Are you tired of throwing away leftovers only to order takeout or eat out again? With a little creativity, leftover pork can be transformed into a whole new meal. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick and easy dinner ideas or a foodie seeking inspiration for your next meal prep, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 tasty recipes that use leftover pork as the star of the show. From comforting breakfast dishes to satisfying lunches and dinners, these recipes will inspire you to get creative with your leftovers and reduce food waste in the process. So go ahead, dig into your fridge and freezer, and let’s get cooking!
Pork Fried Rice with Vegetables
A simple and flavorful Chinese-inspired dish that combines cooked rice, savory pork, and a variety of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced cooked pork (such as bacon or ground pork)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, peas)
– 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 diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cooked pork; stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they start to soften, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the rice is heated through.
6. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes.
BBQ Pork Tacos with Slaw
Get ready to fiesta with these mouthwatering BBQ Pork Tacos, topped with a refreshing slaw and wrapped in crispy tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Slaw ingredients:
+ 2 cups shredded cabbage
+ 1 cup shredded carrots
+ 2 tbsp mayonnaise
+ 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
+ Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, lime wedges
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and 2 tbsp water. Add pork pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill pork for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by slicing grilled pork into thin strips and placing onto tortillas.
6. Top with slaw (see below) and your choice of optional toppings.
Slaw:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix until well combined and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Enjoy your delicious BBQ Pork Tacos with Slaw!
Pork and Cheddar Quesadillas
Pork and Cheddar Quesadillas Recipe
A twist on the classic Mexican dish, these quesadillas fill crispy tortillas with tender pork, melted cheddar cheese, and a hint of spice. Perfect for a quick dinner or game-day snack!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked pork (such as carnitas or pulled pork)
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, diced onions
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the cooked pork, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the pork mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top of the pork.
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.
8. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Pork Stir-Fry with Noodles
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines savory pork, crunchy vegetables, and chewy noodles. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 1 cup cooked noodles (rice noodles or egg noodles work well)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining oil, garlic, and mixed vegetables. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Return pork to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked noodles to the pan and stir-fry for about 1 minute, until well combined.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork and Potato Hash
Savor the comforting flavors of this hearty dish, perfect for a cozy brunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the pork cubes and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Return the cooked pork to the skillet and stir to combine with the potato mixture.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the pork is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Loaded Pork Nachos
Experience the ultimate comfort food with our Loaded Pork Nachos recipe! This dish combines tender pork, creamy cheese, and crunchy tortilla chips for a deliciously loaded snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, slow-cooked in your favorite BBQ sauce
– 6-8 corn tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon diced onion
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, jalapeños, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Spoon slow-cooked pork over the chips, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the pork.
5. Dollop sour cream on top of the cheese and sprinkle with cumin, salt, and pepper.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with diced onion and your choice of optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pork and Bean Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender pork, creamy beans, and savory spices. It’s a great way to warm up on a chilly day or serve as a satisfying meal any time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 ounces) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 teaspoons dried oregano
– 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, garlic, beans, tomatoes, chicken broth, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 45 minutes or until the pork is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pork-Stuffed Bell Peppers
Savory pork and bell peppers come together in this flavorful and easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers, removing seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, combine ground pork, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the pork mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed peppers.
6. Place peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pork and Egg Breakfast Burritos
A flavorful breakfast twist on traditional burritos, packed with scrambled eggs, crispy pork, and gooey cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked pork (such as carnitas or bacon), diced
– 6 large eggs
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 large flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, avocado
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt. Cook in a non-stick skillet over medium heat until scrambled, breaking into small curds as they cook.
2. Add diced pork to the skillet and stir to combine with the eggs. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble burritos by spooning egg and pork mixture onto each tortilla, followed by a sprinkle of cheese and cilantro.
5. Fold burritos in half to enclose filling.
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Pork Carnitas Enchiladas
Pork Carnitas Enchiladas Recipe
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this rich and satisfying dish, featuring tender pork carnitas wrapped in tortillas and smothered in a creamy enchilada sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 8 corn tortillas
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (divided)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced onions, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the lard or oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork, garlic, oregano, and cumin. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the pork is browned and cooked through (about 15-20 minutes).
3. Shred the pork with two forks. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
5. Dip each tortilla in warm water for about 30 seconds, then wrap a few tablespoons of the pork mixture inside, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Place the filled tortillas seam-side down in a baking dish and cover with half the enchilada sauce and half the shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot, garnished with your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pork and Broccoli Alfredo Pasta
Quickly satisfy your pasta cravings with this rich and creamy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb boneless pork loin, sliced into thin strips
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add pork strips and cook for 3-4 minutes or until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add broccoli florets to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. In a large saucepan, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Add cooked pasta, pork strips, and reserved pasta water to the saucepan. Toss everything together until well coated.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork and Veggie Spring Rolls
Elevate your snack game with these crispy and delicious Pork and Veggie Spring Rolls, packed with flavorful filling and crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 package spring roll wrappers (about 20-24 sheets)
– 1/2 pound cooked pork, shredded
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (shredded carrots, chopped cabbage, sliced scallions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine cooked pork, mixed vegetables, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
2. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Brush the edges with water and fold the bottom half up over the filling. Fold in the sides and then roll up the wrapper to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
4. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. When hot, add a few spring rolls (do not overcrowd) and fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total, including preparation and frying time.
Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with the addition of tender pulled pork, melty cheese, and crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of white bread
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, divided
– 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup of pulled pork (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a griddle or skillet over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, on the griddle.
4. Top with shredded cheese, pulled pork, and another bread slice (butter-side up).
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Pork and Rice Stuffed Tomatoes
Pork and Rice Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed tomatoes, this recipe combines savory pork and rice with the sweetness of fresh tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes, cored and halved
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the garlic, ground pork, cooked rice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the pork is browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
4. Stuff each tomato half with the pork and rice mixture, dividing it evenly among the four tomatoes.
5. Place the stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pork and Cabbage Dumplings
A hearty and comforting dish that combines tender pork, crispy cabbage, and soft dumplings, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, chopped cabbage, onion, egg, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well until just combined.
2. Gradually add the flour to the mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
5. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the dumplings for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve hot with your favorite accompaniments.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Spicy Pork Ramen Bowl
Spicy Pork Ramen Bowl Recipe
Elevate your ramen game with this spicy and savory bowl filled with tender pork, rich broth, and springy noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz ramen noodles
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– Scallions, thinly sliced
– Sesame seeds, for garnish
– Fried shallots, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan or wok, cook ground pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, Gochujang, and sesame oil to the pan. Stir to combine and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pan. Cook until onions are translucent.
5. Pour in chicken broth and water. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
6. To assemble bowls, place cooked noodles in the bottom, followed by pork mixture, and garnish with scallions, sesame seeds, and fried shallots (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork and Cornbread Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole that combines tender pork with a crumbly cornbread crust, perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook the ground pork in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together cornbread mix, milk, and beaten egg. Pour the mixture over the cooked pork mixture in the skillet.
5. Top with frozen corn kernels and sprinkle with paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the casserole to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown.
Pork and Mushroom Risotto
This hearty Italian-inspired dish combines tender pork, earthy mushrooms, and creamy Arborio rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
• 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add pork; cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
2. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. If using wine, add it with the first cup of broth.
7. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in cooked pork. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Are you tired of throwing away leftover pork? Look no further! This article provides 18 delicious recipes that will transform your leftover pork into a tasty meal. From Pork Fried Rice with Vegetables to Loaded Pork Nachos, and from Pork- Stuffed Bell Peppers to Spicy Pork Ramen Bowl, there’s something for everyone. These quick and easy recipes are perfect for busy cooks who want to reduce food waste and enjoy a satisfying meal.