Are you tired of throwing away leftover pork only to order takeout or cook a boring old pork chop for dinner? Look no further! With these 18 flavorful and easy recipes, you’ll never have to sacrifice flavor for convenience again. From classic comfort food to international twists, we’ve got you covered with delicious ways to repurpose your leftover pork.
Whether you’re in the mood for a quick stir-fry or a hearty casserole, our collection of recipes is sure to inspire you. Try turning last night’s roast into a savory Pork and Potato Hash, or transform leftover pork chops into crispy Pork Quesadillas with Cheese. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, give one of our international-inspired dishes a try – like Pork and Kimchi Fried Rice or Pork and Sweet Potato Curry.
Stay tuned for the full list of recipes and get ready to elevate your leftovers game!
Pork Fried Rice with Vegetables
This classic Chinese dish is a staple of comfort food, packed with protein, fiber, and flavor. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a mouthwatering meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup diced pork (cooked and seasoned with soy sauce and oyster sauce)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
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 3 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked pork; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Push the mixture to one side of the pan; add a little more oil if needed.
5. Pour in the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Stir-fry the rice with the vegetable mixture until combined and heated through, about 5 minutes.
7. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork and Bean Burritos
Pork and Bean Burritos Recipe
A flavorful and filling twist on traditional burritos, this recipe combines the comforting duo of pork and beans with a blend of spices and wrapped in a warm tortilla. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked pork (such as carnitas or pulled pork), shredded
– 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large flour tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the cumin, chili powder, and cooked pork. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the pinto beans to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the burritos by spooning the pork and bean mixture onto each tortilla, then topping with shredded cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork Stir-Fry with Noodles
Savor the flavors of Asia with this quick and easy recipe that combines tender pork, crunchy vegetables, and soft noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork strips (sirloin or loin)
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked soba noodles
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the pork strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tbsp oil. Add bell peppers and garlic; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
5. Add cooked noodles, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using) to the pan. Stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Return pork to the pan; stir-fry for about 1 minute, until everything is well combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions (optional).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork and Potato Hash
Pork and Potato Hash Recipe
Summary: A hearty and flavorful dish that combines crispy pork with tender potatoes, perfect as a side or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or other vegetables for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and continue cooking until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and stir to combine with the pork mixture.
5. Transfer the skillet contents to a 9×13 inch baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pork Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Pork Tacos with Avocado Salsa: A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional tacos. This recipe combines tender pork, crunchy slaw, and creamy avocado salsa for a delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Slaw (see below)
– Avocado salsa (see below)
Slaw:
– 1 red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon honey
Avocado Salsa:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, and olive oil. Add pork and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook pork for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos with sliced pork, slaw, and avocado salsa.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (including marinating time)
Pork and Cabbage Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines tender pork with crunchy cabbage, this stir-fry is a quick and easy meal perfect for any occasion. With a balance of savory and sweet flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-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 minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the shredded cabbage and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return the cooked pork to the pan, stirring to combine with the cabbage mixture.
6. Add soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using), stir-frying for an additional minute.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork Quesadillas with Cheese
A flavorful twist on traditional quesadillas, these pork-filled delights combine tender pork, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas for a satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked pork shoulder, shredded
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the pork, cheese, and cilantro.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the pork mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Pork and Egg Breakfast Scramble
Start your day with a flavorful and filling breakfast scramble that combines juicy pork, scrambled eggs, and crispy vegetables. This recipe is perfect for busy mornings when you need a satisfying meal on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/2 cup diced onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground pork and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, about 5 minutes.
3. Push the cooked pork to one side of the skillet. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until almost set.
4. Add the diced bell peppers, onions, and garlic to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Mix the eggs and vegetables together with the cooked pork.
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the eggs are fully scrambled.
7. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork and Corn Chowder
This hearty chowder is a perfect blend of tender pork, sweet corn, and savory spices, making it a comforting meal for any occasion. With its creamy texture and flavorful broth, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in corn kernels, chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until pork is tender.
4. Stir in heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Pork and Mushroom Pasta
Pork and Mushroom Pasta Recipe
This hearty pasta dish combines tender pork, earthy mushrooms, and savory flavors, all wrapped up in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 cup cooked pasta (pappardelle or fettuccine work well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add mushrooms. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in tomato sauce and cooked pork. Simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Combine cooked pasta and sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork Stuffed Bell Peppers
Add a flavorful twist to traditional bell peppers with this pork-stuffed recipe. The combination of tender pork, crunchy rice, and sweet bell peppers is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add cooked rice, chopped onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pork mixture. Stir to combine.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the pork mixture, filling to the top.
6. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pork and Kimchi Fried Rice
This Korean-inspired dish combines spicy kimchi with savory pork and fluffy rice for a flavorful one-pot meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced pork (such as shoulder or belly), cooked and seasoned with soy sauce and sugar
– 1/2 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the cooked pork and stir-fry until crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Push the pork aside, leaving some space in the pan.
4. Crack in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Pour in the chopped kimchi and stir-fry for 1 minute, breaking up any large chunks.
6. Mix in the cooked rice, stirring to combine with the pork and kimchi.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
8. Season with salt to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
10. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork and Sweet Potato Curry
This hearty curry is a flavorful blend of tender pork, sweet potatoes, and aromatic spices. It’s perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add sweet potatoes, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in coconut milk and browned pork. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let curry cook for 30-40 minutes or until pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Pork and Spinach Omelette
Start your day with a flavorful twist on the classic omelette, packed with juicy pork and nutritious spinach. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a busy morning.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup diced cooked pork (such as bacon or ham)
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk together with a fork. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the butter in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and cook until the edges start to set, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the diced pork and spinach leaves to one half of the omelette.
5. Use a spatula to gently fold the other half of the omelette over the filling.
6. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, until the cheese is melted (if using).
7. Slide the omelette onto a plate and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Pork and Spinach Omelette!
Pork and Lentil Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender pork, nutritious lentils, and aromatic spices, making it a great option for a cozy meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the pork over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the lentils, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pork and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines tender pork with crisp broccoli and savory soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable 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. In the same pan, add the broccoli and garlic. Cook until the broccoli is tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the cooked pork back into the pan along with soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry everything together for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the stir-fry over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork and Cheese Empanadas
Pork and Cheese Empanadas Recipe
Looking for a flavorful and easy-to-make snack or appetizer? Look no further! These Pork and Cheese Empanadas are a delicious combination of tender pork, melted cheese, and flaky pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 package empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup cooked ground pork
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the empanada dough to desired thickness.
3. Mix cooked ground pork with salt, pepper, and a pinch of olive oil.
4. Place a spoonful of pork mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Top with shredded cheese.
6. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to form a triangle or square shape.
7. Press edges together to seal and use fork tines to crimp.
8. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork and Pineapple Fried Rice
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional fried rice! This recipe combines juicy pork, sweet pineapple, and savory spices to create a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced cooked pork
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork, onion, and garlic; cook until the pork is browned and the onion is translucent.
3. Add the pineapple, soy sauce, salt, and pepper; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy at the bottom.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get creative with your leftover pork! These 18 flavorful recipes are perfect for busy weeknights. From international-inspired dishes like Pork Stir-Fry with Noodles and Pork and Kimchi Fried Rice, to comforting favorites like Pork and Potato Hash and Pork Quesadillas with Cheese, you’ll never tire of the possibilities. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick and easy meal or something more substantial, there’s something on this list for everyone. So go ahead, get cooking, and turn last night’s dinner into tomorrow’s delicious meal!
