12 Ground Pork Recipes for Quick and Flavorful Weeknight Meals
Ground pork is a versatile and tasty ingredient that can be used in many different dishes. It’s a great alternative to ground beef, offering meals a unique flavor and texture.
It’s also often more affordable, making it a budget-friendly choice for families.
I’ve put together a collection of 12 delicious ground pork recipes that are easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights.
These recipes showcase the versatility of ground pork, from breakfast dishes to hearty dinners and everything in between. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or something a bit more adventurous, there’s a recipe here for everyone.
1: Spicy Ground Pork Tacos
I love making spicy ground pork tacos for a quick and tasty meal. I start by browning the pork in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Then I add garlic, chili powder, cumin, and paprika for flavor and heat. A splash of lime juice brightens it up.
I warm corn tortillas and fill them with seasoned pork. Toppings like fresh cilantro, diced onion, and sliced jalapeños add an extra kick.
Spicy Ground Pork Tacos
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground pork
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Juice of 1 lime
- Corn tortillas, warmed
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Diced onion (for garnish)
- Sliced jalapeños (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground pork, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Add the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Remove from heat and stir in the lime juice.
- Warm the corn tortillas and fill them with the spicy pork mixture.
- Top with fresh cilantro, diced onion, and sliced jalapeños for extra heat.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
2: Ginger Pork Lettuce Wraps
I love making these tasty wraps for a quick meal. I start by cooking ground pork with onions in a skillet.
Then I mix in hoisin sauce, garlic, ginger, vinegar, and soy sauce. I add water, chestnuts, and green onions for crunch.
I spoon the mixture into lettuce leaves and enjoy. The ginger gives it a nice kick.
Ginger Pork Lettuce Wraps
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup water chestnuts, chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Large lettuce leaves (like romaine or butter lettuce)
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground pork and chopped onions until the pork is browned and the onions are soft.
- Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Add the water and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.
- Mix in the chopped water chestnuts and green onions for added crunch.
- Spoon the pork mixture into lettuce leaves and serve immediately.
3: Pork and Cabbage Dumplings
I love making pork and cabbage dumplings at home. They’re tasty and fun to prepare.
I mix ground pork with chopped cabbage, green onions, ginger, and seasonings. Then I wrap the filling in dumpling wrappers.
I cook the dumplings by pan-frying first, then adding water and steaming until done. The result is juicy pork, tender cabbage, and a crispy bottom.
Pork and Cabbage Dumplings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground pork
- 2 cups cabbage, finely chopped
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- Dumpling wrappers
- Water (for sealing and steaming)
- Oil for pan-frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground pork, chopped cabbage, green onions, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar.
- Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each dumpling wrapper. Wet the edges with water and fold to seal tightly.
- Heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the dumplings flat-side down and cook until the bottoms are golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in a small amount of water (about 1/4 cup), cover the skillet, and let the dumplings steam for 5-7 minutes until cooked through.
- Serve the dumplings with dipping sauce, like soy sauce or chili oil, and enjoy!
4: Thai Basil Pork Stir-Fry
I love making Thai Basil Pork Stir-Fry. It’s a quick and tasty dish that takes just 15 minutes.
I start by frying garlic and chilies in oil. Then I add ground pork and cook it until crispy.
I mix fish sauce, soy sauce, and a bit of sugar to make a sauce. I pour this over the pork and let it bubble.
Thai Basil Pork Stir-Fry
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground pork
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 Thai chilies, chopped (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Cooked jasmine rice (for serving)
Instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and chilies, and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the ground pork and cook until browned and crispy, about 5-7 minutes, breaking up the meat as it cooks.
- In a small bowl, mix the fish sauce, soy sauce, and sugar.
- Pour the sauce over the cooked pork and stir well. Let the mixture bubble for a minute to thicken slightly.
- Remove from heat and stir in the fresh Thai basil leaves until wilted.
- Serve the pork stir-fry over jasmine rice and enjoy!
5: Sweet and Sour Pork Meatballs
I love making sweet and sour pork meatballs, a tasty twist on the classic dish. To start, I mix ground pork with breadcrumbs, seasonings, and an egg.
Then, I form small meatballs and brown them in a skillet. I combine pineapple juice, vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar for the sauce.
I simmer the meatballs in the sauce with pineapple chunks and bell peppers until everything is hot and the flavors meld. My family enjoys this quick and easy meal.
Sweet and Sour Pork Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Cooked rice (for serving)
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. Form the mixture into small meatballs.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5-7 minutes, then remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, combine pineapple juice, rice vinegar, sugar, and the remaining soy sauce. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
- Add the pineapple chunks and bell peppers to the sauce, and then return the meatballs to the pan.
- Simmer the meatballs in the sauce for 10 minutes until cooked through and the sauce thickens.
- Serve the sweet and sour pork meatballs over cooked rice and enjoy!
6: Pork and Apple Sausage Rolls
I love making pork and apple sausage rolls. They’re a tasty twist on classic sausage rolls.
I mix ground pork with grated apple, breadcrumbs, and herbs to make them. Then I wrap the mixture in puff pastry.
Before baking, I brush the rolls with egg wash. This gives them a golden color. They’re perfect for parties or snacks.
Pork and Apple Sausage Rolls
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 apple, grated
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix together the ground pork, grated apple, breadcrumbs, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface and cut it into two equal rectangles.
- Divide the pork mixture evenly between the two pastry rectangles, shaping the pork into logs along one edge of each piece of pastry.
- Roll the pastry over the pork mixture to enclose it, then seal the edges. Cut each roll into smaller pieces.
- Place the sausage rolls on the prepared baking sheet and brush them with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and the sausage is cooked through.
- Serve warm and enjoy these savory pork and apple sausage rolls!
7: Ground Pork Bolognese
I love making ground pork bolognese. It’s a tasty twist on the classic pasta sauce. I start by browning the pork with onions, carrots, and celery.
Then, I add garlic, tomatoes, and wine. I let it simmer until thick and flavorful. It’s great over pasta or in lasagna.
Ground Pork Bolognese
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup red or white wine
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the ground pork and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir well, then reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve the bolognese sauce over your favorite pasta, or use it as a filling for lasagna. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
8: Pork Stuffed Bell Peppers
I love making pork stuffed bell peppers. They’re easy and tasty. I start by cooking rice and browning ground pork with onions and garlic.
Then I mix in tomato paste, spices, and the cooked rice. I stuff this mixture into halved bell peppers.
Finally, I bake them until the peppers are tender. A sprinkle of cheese on top makes them even better.
Pork Stuffed Bell Peppers
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the halved bell peppers in a baking dish.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground pork, onions, and garlic over medium heat until the pork is browned and the onions are softened.
- Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Add the cooked rice to the pork mixture and stir until evenly combined.
- Spoon the pork and rice mixture into the bell peppers, filling them generously.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender.
- If using cheese, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of each pepper. Bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9: Vietnamese Pork Spring Rolls
I love making Vietnamese pork spring rolls. They’re light, fresh, and perfect for a summer meal.
To make them, I cook ground pork with garlic and spices. Then I wrap it in rice paper with veggies like lettuce, cucumber, and herbs.
Rolling them takes practice, but it’s fun. First, I dip the rice paper in water to soften it. Then, I add the fillings and roll them up like a little burrito.
Vietnamese Pork Spring Rolls
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground pork
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 8-10 rice paper wrappers
- 1 cucumber, julienned
- 1 large carrot, julienned
- Fresh lettuce leaves
- Fresh mint and cilantro
- Rice vermicelli (optional)
Instructions
- In a skillet, cook the ground pork with garlic, soy sauce, fish sauce, and sugar until fully cooked. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the rice paper wrappers by dipping them in warm water for a few seconds to soften.
- Place the softened rice paper on a clean surface. Add some lettuce, cucumber, carrot, herbs, and the cooked pork in the center.
- If using, add rice vermicelli for extra texture.
- Fold in the sides of the rice paper and roll it up tightly like a burrito.
- Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
- Serve the spring rolls with dipping sauces like hoisin or peanut sauce.
10: Pork and Green Bean Stir-Fry
I love making pork and green bean stir-fry for a quick weeknight meal. I start by heating oil in a large skillet or wok. Then I add ground pork and cook it until browned.
Next, I toss in chopped green beans and stir-fry them with the pork. I like to add garlic and ginger for extra flavor. A simple sauce of soy sauce and brown sugar ties it all together.
This dish cooks up fast in about 10-15 minutes. I serve it over rice for a tasty, balanced meal.
Pork and Green Bean Stir-Fry
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground pork
- 2 cups green beans, trimmed and chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Cooked rice for serving
Instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground pork and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the green beans to the skillet and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until they start to soften.
- Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce and brown sugar. Pour the sauce over the pork and green beans.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring to coat the pork and beans in the sauce.
- Serve the stir-fry over cooked rice for a complete meal.
11: Ground Pork Rice Bowls
Ground pork rice bowls are a tasty and quick meal. I like to cook the pork with ginger, garlic, and onions for extra flavor.
I add soy sauce and some sugar to give it a savory-sweet taste. Serve the pork over rice with some veggies on top.
Cucumber slices and shredded carrots work well. If you want it spicy, a dash of sriracha adds nice heat.
Ground Pork Rice Bowls
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Cooked rice
- Vegetables for topping (e.g., cucumber slices, shredded carrots)
- Sriracha (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground pork and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced ginger, garlic, and diced onion to the skillet. Cook until the onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the soy sauce and sugar. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
- Serve the pork mixture over cooked rice.
- Top with sliced cucumbers, shredded carrots, and a dash of sriracha if desired.
12: Pork and Shrimp Wontons
I love making pork and shrimp wontons. They’re tasty little dumplings filled with ground pork and minced shrimp.
I combine the meats with flavorful ingredients like garlic, ginger, and scallions to make them. I add soy sauce, rice wine, and sesame oil for extra taste.
I put a small spoonful of filling on each wonton wrapper, fold them into triangles, and seal the edges.
Pork and Shrimp Wontons
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1/2 lb shrimp, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 scallions, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice wine or dry sherry
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Wonton wrappers
- Water (for sealing wrappers)
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the ground pork, minced shrimp, garlic, ginger, and scallions.
- Add soy sauce, rice wine, and sesame oil. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of each wonton wrapper.
- Moisten the edges of the wrapper with a little water. Fold the wrapper in half to form a triangle and press to seal. You can also pleat the edges for a more traditional look.
- Repeat until all wontons are filled and sealed.
- To cook, you can either steam the wontons for about 10 minutes, boil them for 5-7 minutes, or pan-fry them until crispy.
Cooking Tips For Ground Pork
When it comes to cooking ground pork, several tips and techniques can help you achieve the best flavor, texture, and safety. Here are some essential points to keep in mind:
- Choose the right fat content:
- Ground pork comes in various fat percentages, typically 70% to 95% lean.
- For dishes that require a more succulent texture, like meatballs or meatloaf, opt for a higher fat content (80-85% lean).
- For healthier options or recipes that don’t rely on fat for moisture, choose leaner ground pork (90-95% lean).
- Properly store and handle ground pork:
- Always store ground pork in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below, and use within 1-2 days of purchase.
- If not used immediately, store ground pork in the freezer for up to 4 months.
- Thaw frozen ground pork in the refrigerator, never at room temperature, to prevent bacterial growth.
- Season and flavor the meat:
- Ground pork pairs well with various seasonings, herbs, and spices, such as garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and five-spice powder.
- Experiment with different flavor profiles to create unique and tasty dishes.
- Mix them into the ground pork before shaping or cooking for even seasonings.
- Avoid overcooking:
- Overcooked ground pork can become dry, tough, and less flavorful.
- Cook ground pork until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C), as measured by a meat thermometer.
- Once the pork is cooked, please remove it from the heat source to prevent further cooking and drying.
- Drain excess fat:
- Ground pork can release significant fat during cooking, depending on the cut used.
- To remove excess fat, cook the pork in a skillet or pan and then drain the fat using a slotted spoon or tilting the pan and spooning out the fat.
- Blotting the cooked pork with paper towels can also help remove excess fat.
- Use ground pork in various dishes:
- Ground pork is versatile and can be used in various recipes, from Asian-inspired stir-fries and dumplings to Western-style meatballs, burgers, and tacos.
- Don’t be afraid to substitute ground pork for other meats in your favorite recipes for a change in flavor and texture.
Following these cooking tips ensures that your ground pork dishes are safe, flavorful, and enjoyable. Always prioritize food safety and cook pork to the appropriate internal temperature to minimize the risk of foodborne illness.
Health Benefits Of Ground Pork
Ground pork, a versatile and flavorful protein source, is often overlooked in favor of other meats like beef or chicken. However, this humble ingredient offers a range of health benefits that make it a worthy addition to a balanced diet.
One of the most notable advantages of ground pork is its high protein content. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, maintaining muscle mass, and supporting various bodily functions.
A 100-gram serving of cooked ground pork provides approximately 25 grams of protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to increase their protein intake.
Ground pork is also a good source of several essential vitamins and minerals. It is particularly rich in thiamin, a B vitamin crucial in energy metabolism and proper nervous system function.
Pork also contains significant amounts of niacin, vitamin B6, phosphorus, and zinc, contributing to overall health and well-being.
Compared to other meats, ground pork tends to be higher in monounsaturated fats, which is considered healthier than saturated fats.
Monounsaturated fats have been associated with improved cholesterol levels, reduced inflammation, and a lower risk of heart disease.
Moreover, ground pork is a natural source of creatine, an organic compound that enhances muscle strength and athletic performance. This makes it an attractive option for athletes and fitness enthusiasts looking to support their training goals.
It’s important to note that the health benefits of ground pork can vary depending on the cut and preparation method. Opting for leaner cuts, such as pork loin or tenderloin, and removing visible fat can help reduce the overall fat and calorie content.
Cooking methods that don’t require added oils, such as grilling or baking, can also keep the dish healthier.
When incorporating ground pork into your diet, balance portion sizes with other nutrient-dense foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats.
As with any meat, handling and cooking ground pork properly is crucial to avoid foodborne illnesses.
Ground pork’s versatility makes it easy to include in various dishes, from meatballs and burgers to stir-fries and tacos. Experimenting with different spices, herbs, and seasonings can help keep meals interesting and flavorful.
In conclusion, ground pork offers numerous health benefits, including high protein content, essential vitamins and minerals, and healthier fats.
By choosing lean cuts, preparing them thoughtfully, and incorporating them into a balanced diet, you can enjoy this often-overlooked meat’s taste and nutritional advantages.
