Getting home from a long day and wondering what’s for dinner can be overwhelming, especially when it seems like you’re out of options. But fear not, fellow busy bees! We’ve got 20 mouth-watering pork recipes that are quick, easy, and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters. From tender and juicy pork chops to flavorful pulled pork sandwiches, we’ve rounded up the best of the best to make your weeknight dinners a breeze.
Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or a little more adventurous, our effortless recipes are perfect for busy families, couples, or anyone looking for a delicious meal without the fuss. So go ahead, take a look at our collection below, and start planning those stress-free dinner parties!
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Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Pork Chops
This recipe is a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, all thanks to the magic of slow cooking. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be rewarded with tender and juicy pork chops smothered in a rich honey garlic sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper.
2. In the slow cooker, combine honey, garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger. Stir until well combined.
3. Add the pork chops to the slow cooker, making sure they’re coated with the sauce.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
One-Pan Pork Tenderloin with Vegetables
This recipe yields a tender and flavorful pork tenderloin paired with a medley of colorful vegetables, all cooked to perfection in one pan. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) pork tenderloin
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 small zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup mixed cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the pork tenderloin until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. Add sliced onion, minced garlic, red bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes to the same pan.
5. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
6. Return the pork tenderloin to the pan and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the pork reaches internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
8. Let rest before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Instant Pot Pulled Pork Tacos
Get ready to elevate your taco game with this mouth-watering recipe that combines the tender, juicy texture of pulled pork with the bold flavors of Mexico.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1/4 cup orange juice (or to taste)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 tacos shells (homemade or store-bought)
– Shredded cheese, sour cream, diced tomatoes, and other taco toppings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the onion until translucent.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add pork shoulder, taco seasoning, orange juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Close the lid, ensuring the valve is set to “Sealing”.
5. Cook at high pressure for 90 minutes + 10-minute natural release.
6. Shred pork with two forks and stir in cilantro (if using).
7. Assemble tacos by spooning pork onto shells and topping with your favorite ingredients.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours, including prep time.
Sheet Pan Pork Chops and Potatoes
In just under an hour, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table with this easy recipe. Sheet pan cooking is a game-changer for busy weeknights – simply toss your ingredients on one pan and let the oven do the work!
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 lbs)
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. Place pork chops on one half of the pan, leaving space between each chop.
4. Toss potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Spread them out on the other half of the pan.
5. Drizzle chicken broth over the potatoes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Pork Loin Skillet
Transform a humble pork loin into a rich and flavorful main dish with this easy skillet recipe. Sear the pork to perfection, then finish it off with a compound butter that’s packed with garlic and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) boneless pork loin
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the pork loin with salt and pepper.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork loin for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
4. Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet.
5. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
6. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the top of the pork loin.
7. Return the pork loin to the skillet and transfer to the preheated oven. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
8. Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pork and Mushroom Stir Fry
A classic Asian-inspired dish that combines tender pork, earthy mushrooms, and savory soy sauce, all cooked to perfection in a wok or large skillet. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork strips (such as loin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add the pork strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the mushrooms and garlic. Cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the soy sauce and sesame oil to the pan. Stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Return the pork strips to the pan and stir-fry everything together for another minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Easy Baked Pork Chops with Apples
This recipe combines the sweetness of caramelized apples with the tender juiciness of baked pork chops, resulting in a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless pork chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 2-3 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Place the pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Sprinkle the sugar mixture evenly over the pork chops.
5. Arrange sliced apples around the pork chops, leaving some space between each piece.
6. Drizzle apple cider vinegar and olive oil over the apples and pork chops.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until pork chops are cooked through and apples are caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pork Fried Rice in 20 Minutes
In just 20 minutes, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal with this simple recipe. This classic Chinese dish is a staple for many families around the world, and now you can enjoy it at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced pork (such as bacon or ham)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked rice to the pan. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Add the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Return the cooked pork to the pan and stir-fry for another minute.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Crispy Breaded Pork Cutlets
Elevate your pork game with these crispy breaded cutlets that are easy to make and packed with flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork cutlets (about 1/4 inch thick)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each pork cutlet in the flour mixture, coating evenly.
4. Dip the floured cutlet in the beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the breaded cutlets for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Transfer to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Get ready to fall in love with these mouthwatering BBQ pulled pork sandwiches, perfect for a casual gathering or a quick weeknight dinner. This recipe yields tender and juicy pork that’s slathered in tangy BBQ sauce and piled high on soft buns.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ rub
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 cup barbecue sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker or slow cooker to 275°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the BBQ rub and brown sugar.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder.
4. Place the pork in the smoker or slow cooker and cook for 8-10 hours, or until tender.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and stir in barbecue sauce until coated.
6. Split the hamburger buns and pile the pulled pork on top.
7. Serve immediately, topped with coleslaw if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Pork and Broccoli Alfredo Pasta
A creamy and savory pasta dish that combines the flavors of pork, broccoli, and parmesan cheese with a rich alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fettuccine pasta
– 1 pound boneless pork tenderloin, sliced into thin strips
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add pork strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Then, add broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and stir until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine cooked pasta, pork, and broccoli in the alfredo sauce. Toss until coated.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork Carnitas Bowls
These tender pork carnitas bowls are a delicious and easy-to-make meal that combines the richness of slow-cooked pork with the brightness of fresh toppings. Serve them with your favorite sides for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 corn tortillas
– Toppings: diced onions, cilantro, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine pork shoulder, lard or oil, orange juice, lime juice, garlic, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Cover and slow-cook for 2-1/2 hours, or until pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
4. Shred pork with two forks and warm tortillas by wrapping them in foil and heating in the oven for 10 minutes.
5. Assemble bowls by spooning pork onto tortillas and topping with your favorite ingredients.
Cook Time: 2-1/2 hours
Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet impressive recipe. Tender pork chops coated in a crispy Parmesan crust, sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Season pork chops with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Dip each pork chop into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork and Black Bean Quesadillas
Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make meal that combines the rich flavors of pork, black beans, and cheese? Look no further! These Pork and Black Bean Quesadillas are a perfect solution for a quick dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked pork, shredded
– 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together cooked pork, black beans, cilantro, olive oil, onion, and garlic.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese on half of the tortilla.
4. Add the pork mixture on top of the cheese, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quick Pork and Corn Chowder
Get a hearty and comforting meal on the table with this simple recipe that combines tender pork, sweet corn, and creamy potatoes in a flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, diced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the pork over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the potatoes, corn, chicken broth, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Pork Pinwheels with Vegetables
These pinwheels are a perfect combination of tender pork, creamy pesto, and crunchy vegetables, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a satisfying snack, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked pork (such as roast pork or pulled pork)
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, cucumber, carrots, and spinach)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together cooked pork and pesto until well combined.
3. Lay out a tortilla and spread half of the pork mixture along the center of the tortilla.
4. Top with mixed vegetables and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a pinwheel shape.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Place pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until tortillas are crispy and golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sausage and Pepper Sheet Pan Dinner
A flavorful and easy one-pan meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch. This recipe combines juicy sausage, colorful peppers, and crispy potatoes for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 large red potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite seasonings or herbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. Place the sausage on one half of the pan, leaving space between each link.
4. Toss the peppers and potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper; spread them out on the other half of the pan.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the sausage is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with minced garlic if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pork and Sweet Potato Skillet
A hearty one-pan meal that combines tender pork, caramelized sweet potatoes, and crispy onions – perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the pork and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. Add the sweet potatoes and onion to the skillet; cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the garlic and smoked paprika; cook for 1 minute.
6. Return the pork to the skillet and stir to combine with the sweet potato mixture.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pork is cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Hoisin Glazed Pork Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this sweet and savory recipe featuring tender pork meatballs smothered in a sticky hoisin glaze. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for a party.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Hoisin glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, breadcrumbs, garlic, soy sauce, and egg. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While the meatballs are cooking, prepare the hoisin glaze by whisking together soy sauce, honey, and 2 tablespoons water.
7. Remove from oven and brush with hoisin glaze.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pork Schnitzel with Lemon Butter Sauce
This classic Austrian dish is a staple of German cuisine, where tender pork cutlets are breaded and fried to perfection, served with a tangy lemon butter sauce that complements its crispy exterior. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can recreate this flavorful treat at home.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork cutlets (1/2 inch thick)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 eggs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Lemon butter sauce ingredients:
+ 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix flour, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
2. Dip each pork cutlet in eggs and then coat with breadcrumb mixture.
3. Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry coated pork cutlets for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
5. Prepare lemon butter sauce by melting butter, adding garlic and lemon juice, then seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve fried pork schnitzel with warm lemon butter sauce.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total (10-12 minutes for frying and 5-7 minutes for preparing lemon butter sauce).
Summary
Get ready to cook up a storm with these 20 effortless and easy pork dinner recipes perfect for busy weeknights! From slow cooker honey garlic pork chops to instant pot pulled pork tacos, and from sheet pan pork chops and potatoes to crispy breaded pork cutlets, there’s something for everyone. Impress your family and friends with these mouth-watering dishes that are quick, delicious, and sure to become new favorites. Discover the perfect recipe to add some excitement to your mealtime routine!