When it comes to cooking a delicious pork dinner on a busy night, the options can be overwhelming. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! With these 18 easy and mouth-watering pork recipes, you’ll be able to whip up a satisfying meal in no time.
From classic pork chops smothered in garlic butter to slow-cooked pulled pork that falls apart at the touch of a fork, we’ve gathered a diverse range of tasty options that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re a fan of sweet and tangy flavors or hearty and comforting meals, there’s something on this list for everyone.
In the following pages, we’ll explore each recipe in detail, providing step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to ensure your meal turns out perfectly. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy the perfect pork dinner that’s as easy as it is delicious!
Garlic Butter Pork Chops
Garlic Butter Pork Chops Recipe
Succulent pork chops smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce make for a mouthwatering meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless pork chops (1-1.5 lbs)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season pork chops with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter and garlic until well combined.
4. Place the pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each pork chop, making sure to cover the entire surface.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Get ready for tender, juicy pork that falls apart at the touch! This slow cooker recipe is perfect for a stress-free meal that’s packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup barbecue sauce
– 1/4 cup beer (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine pork shoulder, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in barbecue sauce (and beer, if using).
4. Use two forks to pull the pork apart into shreds.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin
Elevate your dinner game with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the richness of pork tenderloin with the sweetness of honey and the savory flavor of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork tenderloin
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the pork tenderloin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the honey-garlic mixture evenly over the pork.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the pork and sprinkle with thyme leaves (if using).
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Let the pork rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork and Vegetable Stir Fry
This quick and flavorful stir fry combines juicy pork with a medley of colorful vegetables, all cooked to perfection in a savory sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, and snap peas)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked white rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pan; cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook until they’re tender but still crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return pork to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Pork Chops
A rich and savory dish that combines tender pork chops with a flavorful creamy mushroom sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1 inch thick)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add pork chops; cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until browned.
3. Transfer pork chops to a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In the same skillet, add sliced onion and cook until caramelized (about 5 minutes).
5. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown (about 5 minutes).
6. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine with mushroom mixture. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens.
7. Stir in Dijon mustard and season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve pork chops with creamy mushroom sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pan Pork and Potatoes
A delicious and effortless one-pan wonder that combines tender pork chops with crispy potatoes, all cooked to perfection in just one skillet. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal on the go.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless pork chops
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large cast-iron skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the pork chops and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the same skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Arrange the potato slices in a single layer on top of the onions.
6. Return the pork chops to the skillet and sprinkle with thyme.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and pork is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Pork Sliders
Get ready to elevate your party with these mouthwatering BBQ pork sliders that are packed with flavor and easy to make!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 small hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add sliced pork to the marinade and toss to coat.
4. Grill pork for 5-7 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Assemble sliders by placing cooked pork on buns and topping with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork Loin with Apples and Onions
Pork Loin with Apples and Onions: A Sweet and Savory Delight
This classic recipe combines the tender flavor of pork loin with the natural sweetness of apples and caramelized onions, creating a dish that’s both comforting and impressive.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork loin
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2-3 apples (such as Granny Smith), peeled and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
3. Meanwhile, season pork loin with salt, pepper, and cumin. Place on top of onions in the skillet.
4. Add apple halves to the skillet, cut side down. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until browned.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes or until pork loin reaches internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Let rest before slicing and serving with caramelized onions and apples.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Easy Pork Carnitas
Easy Pork Carnitas Recipe
Summary: Tender and flavorful pork carnitas with a hint of orange and spices, perfect for tacos, burritos, or as a topping for your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine pork, orange juice, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 2-1/2 hours, or until pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before shredding with two forks.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro, onion, and warm tortillas.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Pork and Pineapple Skewers
Pork and Pineapple Skewers: A Sweet and Savory Twist on a Classic Grill-Out
These colorful skewers combine the rich flavor of pork with the sweetness of pineapple, all wrapped up in a convenient and easy-to-make package.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, and ginger. Add the pork cubes and toss until coated.
3. Thread pork, pineapple, and any remaining marinade onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Sheet Pan Pork Fajitas
Get ready for a flavorful and convenient meal with this sheet pan pork fajita recipe. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch, as it’s easy to prepare and cooks quickly.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, chili powder, and cumin. Add pork, onion, bell peppers, and garlic; toss to combine.
3. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil; add the pork mixture.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until pork is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble fajitas by dividing the pork and vegetable mixture among tortillas; add desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork Schnitzel with Lemon
This classic Austrian dish gets a bright and citrusy twist with the addition of lemon zest and juice. The crispy breadcrumb coating and tender pork make for a satisfying meal that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork cutlets (about 1/2 pound each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each pork cutlet in the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Dredge the floured pork in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place the coated pork on a plate or tray.
6. Drizzle melted butter over the pork, then sprinkle with lemon zest.
7. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the schnitzel for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
8. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through.
9. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pork and Broccoli Alfredo
This recipe combines the rich flavors of pork, broccoli, and cream to create a satisfying and comforting dish. With its velvety sauce and tender pasta, Pork and Broccoli Alfredo is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp 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 according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and broccoli. Cook until broccoli is tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer over medium heat; stir until smooth.
5. Combine cooked pasta, pork, and broccoli in the saucepan with the cream sauce. Stir until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Pot Pork Stew
Get ready to savor a deliciously comforting pork stew with the ease of your Instant Pot! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the pork, onion, garlic, and frozen vegetables; cook until the pork is browned.
3. Stir in chicken broth, water, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Press “MEAT/STEW” button or manually set the cooking time to 20 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes + natural release
Pork Chop Casserole
This Pork Chop Casserole recipe is a simple and satisfying meal that combines the flavors of pork, vegetables, and creamy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork chops, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crushed crackers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the pork chops until browned; set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic; cook until tender.
4. Stir in peas and carrots, cream of mushroom soup, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Add cooked pork chops to the skillet mixture and stir to combine.
6. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded cheese and crushed crackers.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Pork Tacos
Add a kick to your taco game with this simple recipe that combines tender pork, bold spices, and fresh toppings. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground pork over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the pork is fully cooked.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with pork mixture and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork and Rice Skillet
Pork and Rice Skillet Recipe
A hearty one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines tender pork, flavorful rice, and fresh vegetables in a quick and easy skillet dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, bell peppers, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetable mixture.
6. Return the pork to the skillet and stir to combine with the rice and vegetables.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Pork Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this simple and flavorful recipe that yields tender, juicy pork meatballs baked to perfection. Perfect for snacking or adding to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
5. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each ball.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Looking for a quick and delicious pork dinner recipe to satisfy your cravings on busy nights? Look no further! This article presents 18 mouth-watering easy pork recipes that are sure to please. From classic dishes like Garlic Butter Pork Chops and Slow Cooker Pulled Pork, to international-inspired flavors like Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin and Pork and Pineapple Skewers, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or a quick stir-fry, these recipes are perfect for busy home cooks who want to create a memorable meal without breaking a sweat.