Ground pork is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many tasty dishes. It’s affordable, easy to cook with, and pairs well with different flavors and cuisines.

From comfort food classics to global-inspired meals, ground pork offers lots of options for quick and delicious dinners.

You’ll find plenty of inspiring ideas in these 31+ ground pork recipes. They include everything from hearty pasta sauces and stuffed vegetables to Asian-style stir-fries and Mexican-inspired tacos.

With so many choices, you can try a new ground pork dish almost every day of the month. These recipes will help you make the most of this budget-friendly meat in creative and flavorful ways.

1. Spicy Szechuan Ground Pork

Spicy Szechuan ground pork is a tasty dish that packs a punch. You’ll love the bold flavors and heat in this recipe.

Start by heating oil in a skillet. Add ground pork and cook until browned.

Mix in garlic, ginger, and chili flakes for extra kick.

The key to this dish is the Szechuan sauce. It blends soy sauce, rice wine, and spices.

Pour it over the pork and let it simmer.

Serve your spicy Szechuan pork over rice or noodles. Add some green beans or vegetables for crunch. This meal is quick to make and full of flavor.

2. Herbed Pork and Mushroom Ragu

This comforting dish combines ground pork and mushrooms in a rich, savory sauce.

Start by browning the pork in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture.

Stir in minced garlic, dried herbs like thyme and rosemary, and crushed tomatoes.

Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes. The herbs will infuse the sauce with flavor as it thickens.

Serve your ragu over pasta, polenta, or crusty bread for a satisfying meal.

You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the herbs to your taste. It’s a versatile dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

3. Ground Pork Stuffed Peppers

Ground pork stuffed peppers are a tasty and easy dinner option. You can make them in about 30 minutes.

Start by cutting bell peppers in half and removing the seeds.

Mix ground pork with cooked rice, onions, garlic, and spices.

Fill the pepper halves with the pork mixture. Top with shredded cheese if you like.

Bake the stuffed peppers in a 400°F oven for about 35 minutes.

You can use any color bell peppers you prefer. Try different rice types to change up the flavor. Add vegetables like mushrooms or tomatoes to the filling for more variety.

4. Thai Basil Pork Stir-Fry

Thai Basil Pork Stir-Fry is a tasty dish you can make in about 20 minutes. It uses ground pork, Thai basil, and a flavorful sauce.

To make it, you fry garlic and chili in oil. Then add the pork and cook it while breaking it up.

Next, add sauce ingredients like fish sauce and soy sauce.

The key ingredient is Thai basil, which gives the dish its unique taste.

You can serve it over rice with a fried egg on top for a complete meal.

This stir-fry is spicy, savory, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. You can also try it with ground chicken or beef if you prefer.

5. Pork and Cabbage Stir-Fried Noodles

This tasty dish combines ground pork, cabbage, and noodles for a quick and satisfying meal.

Start by boiling your noodles according to package directions.

Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chopped cabbage and cook until it starts to brown at the edges.

Next, add ground pork to the pan and cook until browned.

Mix in garlic and the white parts of green onions for extra flavor.

Make a simple sauce with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and rice vinegar.

Pour it over the pork and cabbage mixture, then toss in the cooked noodles.

Stir everything together until well combined and heated through. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade pork and cabbage stir-fried noodles.

6. Ground Pork Tacos with Lime

Ground pork tacos with lime are a tasty and quick meal option.

Start by browning ground pork in a skillet over medium heat. Add taco seasoning and cook until the meat is done.

Warm soft tortillas in the oven or microwave.

Fill them with the seasoned pork. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and cheese.

Squeeze fresh lime juice over the tacos for a zesty kick. Add a dollop of sour cream or guacamole if you like.

Serve with extra lime wedges on the side.

These tacos are perfect for busy weeknights. You can prepare the toppings while the pork cooks. Enjoy your flavorful homemade tacos!

7. Vietnamese Pork Meatballs

Vietnamese pork meatballs are a tasty and versatile dish. You can make them with ground pork, garlic, fish sauce, and herbs.

Mix the ingredients and shape them into golf ball-sized portions. These meatballs are often grilled for extra flavor.

You can serve them in different ways. Try them with rice noodles, lettuce, and herbs for a refreshing meal.

A dipping sauce made with vinegar, sugar, and spices adds more flavor. Some recipes include pickled vegetables as a side dish.

These meatballs are soft and juicy. They work well in sandwiches like banh mi too. You can also freeze them for later use.

8. Pork and Kimchi Dumplings

Pork and kimchi dumplings are a tasty fusion dish. You can make them at home with a few key ingredients.

Mix ground pork, chopped kimchi, and seasonings for the filling. Wrap small amounts in dumpling wrappers.

You can cook these dumplings by steaming, boiling, or pan-frying.

Serve them with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar.

These dumplings freeze well. Make a big batch and save some for later. Just pop them in the freezer on a tray, then bag them up once frozen.

9. Spicy Pork and Peanut Noodles

This tasty dish combines ground pork with a flavorful peanut sauce.

You’ll brown the pork in a pan until it’s crispy and golden.

While the pork cooks, you can prepare the noodles according to package instructions.

Mix peanut butter, vinegar, and water to create a simple sauce.

Toss the cooked noodles and pork with the peanut sauce. Add a splash of cooking water if needed to coat everything evenly.

Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving for extra crunch. This meal comes together quickly and offers a perfect balance of spicy and savory flavors.

10. Pork and Zucchini Stir-Fry

Pork and zucchini stir-fry is a quick and tasty meal you can make in under 20 minutes.

Ground pork is the star of this dish, offering a rich flavor and tender texture.

Zucchini adds a fresh crunch and balances out the meat. You can easily customize this stir-fry by adding other veggies like carrots or mushrooms.

For extra flavor, try adding sweet Thai chili sauce or a mix of soy sauce and garlic.

Cook everything in a hot wok or large frying pan for the best results.

This meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something fast and filling. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete dinner.

11. Ground Pork and Quinoa Salad

This dish combines the heartiness of ground pork with the nutritious benefits of quinoa.

Start by cooking the quinoa according to package instructions.

While it cools, brown the ground pork in a pan. Add your favorite seasonings for extra flavor.

Mix the cooked quinoa and pork in a large bowl. Add fresh vegetables like diced tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers for crunch and color.

For dressing, try a simple mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs.

Toss everything together and serve on a bed of lettuce for a filling and healthy meal.

This salad is high in protein and fiber, making it a great choice for lunch or dinner.

12. Pork and Apple Sausage Rolls

Pork and apple sausage rolls are a tasty treat that combines savory and sweet flavors.

You’ll need ground pork, grated apple, and puff pastry for this recipe.

Mix the pork with diced apple, chopped onion, minced garlic, and breadcrumbs. Add some sage, thyme, and nutmeg for extra flavor.

Roll out the puff pastry and shape the pork mixture into a long sausage on top. Wrap the pastry around the filling and seal the edges.

Cut the long roll into smaller pieces. Brush with beaten egg for a golden finish.

Bake until the pastry is crisp and the pork is cooked through.

These sausage rolls are great for parties or as a snack. You can serve them hot or cold with your favorite dipping sauce.

13. Korean Pork Lettuce Wraps

Korean Pork Lettuce Wraps offer a tasty and light meal option. You’ll love the mix of flavors and textures in this dish.

Start by marinating ground pork in a blend of soy sauce, Gochujang (Korean chili paste), honey, and ginger. This gives the meat a rich, spicy-sweet flavor.

Cook the marinated pork in a pan until it’s browned and crispy.

Serve it in crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing crunch.

Add some rice, sliced vegetables, and extra sauce on the side. This lets you customize each wrap to your liking.

These wraps are quick to make and perfect for a fun, hands-on dinner. They’re also great for parties or casual get-togethers.

14. Ground Pork Chili with Beans

Ground pork chili with beans is a hearty and flavorful meal. This dish combines ground pork with kidney and pinto beans for a satisfying texture.

To make it, brown the ground pork with onions and garlic in a large pot.

Add canned tomatoes, beans, and your favorite chili spices.

Let the chili simmer for at least 20 minutes to blend the flavors. The longer it cooks, the better it tastes.

You can customize this chili with different vegetables or types of peppers.

It’s a flexible recipe that allows you to adjust the heat and ingredients to your liking.

This chili freezes well, making it great for meal prep. You can enjoy it on its own or serve it with toppings like cheese or sour cream.

15. Ground Pork Banh Mi Sandwich

Ground pork adds a delicious twist to the classic Vietnamese banh mi sandwich. You can make this tasty treat in just 20 minutes.

Start by seasoning the pork with soy sauce, fish sauce, and minced garlic.

Cook the pork in a pan until browned. While it cooks, prepare pickled veggies like carrots and daikon radish.

Slice a French baguette and spread mayo mixed with sriracha on both sides.

Fill the sandwich with the cooked pork, pickled veggies, and fresh cilantro.

For extra flavor, add sliced jalapeños or cucumbers. This ground pork banh mi is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

16. Pork and Eggplant Stir-Fry

Pork and eggplant stir-fry is a tasty dish that’s quick to make. You’ll need ground pork, eggplant, and a few simple ingredients.

Start by cooking the ground pork in a skillet until it’s brown. Add minced garlic and ginger for extra flavor.

Cut the eggplant into bite-sized pieces and add it to the skillet. Cook until the eggplant is soft and slightly browned.

Mix in soy sauce and oyster sauce to create a savory flavor.

You can also add a pinch of black pepper for some heat.

Stir everything together and cook for a few more minutes. This lets all the flavors blend nicely.

17. Tex-Mex Pork Enchiladas

Tex-Mex pork enchiladas are a tasty twist on a classic dish. You can use ground pork as the main protein for a budget-friendly meal.

Start by browning the pork in a skillet. Add onions and garlic, cooking until soft.

Mix in your favorite Tex-Mex spices for extra flavor.

Fill tortillas with the pork mixture and roll them up. Place them in a baking dish and top with enchilada sauce and cheese.

Bake until the cheese melts and bubbles. Serve your pork enchiladas hot, topped with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream.

This meal is great for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. You can even prepare it ahead of time and reheat when ready to eat.

18. Mediterranean Pork Pitas

Mediterranean pork pitas are a tasty and easy meal option. You can make them using ground pork seasoned with herbs and spices like oregano, garlic, and lemon juice.

Cook the pork in a skillet until browned. Warm up some pita bread in the oven or toaster.

Fill the pitas with the cooked pork, along with toppings like tzatziki sauce, diced tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese. Add some sliced red onion and fresh parsley for extra flavor.

These pitas are great for lunch or dinner. You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time for quick assembly.

Serve them with a side of crispy potatoes or a Greek salad for a full meal.

19. Pork and Shrimp Wontons

Pork and shrimp wontons are a tasty Chinese dish you can make at home. Mix ground pork with chopped shrimp for the filling. Add scallions, garlic, and ginger for flavor.

Season the mixture with soy sauce, rice wine, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Some recipes include sugar or oyster sauce too.

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

You can boil the wontons in soup or fry them for a crispy texture.

Serve with a dipping sauce like spicy peanut sauce or chili oil. These wontons make a great appetizer or main dish.

20. Ground Pork Quesadillas

Ground pork quesadillas are a tasty and easy meal option. You can make them in just a few simple steps.

Start by cooking ground pork in a skillet. Add chili seasoning, beans, and corn for extra flavor.

Once the pork is cooked, place it on tortillas with cheese. Fold the tortillas in half and cook them in a pan or on a griddle.

You can serve your quesadillas with guacamole, refried beans, or cilantro lime rice on the side. These additions will make your meal even more filling and delicious.

Ground pork quesadillas are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. They’re also great for feeding a crowd.

21. Pork and Spinach Lasagna

Pork and spinach lasagna is a tasty twist on the classic Italian dish. You’ll love how the ground pork adds richness and flavor.

Start by cooking the pork with onions, carrots, and garlic. Break up the meat as it browns. Add your favorite tomato sauce and let it simmer.

In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with Parmesan and chopped parsley. This creamy layer will balance the meaty sauce.

Layer the lasagna noodles, meat sauce, ricotta mix, and spinach in a baking dish. Repeat until you use all ingredients. Top with mozzarella cheese.

Bake until the cheese melts and turns golden. Let it cool slightly before serving.

This hearty lasagna is perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

22. Savory Pork and Fennel Pie

This hearty pie combines ground pork with aromatic fennel for a delicious meal. You’ll start by making a flaky pastry with flour, seeds, and butter. Chill the dough while preparing the filling.

Brown the ground pork in a pan. Add diced fennel, onions, and garlic. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs like sage or thyme. Let the mixture cool slightly.

Roll out the pastry and line a pie dish. Fill with the pork and fennel mixture. Top with another layer of pastry, sealing the edges. Cut a few slits in the top to let steam escape.

Bake until the crust is golden brown and the filling is hot. Let it rest before slicing.

Serve with a side salad for a satisfying dinner.

23. Ground Pork Fried Rice

Ground pork fried rice is a quick and tasty meal you can make in just 15 minutes. It’s even better than takeout!

You’ll need cold white rice, eggs, ground pork, and frozen peas. The cold rice helps prevent sticking. Use 80/20 ground pork for the best flavor.

To make it, cook the ground pork first. Then scramble the eggs.

Add the rice and veggies, and stir in soy sauce and sesame oil.

This dish is very flexible. Feel free to add your favorite frozen veggies for extra color and crunch. Carrots work great too.

24. Lemongrass Pork Sliders

Lemongrass pork sliders are a tasty twist on classic burgers. They blend juicy ground pork with fragrant lemongrass and other Asian-inspired flavors.

To make these sliders, mix ground pork with minced lemongrass, garlic, ginger, and spices. Form small patties and grill or pan-fry them until cooked through.

Serve your sliders on mini buns with a zesty carrot-daikon slaw. The crunchy vegetables complement the savory pork perfectly.

These sliders are great for parties or as a fun weeknight dinner.

Pair them with a cold beer or refreshing lemonade for a satisfying meal.

25. Pork and Bok Choy Soup

This tasty soup combines tender ground pork with crisp bok choy for a light and flavorful meal. Start by browning the pork in a large pot. Add chicken broth, ginger, and garlic for extra flavor.

Slice the bok choy and add it to the simmering broth. The leafy greens will wilt quickly while the stems stay crunchy. Season with soy sauce and a splash of rice vinegar to taste.

For extra texture, you can top your soup with sliced scallions and sesame seeds.

This simple yet satisfying soup comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

26. Sage and Pork Sausage Patties

Sage and pork sausage patties are a tasty breakfast treat you can make at home. Start with ground pork and mix in dried sage, salt, and black pepper.

Add some garlic powder and onion powder for extra flavor. You can also include a touch of maple syrup for sweetness.

Shape the mixture into small patties. Cook them in a skillet over medium heat until they’re browned on both sides and cooked through.

These homemade patties taste better than store-bought ones. You can adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.

Serve them with eggs and hash browns for a filling breakfast.

27. Ground Pork Curry with Lentils

Ground pork curry with lentils is a tasty and filling dish. You can make it easily in a slow cooker or on the stove.

To start, brown the ground pork in a pan. Add chopped onions, minced garlic, and spices like cumin, curry powder, and turmeric.

Mix in dried lentils and coconut milk. Let everything simmer until the lentils are soft and the flavors blend.

You can add veggies like carrots or cauliflower for extra nutrition. Serve this curry over rice for a complete meal.

This recipe is flexible. You can adjust the spices to your taste or swap the pork for tofu to make it vegetarian.

28. Creamy Pork and Sage Pasta

This quick and tasty dish combines ground pork with pasta in a creamy sauce. You can have it ready in about 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Start by cooking your pasta of choice. While it cooks, brown the ground pork in a pan. Add fresh sage leaves for a bright, herbal flavor.

Mix in some heavy cream to create a rich sauce. Toss the cooked pasta with the pork and cream mixture. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

This simple recipe is easy to customize. Try adding spinach for extra nutrients or swap in different herbs if you prefer.

It’s a versatile meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

29. Ground Pork Spring Rolls

Ground pork spring rolls are a tasty appetizer or snack. You can bake or fry them for a crunchy outside and flavorful inside.

Mix ground pork with veggies like carrots, cabbage, and bamboo shoots. Add seasonings such as ginger, garlic, oyster sauce, and soy sauce for extra flavor.

Wrap the filling in spring roll wrappers. Seal the edges with a bit of water.

Bake or fry until golden brown and crispy.

Serve your pork spring rolls hot with a dipping sauce. Sweet chili sauce or peanut sauce work well. These rolls are perfect for parties or as a fun family meal.

30. Pork and Green Bean Stir-Fry

Pork and green bean stir-fry is a quick and tasty meal. You can make it in about 10 minutes.

Use ground pork for this dish. An 80/20 blend works well. Trim fresh green beans and cut them into bite-sized pieces.

Cook the pork first until it’s no longer pink. Then add the green beans to the pan. Stir-fry them until they’re charred but still crisp.

For flavor, add garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. You can also include bell peppers or chilies if you like spice.

This stir-fry is low in calories and high in taste. It’s perfect for a fast weeknight dinner.

31. Thai Larb with Pork

Thai larb is a tasty meat salad that’s popular in Thailand. It’s made with ground pork and lots of herbs and spices.

To make larb, cook ground pork in a pan. Add fish sauce, lime juice, and chili flakes for flavor. Mix in chopped shallots, mint leaves, and cilantro.

The key ingredient is toasted rice powder. It gives the dish a nutty taste and slight crunch. You can make it by dry roasting rice and crushing it.

Serve larb with sticky rice and lettuce leaves. It’s a refreshing dish that’s great for hot days. You can adjust the spice level to your liking.

Health Benefits of Ground Pork

Ground pork offers several nutritional benefits as part of a balanced diet. It provides protein, vitamins, and minerals that support various body functions.

Nutritional Value

Ground pork contains important nutrients your body needs. It’s a good source of B vitamins, especially thiamin, niacin, and vitamin B12. These help your body turn food into energy and keep your nervous system working well.

Ground pork also gives you minerals like zinc, selenium, and phosphorus. Zinc helps your immune system. Selenium acts as an antioxidant. Phosphorus is key for strong bones and teeth.

A 3-ounce serving of cooked ground pork has about 200 calories. It provides 22 grams of protein and 13 grams of fat. The fat content can vary based on how lean the meat is.

Protein Content

Ground pork is high in protein. A 3-ounce portion gives you about 22 grams of complete protein. This means it has all the essential amino acids your body can’t make on its own.

Protein is vital for:

• Building and repairing tissues
• Making enzymes and hormones
• Supporting bone health
• Helping you feel full

Your body uses the protein in ground pork to maintain muscle mass. This is especially important as you age. Eating enough protein can also help with weight management by boosting your metabolism.

Cooking Techniques for Ground Pork

Ground pork is a versatile meat that can be cooked in many ways. The key is using the right method and spices to bring out its best flavors.

Browning Method

To brown ground pork, start with a hot pan. Add the meat in small batches.

Don’t overcrowd the pan or the pork will steam instead of brown. Break up large chunks with a spatula as it cooks.

Cook the pork over medium-high heat. Stir often until no pink remains. This usually takes 5-7 minutes per batch.

Drain excess fat if needed.

For extra flavor, brown some chopped onions and garlic in the pan before adding the pork. You can also deglaze the pan with broth or wine after browning to capture all the tasty bits.

Best Spices to Use

Ground pork pairs well with many spices and herbs. Salt and black pepper are basics that enhance its natural flavor.

Garlic powder and onion powder add savory notes.

For Italian dishes, try oregano, basil, and fennel seeds. Cumin, chili powder, and oregano work great for Mexican-inspired meals.

Ginger, five-spice powder, and soy sauce create Asian flavors.

Don’t be afraid to experiment. Smoked paprika, thyme, or sage can add depth.

A pinch of red pepper flakes brings heat.

Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley brighten the dish when added at the end of cooking.