Ground pork is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many tasty dishes. It’s cheaper than other meats and adds great flavor to meals.

You can use it in lots of different cuisines from around the world.

These 30+ ground pork recipes will give you new ideas for quick and easy meals. You’ll find options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Whether you want comfort food or healthy choices, there’s something for everyone. Try these recipes to spice up your cooking routine and make the most of this budget-friendly meat.

1. Classic Pork Meatballs

Pork meatballs are a tasty dish you can make in just 30 minutes. They’re juicy, flavorful, and perfect for many meals.

To make them, mix ground pork with spices like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. You can add dried herbs like thyme for extra flavor.

Shape the mixture into small balls. Bake them in a 400°F oven for about 20 minutes until cooked through.

Serve your pork meatballs with pasta and marinara sauce for a quick Italian-style dinner. Or try them in sandwiches, with rice, or alongside a green bean casserole.

2. Spicy Pork Stir-Fry

Spicy pork stir-fry is a quick and tasty meal you can make in about 30 minutes. It uses ground pork, which cooks fast and soaks up flavors well.

The dish often includes veggies like peppers, onions, and garlic. Ginger adds a nice kick. For heat, you can use Thai chiles or gochujang sauce.

You can serve this stir-fry over rice or noodles. For a lighter option, try mixing in some cauliflower rice.

This recipe is great for busy nights or meal prep. It’s full of flavor and easy to customize based on what you like or have on hand.

3. Pork and Vegetable Dumplings

Pork and vegetable dumplings are a tasty dish you can make at home. To start, mix ground pork with minced vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and scallions.

Add flavor with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Place small amounts of the filling onto wonton wrappers and fold to seal.

You can cook the dumplings by boiling, steaming, or pan-frying. For pan-frying, brown the bottoms first, then add water and cover to steam.

Serve your homemade dumplings hot with a dipping sauce. They make a great appetizer or main dish.

4. Ground Pork Bolognese

Ground pork bolognese is a tasty twist on the classic Italian sauce. It’s a rich and hearty dish that’s perfect for pasta night.

To make it, start by browning ground pork in a large pan. Add finely chopped onions, carrots, and celery for extra flavor and texture.

Garlic is a must-have ingredient. Use 2-3 minced cloves to give your sauce a nice kick. Pour in some red wine and let it simmer down.

Next, stir in tomato paste and crushed tomatoes. Let the sauce cook for at least 30 minutes to develop its flavors. Serve over your favorite pasta for a comforting meal.

5. Chili Pork Tacos

Chili pork tacos offer a tasty twist on traditional taco night. You’ll start by browning ground pork in a skillet. Then add diced tomatoes, onions, and spices like chili powder and garlic powder.

Let the mixture simmer until the flavors meld together. Warm up some flour tortillas or hard taco shells. Spoon the savory pork filling into each shell.

Top your tacos with shredded cheese, sour cream, or other favorite toppings. The combination of spices gives these tacos a nice kick without being too hot.

It’s an easy weeknight meal that comes together in about 30 minutes.

6. Thai Pork Larb

Thai Pork Larb is a flavorful salad that’s easy to make. You’ll need ground pork, shallots, garlic, and Thai chiles.

Mix in fish sauce, lime juice, and toasted rice powder for authentic taste. Add fresh herbs like mint and cilantro for brightness.

Serve your larb with sticky rice or lettuce wraps. It’s great for hot days when you want something light but filling.

You can adjust the spice level by changing the amount of chili flakes. For a twist, try using ground chicken or beef instead of pork.

7. Pork Lettuce Wraps

Pork lettuce wraps are a tasty and light meal option. You can make them in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.

Start by browning ground pork in a pan. Mix in crunchy veggies and a tangy sauce for extra flavor.

Serve the pork mixture in cool, crisp lettuce leaves. Bibb lettuce works well as a wrap.

For added kick, try making a dipping sauce. Mix hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and rice vinegar in a small bowl.

These wraps are versatile. You can adjust the spice level to your liking. Add sriracha or red pepper flakes for heat.

8. Stuffed Bell Peppers with Pork

Stuffed bell peppers with pork are a tasty and easy meal. You can make them in about 30 minutes.

Start by cooking ground pork with onions, garlic, and spices.

While the pork cooks, cut bell peppers in half and remove the seeds. Mix the cooked pork with rice and tomato paste. Stuff the mixture into the pepper halves.

Top the peppers with shredded cheese. Bake them in a 400°F oven for about 35 minutes.

This dish is great for using up leftover rice.

You can change up the recipe by adding different veggies or spices to the filling. Stuffed peppers are a fun way to enjoy ground pork in a colorful, healthy meal.

9. Ground Pork Pizza Topping

Ground pork makes a tasty pizza topping. To prepare it, brown the pork in a pan and drain any excess fat. Add some onions and garlic for extra flavor.

You can mix the cooked pork with marinara sauce and spices like oregano or red pepper flakes. Spread this mixture over pizza dough before baking.

For a spicier version, try adding gochujang sauce to your marinara. This gives the pork topping a nice kick.

Ground pork pizza is filling and protein-packed. It pairs well with veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms. You can also combine it with other meats for a heartier pizza.

10. Savory Pork Shepherd’s Pie

You can make a tasty twist on classic shepherd’s pie using ground pork. Start by browning the pork with onions, carrots, and celery in a skillet.

Add minced garlic, dried thyme, and flour to thicken the mixture. Pour in some broth and let it simmer until bubbly.

For the topping, whip mashed potatoes with butter, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Spread this over the pork filling in a baking dish.

Bake until the potato topping is golden brown and crispy. This hearty pork shepherd’s pie is perfect for cold winter nights.

11. Pork Cabbage Rolls

Pork cabbage rolls are a tasty and filling dish. You start by boiling cabbage leaves until they’re soft enough to roll.

For the filling, mix ground pork with eggs, salt, and pepper. Scoop the mixture onto each cabbage leaf and roll it up.

Place the rolls in a pot and pour tomato sauce over them. Let them simmer until the pork is cooked through and the flavors blend.

You can also add rice to the filling for extra texture. Some recipes include onions, garlic, or herbs for more flavor.

These rolls are great for a family dinner or potluck. They’re easy to make ahead and reheat well.

12. Ginger Pork Potstickers

Ginger pork potstickers are tasty dumplings filled with ground pork and ginger. You can make these at home with a few simple ingredients.

Mix ground pork with minced ginger, garlic, and green onions. Add soy sauce and sesame oil for flavor.

Place a small amount of filling on each wonton wrapper. Fold and seal the edges to form the potsticker shape.

Cook the potstickers by pan-frying and steaming. This gives them a crispy bottom and soft top. Serve with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce and vinegar.

These potstickers freeze well, so you can make extra for quick meals later. They’re perfect as an appetizer or main dish.

13. Pork and Eggplant Stir-Fry

Pork and eggplant stir-fry is a tasty dish that’s quick to make. You’ll love how the tender eggplant pairs with savory ground pork.

To make it, start by cooking the pork in a hot pan until it’s browned. Add chopped garlic, ginger, and chili for extra flavor.

Next, toss in cubed eggplant and stir-fry until it softens. Pour in a sauce made from soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a touch of sugar.

Cook everything together until the eggplant is tender and the sauce coats the ingredients. Serve your stir-fry hot over rice for a filling meal.

14. Pork and Bean Chili

Pork and bean chili is a hearty dish that’s perfect for cold days. It’s quick to make and packed with flavor.

You can use ground pork as the base for this chili. Cook it with onions until the meat is no longer pink.

Add beans, tomatoes, and chili powder to the cooked pork. Let the mixture simmer to blend the flavors.

This chili is versatile. You can add different vegetables or types of beans to suit your taste.

Serve your pork and bean chili with toppings like cheese, sour cream, or green onions. It’s great with tortilla chips too.

15. Vietnamese Pork Banh Mi

Banh mi is a tasty Vietnamese sandwich that uses ground pork as its star ingredient. You can make this delicious meal at home in about 20 minutes.

Start by cooking seasoned ground pork in a pan. While it cooks, prepare pickled vegetables like carrots and daikon radish.

Spread mayo and sriracha on a crispy French baguette. Add the cooked pork and top with pickled veggies, cilantro, and cucumber slices.

This sandwich offers a perfect mix of flavors and textures. The meat is savory, the veggies are tangy, and the bread is crunchy. It’s a satisfying meal that’s quick to make and fun to eat.

16. Italian Pork Sausage

Italian pork sausage is a flavorful way to use ground pork. You can make it at home with just a few ingredients.

Mix ground pork with salt, black pepper, and fennel seeds for classic Italian flavor.

Add some crushed red pepper flakes if you like it spicy. Garlic powder and dried parsley are tasty additions too. Blend the spices well with the meat.

You can cook the sausage right away or form it into patties. It’s great in pasta dishes, on pizza, or with peppers and onions. Homemade sausage keeps in the fridge for a few days or freezes well for later use.

17. Pork Stuffed Mushrooms

Pork stuffed mushrooms are a tasty appetizer or snack. To make them, you’ll need mushrooms, ground pork, and some simple ingredients.

Start by cleaning the mushrooms and removing the stems. Chop up the stems and set them aside. Cook the ground pork in a pan until it’s browned.

Mix the cooked pork with cream cheese, mozzarella, and seasonings. You can add garlic, onion, or herbs for extra flavor. Spoon this mixture into the mushroom caps.

Sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top. Bake the stuffed mushrooms in the oven at 350°F until they’re hot and the cheese is melted. Serve them warm as a delicious treat.

18. Pork Fried Rice

Pork fried rice is a tasty and quick meal you can make at home. It’s perfect for using up leftover rice and pork.

To make it, start by cooking ground pork in a hot pan. Add veggies like peas and carrots for color and crunch.

Next, toss in your cooked rice. Mix in soy sauce, sesame oil, and scallions for flavor. Some recipes also use hoisin sauce or honey for extra taste.

Don’t forget to add scrambled eggs. They’re a key part of fried rice. Stir everything together and serve hot.

This dish is easy to customize. You can add your favorite veggies or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.

19. Korean Pork Bibimbap

Korean pork bibimbap is a tasty and colorful dish. You mix rice, veggies, and seasoned ground pork in a bowl.

To make it, cook your rice first. While that’s happening, fry up some ground pork with gochujang paste. This gives it a spicy kick.

Next, prepare your veggie toppings. Common choices are carrots, spinach, and bean sprouts. Cook each separately and season them lightly.

When everything’s ready, put rice in a bowl. Add the pork and veggies on top in separate sections. A fried egg often goes on too.

Mix it all up before you eat. The flavors blend together for a delicious meal.

20. Homemade Pork Spring Rolls

Pork spring rolls are a tasty treat you can make at home. Mix ground pork with shredded cabbage, carrots, and onions for the filling. Add garlic, ginger, and seasonings like oyster sauce for extra flavor.

Cook the pork mixture in a pan until the meat is browned. Let it cool before wrapping in spring roll wrappers. Roll them tightly to keep the filling inside.

You can fry the rolls in oil for a crispy texture. For a healthier option, bake them in the oven at 425°F (220°C) until golden brown. Serve your homemade pork spring rolls hot with a dipping sauce of your choice.

21. Pork Ragu Pasta

Pork ragu pasta is a tasty and satisfying dish you can make for a quick weeknight dinner. It combines ground pork with tomatoes, herbs, and pasta for a hearty meal.

To make it, start by cooking onions and garlic in a pan. Add ground pork and cook until browned. Pour in crushed tomatoes and season with basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes.

Let the sauce simmer while you cook your pasta. Pappardelle or penne work well for this dish.

Once the pasta is ready, mix it with the pork ragu sauce.

Serve your pork ragu pasta hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil. This simple yet flavorful meal will please the whole family.

22. Pork and Ricotta Meatballs

Pork and ricotta meatballs offer a delicious twist on classic meatballs. You’ll love their tender texture and rich flavor.

To make them, mix ground pork with creamy ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and eggs. Add herbs like parsley and oregano for extra taste.

Shape the mixture into balls and bake them in a hot oven until browned. This method is easier and healthier than frying.

Serve these meatballs with tomato sauce over pasta or in sandwiches. They’re perfect for family dinners or party appetizers.

23. Teriyaki Pork Bowls

Teriyaki pork bowls are a tasty and quick meal you can make at home. They’re perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

To make these bowls, start by cooking ground pork in a pan. Add teriyaki sauce, ginger, and garlic for flavor. Serve the pork over a bed of steamed rice.

You can add veggies like stir-fried broccoli, carrots, or snap peas to make the bowl more colorful and nutritious. For extra flavor, drizzle some extra teriyaki sauce on top.

These bowls are easy to customize. You can use brown rice instead of white, or add pineapple chunks for a sweet twist. Sprinkle some sesame seeds or chopped green onions on top for a nice finishing touch.

24. Pork Pad Thai

Pork Pad Thai is a tasty twist on the classic Thai dish. You can make it at home in about 30 minutes.

Start by soaking rice noodles in warm water for 30 minutes. While they soak, cook sliced pork in a hot pan until browned.

Next, stir-fry garlic, shallots, and beaten eggs. Add the drained noodles and pork back to the pan. Pour in a sauce made from fish sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar.

Top your Pad Thai with chopped peanuts, bean sprouts, and lime wedges. This quick meal brings Thai flavors right to your kitchen table.

25. Maple Glazed Pork Burgers

Maple glazed pork burgers offer a tasty twist on classic hamburgers. To make them, mix ground pork with minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into patties about 1 inch thick.

For the glaze, combine maple syrup with Dijon mustard.

Grill the patties for 7-9 minutes per side, brushing them with the maple glaze as they cook.

Serve your burgers on buns with thinly sliced tart apples and crumbled blue cheese. The sweet maple flavor pairs well with the savory pork and tangy cheese. You can also add caramelized onions for extra depth.

26. Pork Tacos al Pastor

Pork tacos al pastor blend savory and sweet flavors. You can make them with ground pork for a quick meal.

Start by mixing ground pork with pineapple, chili powder, and cumin. Cook the meat in a skillet until browned.

Warm some tortillas and fill them with the pork mixture. Top with diced onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.

For extra flavor, add a simple pineapple salsa. Chop fresh pineapple and mix it with red onion and jalapeño.

Serve your tacos hot with the salsa on top. These tasty tacos make a great weeknight dinner option.

27. Pork and Lentil Soup

Pork and lentil soup is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for cold days. You’ll love how the ground pork adds rich flavor to the lentils and vegetables.

To make this soup, start by browning ground pork in a large pot. Add diced onions, garlic, and your choice of vegetables like carrots and celery.

Stir in dried lentils, broth, and seasonings like cumin and basil. Let the soup simmer for about 30-40 minutes until the lentils are tender.

For extra nutrition, you can toss in some fresh spinach near the end of cooking. Serve your pork and lentil soup hot with crusty bread on the side.

28. Pork Quesadillas

Pork quesadillas are a tasty and simple meal you can whip up quickly. They combine crispy tortillas with savory ground pork and melted cheese.

To make them, cook ground pork in a skillet with onions, garlic, and spices. Spread the cooked pork mixture on one half of a tortilla and top with shredded cheese.

Fold the tortilla and cook in a hot pan until golden and crispy on both sides. The cheese will melt and hold everything together.

You can customize your quesadillas with added ingredients like beans, corn, or diced peppers. Serve them with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for dipping.

29. Sweet and Sour Pork Balls

Sweet and sour pork balls are a tasty twist on traditional meatballs. You can make them using ground pork, breadcrumbs, and seasonings.

Mix these ingredients with an egg yolk to bind everything together. Shape the mixture into small balls, about golf ball size.

Cook the meatballs in a skillet until golden brown.

For the sauce, combine ingredients like vinegar, sugar, ketchup, and pineapple juice.

Simmer the sauce until it thickens, then pour it over the meatballs. Serve these flavorful pork balls over rice for a satisfying meal.

30. Garlic Ginger Pork

Garlic ginger pork is a tasty and quick meal you can make with ground pork. The combination of garlic and ginger gives the dish a bold, aromatic flavor.

To make it, cook ground pork in a pan with minced garlic, grated ginger, and seasonings like soy sauce. You can add diced vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra texture and nutrition.

Serve the garlic ginger pork over steamed rice for a satisfying dinner. Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh finish. This versatile recipe works well for busy weeknights when you need a fast, flavorful meal.

Nutritional Insights

Ground pork offers a mix of nutrients that can fit into many diets. It provides protein and fats, along with some key vitamins and minerals. Let’s look at the details of what ground pork brings to your meals.

Calories and Macronutrients

Ground pork is a calorie-dense food. A 4-ounce (112g) serving has about 210 calories. This serving size gives you a good amount of protein, about 20 grams.

The fat content is higher, making up 60% of the calories. A 4-ounce portion has 14 grams of fat. Of this, 5 grams are saturated fat.

Ground pork has no carbs. This makes it a good choice for low-carb diets. You can pair it with veggies or whole grains to make a balanced meal.

Vitamins and Minerals

Ground pork adds more than just protein to your diet. It’s a good source of B vitamins, which help your body make energy. You’ll get vitamin B12, niacin, and thiamin from pork.

This meat also gives you minerals. Iron helps carry oxygen in your blood. Zinc supports your immune system. Selenium acts as an antioxidant in your body.

Pork does lack vitamin C. To round out your meal, add fruits or veggies high in this vitamin. This will help your body absorb the iron from the pork better.

Cooking Techniques

Ground pork is versatile and easy to cook. It can be prepared in many ways to create delicious meals. The key is to cook it thoroughly and use the right methods.

Browning and Searing

Browning ground pork adds flavor and texture. Heat a pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil. Put the pork in the pan. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks. Stir often until the meat is no longer pink. This usually takes 5-7 minutes.

For extra flavor, let some pieces brown without stirring. This creates a tasty crust. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed. Drain excess fat after cooking.

Use browned ground pork in tacos, pasta sauces, or on pizza.

Simmering and Stewing

Simmering and stewing are great for tender, flavorful ground pork. Brown the meat first. Then add liquid like broth or tomato sauce.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer. Cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring now and then.

The pork will soak up flavors from the liquid and other ingredients. This method works well for soups, chilis, and meat sauces.

Add veggies or beans during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. Season with herbs and spices for extra taste.