ground Pork
Gyoza are tasty Japanese dumplings filled with ground pork and veggies. To make them, mix pork with chopped cabbage, green onions, ginger, and seasonings.
Place a small amount of filling on each gyoza wrapper. Wet the edges and fold the wrapper in half, pinching to seal.
Cook the gyoza in a hot pan with oil until golden brown on the bottom. Add water and cover to steam for a few minutes.
Serve these crispy-bottomed, juicy dumplings with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili oil. Gyoza make a great appetizer or light meal.
12. Pork Fried Rice
Pork fried rice is a tasty and quick meal you can make at home. It’s often better than takeout and ready in just 15 minutes.
You’ll need leftover rice, ground pork, eggs, and frozen veggies.
Cook the pork first, then add vegetables and eggs. Finally, toss in the rice and seasonings.
For extra flavor, try using Cantonese-style BBQ pork. A mix of soy sauce, hoisin, honey, and sesame oil makes a great homemade sauce.
Cook everything fast and hot in a skillet or wok. Use vegetable oil or another oil with a high smoke point. This helps create the perfect texture.
13. Pork and Ginger Soup
Pork and ginger soup is a flavorful and comforting dish. You can make it easily with ground pork and a few simple ingredients.
Start by browning the ground pork in a large pot. Add chopped onions, garlic, and ginger to enhance the flavor.
Pour in chicken broth and water, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
Let the soup cook for about 5-8 minutes until the pork is tender.
You can add vegetables like mushrooms or bok choy for extra nutrition.
This warming soup is perfect for chilly days. It’s a great way to use ground pork in a light yet satisfying meal.
14. Pork Larb Salad
Pork larb salad is a tasty dish from Laos and Thailand. You make it with ground pork, fresh herbs, and a zesty dressing.
To start, cook the pork in a pan until it’s no longer pink. Drain any extra fat.
Mix in fish sauce, lime juice, and chili for flavor. Add chopped shallots, green onions, and mint leaves.
A key ingredient is toasted rice powder. It gives the dish a nutty taste and crunchy texture. Sprinkle it over the pork mixture before serving.
Serve your pork larb warm or at room temperature. It’s great with sticky rice or lettuce wraps.
15. Stuffed Bell Peppers with Pork
Stuffed bell peppers with pork make a tasty and filling meal. To make them, start by cutting the tops off bell peppers and removing the seeds.
For the filling, mix ground pork with cooked rice, diced onions, minced garlic, and chopped tomatoes. Add some herbs like rosemary for extra flavor.
Spoon the pork mixture into the peppers. Place them in a baking dish and sprinkle some cheese on top if you like.
Bake the stuffed peppers in a 375°F oven for about 35 minutes. The pork will be cooked through and the peppers will be tender.
You can try different pepper colors or even use other types of peppers you enjoy. This versatile dish is ready in about 30 minutes total.
16. Ginger Garlic Pork Sliders
Ginger garlic pork sliders offer a tasty twist on classic burgers. These mini sandwiches pack a flavorful punch with aromatic Asian-inspired ingredients.
Mix ground pork with minced fresh ginger, garlic, green onions, and cilantro. Add a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil for extra depth. Form small patties and cook them in a skillet or on the grill.
Serve the sliders on soft buns with toppings like pickled vegetables or Asian slaw. The combination of juicy pork and zesty ginger creates a delicious bite-sized treat.
These sliders work great as appetizers or a fun main dish. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding Sriracha or other hot sauces to suit your taste.
17. Pork Pad Thai
Pork Pad Thai is a tasty twist on the classic Thai dish. You’ll love this flavorful noodle stir-fry packed with tender pork strips.
Start by cooking rice noodles according to package directions. In a hot wok, fry garlic and pork until browned. Add bean sprouts, carrots, and cooked noodles.
Mix in a sauce made from fish sauce, soy sauce, and sugar. Toss everything together with green onions and crushed peanuts.
Top your Pork Pad Thai with cilantro and a squeeze of lime for extra freshness.
This quick and easy meal comes together in about 15 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a tasty dinner without much fuss.
18. Pork and Kimchi Stew
Pork and kimchi stew, also known as kimchi jjigae, is a tasty Korean dish. You’ll love the mix of spicy kimchi and tender pork belly.
To make it, use aged kimchi for the best flavor. Cut pork belly into bite-sized pieces and brown them first.
Add the kimchi, some broth, and let it simmer. Toss in some tofu near the end for extra texture.
This hearty stew is perfect for cold days. Serve it with a side of rice to soak up the flavorful broth.
19. Cajun Pork Pasta
Cajun pork pasta brings spicy Southern flair to your dinner table. You can make this hearty dish in about 30 minutes.
Start by cooking ground pork with Cajun seasoning. Add bell peppers and broccoli for color and crunch.
Create a creamy sauce using heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Toss the sauce with penne pasta and the seasoned pork mixture.
For extra flavor, sprinkle shredded cheddar on top before serving. This one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick and tasty.
20. Ground Pork Chili
Ground pork chili is a tasty twist on traditional beef chili. It’s easy to make and perfect for chilly days.
Start by browning ground pork in a large pot. Add chopped onions and garlic for extra flavor.
Stir in chili powder, oregano, and salt. Then add tomatoes and tomato sauce. Let it simmer for about an hour to develop rich flavors.
For a heartier meal, add beans near the end of cooking. Kidney or pinto beans work well.
Serve your pork chili hot with your favorite toppings. Cheese, sour cream, or green onions are great choices.
21. Pork Enchiladas
Pork enchiladas are a tasty twist on the classic Mexican dish. You can make them with ground pork for a quick and easy meal.
To start, brown the ground pork in a skillet with spices like cumin, chili powder, and oregano. This adds flavor to the meat.
Next, roll the seasoned pork in tortillas and place them in a baking dish. Pour enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with cheese.
Bake the enchiladas in a preheated 350°F oven until the cheese melts and bubbles. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes.
Serve your pork enchiladas hot, topped with sour cream, diced onions, or fresh cilantro if you like. They’re perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering with friends.
22. Savory Pork Pie
Savory pork pie is a hearty dish perfect for cold days. You’ll need ground pork, bacon, onions, garlic, and potatoes as key ingredients.
Start by cooking the bacon and ground pork in a skillet. Add chopped onions, minced garlic, and diced potatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Pour the mixture into a pie crust and cover with another layer of crust. Cut slits in the top to let steam escape.
Bake at 425°F for about 30 minutes until golden brown. Let the pie cool for 20 minutes before serving.
This filling meal goes great with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
23. Pork Lo Mein
Pork lo mein is a tasty Chinese noodle dish you can easily make at home.
Start by cooking your noodles according to package instructions.
In a large skillet, brown ground pork over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Toss in your favorite stir-fry veggies like carrots, cabbage, and bell peppers. Stir-fry until tender-crisp.
Mix in cooked noodles and a sauce made from soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of sugar.
Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
Serve your homemade pork lo mein hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
24. Pork and Vegetable Skewers
Pork and vegetable skewers are a tasty and easy meal option. You can make them on the grill or in the oven.
Cut pork shoulder or tenderloin into 1-inch cubes. Mix the pork with a marinade of olive oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic, lime juice, and spices.
Thread the marinated pork onto skewers, alternating with chunks of colorful vegetables and pineapple. Popular veggie choices include bell peppers, onions, and zucchini.
Cook the skewers for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally. The pork should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Let the skewers rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped scallions for extra flavor and color.
25. Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Stuffed zucchini boats are a tasty way to use ground pork.
Start by cutting zucchini in half lengthwise and scooping out the insides.
Cook ground pork with onions, garlic, and seasonings in a pan. Add some tomato sauce or paste for extra flavor.
Spoon the cooked pork mixture into the zucchini halves. Top with cheese if you like.
Bake the filled zucchini boats in a 400°F oven for about 20 minutes. The zucchini will be tender and the filling hot.
This dish is great for using up extra zucchini from your garden. You can easily change up the seasonings to suit your taste.
26. Pork Shepherd’s Pie
Pork shepherd’s pie is a comforting twist on the classic dish. You’ll love this hearty meal made with ground pork instead of lamb or beef.
Start by cooking ground pork with carrots and onions. Add some cabbage for extra flavor and nutrition. Season the mixture with salt and pepper.
For the topping, make creamy mashed potatoes with butter and cream. Spread the potatoes over the pork filling in a baking dish.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top for a delicious golden crust.
Bake the pie until it’s hot and bubbling, about 25-30 minutes. This easy recipe is perfect for using up leftover pork. It’s a tasty meal your whole family will enjoy.
27. Pork and Black Bean Tacos
Pork and black bean tacos are a tasty meal you can make easily.
Start by cooking ground pork in a skillet until it’s browned.
Add black beans, diced bell peppers, and onions to the pork. Stir in spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika for flavor.
Cook everything together until the veggies are soft. Warm up some tortillas while the filling cooks.
Fill your tortillas with the pork and bean mixture. Top with cheese, salsa, or sour cream if you like. These tacos are filling and full of protein.
28. Lemongrass Pork Bowl
This flavorful dish combines tender ground pork with aromatic lemongrass.
You’ll start by cooking the pork in a skillet with garlic, lemongrass, and onion.
Add some Hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and fish sauce for depth. A touch of brown sugar and Sriracha brings sweetness and heat.
Serve your fragrant pork over steamed rice or rice noodles. Top with fresh herbs, sliced cucumber, and crushed peanuts. A squeeze of lime brightens the bowl.
This quick and easy meal is perfect for busy weeknights. The bold flavors will transport you to Southeast Asia.
29. Pork and Tomato Soup
Pork and tomato soup is a tasty and simple meal you can make in about 30 minutes.
Start by cooking ground pork in a large pot until it’s browned.
Add onions, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until soft.
Pour in broth, diced tomatoes, and your choice of seasonings like paprika or red pepper flakes.
You can also add pasta or beans to make the soup heartier.
Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. The result is a warm, comforting soup perfect for chilly days. It’s packed with protein from the pork and lots of veggies for a balanced meal.
30. Pork Empanadas
Pork empanadas are tasty hand pies filled with savory ground pork. To make them, cook ground pork with spices like adobo and sofrito for extra flavor.
Mix in some tomato sauce to keep the filling moist. Let the pork cool before spooning it into empanada dough circles.
Fold the dough over and crimp the edges to seal in the filling.
Bake the empanadas until golden brown and flaky. For variety, try adding cheese to the pork filling. You can also use shredded pork instead of ground meat.
Serve pork empanadas as an appetizer or main dish. They make great party food or portable lunches.
Health Benefits of Ground Pork
Ground pork can be a nutritious addition to your diet when eaten in moderation. It provides protein, vitamins, and minerals that support your body’s functions.
Nutritional Value
Ground pork contains several important nutrients. It’s a good source of vitamin B12, which helps make red blood cells and keeps your nervous system working well.
You’ll also get zinc from ground pork, which supports your immune system. Selenium, another mineral found in pork, acts as an antioxidant in your body.
Ground pork provides iron, which helps carry oxygen in your blood. This can be helpful if you’re at risk for anemia. The meat also contains phosphorus, a mineral that works with calcium to build strong bones and teeth.
While ground pork has nutrients, it’s also high in fat. Choose leaner cuts when possible to reduce fat intake.
Protein Content
Ground pork is packed with protein. A 3-ounce serving gives you about 22 grams of protein. This makes it a filling food that can help you feel full for longer.
Protein is key for building and repairing tissues in your body. It’s needed for healthy muscles, skin, and organs.
When you eat protein-rich foods like ground pork, your body breaks it down into amino acids.
These amino acids are then used to make new proteins your body needs. Eating enough protein can also support your immune system and help with wound healing.
Remember to balance ground pork with other protein sources like fish, beans, and lean poultry for a varied diet.
Cooking Techniques for Ground Pork
Ground pork is a versatile meat that can be cooked in many ways. Sautéing and baking are two popular methods that bring out the best flavors and textures.
Sautéing
Sautéing ground pork is quick and easy.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil.
Break the pork into small pieces as you add it to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring often.
The pork is done when it’s no longer pink and reaches 160°F (71°C). Drain excess fat if needed. You can add seasonings like garlic, onions, or spices while cooking.
Sautéed ground pork works well in tacos, stir-fries, and pasta dishes. It’s also great for making sauces or fillings.
Baking
Baking ground pork is ideal for dishes like meatloaf and meatballs.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix the pork with breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings. Shape the mixture as needed for your recipe.
Place the pork in a baking dish. Cook until it reaches 160°F (71°C) inside. This usually takes 20-30 minutes for meatballs or 45-60 minutes for meatloaf.
Baked ground pork dishes are perfect for meal prep. They can be easily reheated and served with various sides.