26 pork recipes you’re probably not making (but should)

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Pork is one of the most versatile meats out there, but most of us stick to the same few recipes on repeat. If you’re ready to mix things up, these pork dishes will bring new flavors, easy prep, and a little excitement to your meals. Whether you’re looking for quick weeknight options or something special, these recipes prove there’s so much more to pork than you might think.

A bowl of bacon-wrapped cocktail sausages served on a bed of fresh green herbs.
Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Navy Bean and Ham Soup

A bowl of bean soup with chunks of ham and diced vegetables, served in a rustic terracotta bowl with a spoon on the side.
Navy Bean and Ham Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This hearty soup is packed with tender beans and smoky ham, making it a great way to use leftover pork in a comforting meal. It simmers to perfection, creating a warm and filling dish that’s great for cold days. The simple ingredients come together easily, making this an easy meal to prepare in advance. Whether for lunch or dinner, it’s a satisfying option that works well for meal prep. If you’re looking for a pork-based soup that should be in your rotation, this is a great choice.
Get the Recipe: Navy Bean and Ham Soup

Pan-Fried Pork Chops

Pork chops on a plate with rosemary sprigs.
Pan-Fried Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

A quick-cooking dinner that brings out the best in pork, these pan-fried pork chops are crispy on the outside and juicy inside. They require just a few ingredients and cook up in minutes, making them perfect for busy nights. The golden-brown crust locks in the flavor without the need for extra effort. Pair them with mashed potatoes or vegetables for a meal that feels complete without much work. If you don’t have this classic pork dish in your lineup, now’s the time.
Get the Recipe: Pan-Fried Pork Chops

Breakfast Chorizo Burrito

A close-up image of a sliced breakfast burrito filled with seasoned meat and eggs served on a white plate with avocado slices and dipping sauce in the background.
Breakfast Chorizo Burrito. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Packed with seasoned chorizo, eggs, and cheese, this burrito is a protein-filled way to start the day. It comes together quickly and can even be made ahead of time for busy mornings. The bold flavors of chorizo add a kick, making breakfast more interesting than the usual options. Wrapped in a warm tortilla, it’s easy to take on the go or enjoy at home. If you haven’t added pork to your breakfast routine like this, you’re missing out.
Get the Recipe: Breakfast Chorizo Burrito

Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

A bowl of bacon-wrapped cocktail sausages served on a bed of fresh green herbs.
Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These bite-sized appetizers are packed with flavor thanks to smoky bacon wrapped around juicy little sausages. They crisp up beautifully in the oven, making them a great option for game days, parties, or casual snacking. The combination of salty and slightly sweet flavors makes them hard to resist. Since they’re so simple to prepare, they’re an easy choice when you need a crowd-pleasing snack. If you don’t already make these, you should.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple in Air Fryer

Bacon wrapped pineapple on a white plate.
Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

The balance of crispy bacon and caramelized pineapple makes this an easy appetizer or snack that stands out. Cooking them in the air fryer speeds up the process while making the bacon extra crispy. The mix of smoky and sweet flavors works well for parties, holiday spreads, or even as a quick side. With just a handful of ingredients, they’re simple to prepare but always get compliments. If you haven’t thought to pair pork and pineapple like this, it’s time to try.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple in Air Fryer

Oven Baked Pork Steaks

Oven baked pork steak on a plate with green beans and a fork on the side.
Oven Baked Pork Steaks. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These pork steaks cook low and slow in the oven, making them incredibly tender and full of flavor. They require little effort, making them perfect for a hands-off meal when you want something hearty. A simple seasoning or sauce enhances the natural richness of the pork without overpowering it. Serve with potatoes or rice for a dinner that feels like comfort food at its best. If you’re not making pork steaks yet, they deserve a spot on your table.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Pork Steaks

Golumpki Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Two cabbage rolls on a plate with fork.
Golumpki Stuffed Cabbage Rolls. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These classic stuffed cabbage rolls are filled with ground pork and rice, simmered in a rich tomato sauce until tender. They’re a great way to turn simple ingredients into a meal that feels special and comforting. The slow cooking process allows all the flavors to meld, making each bite hearty and satisfying. While they take a little time to assemble, the end result is well worth it. If you haven’t made these yet, you’re missing out on a traditional pork dish that’s always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Golumpki Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Ground Pork Stir Fry

A plate with ground pork and vegetables on top of cauliflower rice.
Ground Pork Stir Fry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This quick and easy stir fry turns ground pork into a flavorful meal with vegetables and a simple sauce. It’s ready in minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner fast. The combination of savory pork and crisp vegetables keeps things interesting without requiring extra effort. Serve it over rice or noodles for a meal that comes together in one pan. If you haven’t used ground pork in a stir fry yet, this is a great place to start.
Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Stir Fry

Slow Cooker Pork Loin in Crock Pot

Pork tenderloin on a cutting board next to a slow cooker.
Slow Cooker Pork Loin in Crock Pot. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This slow-cooked pork loin is incredibly tender and packed with flavor after hours of gentle cooking. It’s the kind of meal that requires little effort but feels like you spent all day on it. The pork stays juicy, making it perfect for slicing and serving with your favorite sides. Since it’s made in the slow cooker, it’s a great option for busy days when you still want a home-cooked meal. If you’re looking for an easy way to make pork the star of dinner, this is it.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Loin in Crock Pot

Hawaiian Roll Sliders

A close-up image of a platter of ham and cheese slider sandwiches sprinkled with poppy seeds and garnished with chopped herbs.
Hawaiian Roll Sliders. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These mini sandwiches are filled with pork and cheese, baked until warm and slightly crispy on top. The soft Hawaiian rolls soak up the flavors, making them a perfect choice for game days, parties, or casual dinners. They require minimal prep and cook up quickly, making them great when you need something fast. The combination of pork, melty cheese, and a buttery glaze makes them a go-to favorite. If you’re not already making pork sliders, you should be.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Roll Sliders

Ground Pork Tacos

Two pork tacos on a white plate with lime wedges.
Ground Pork Tacos. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These tacos turn ground pork into a flavorful, quick meal that works for any night of the week. The pork cooks up fast, making them a great choice when you need dinner on the table without much effort. With simple seasonings and your favorite toppings, they come together in minutes. Serve them in soft or crunchy shells for a meal that’s both easy and satisfying. If ground pork isn’t part of your taco routine yet, it should be.
Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Tacos

Biscuit Breakfast Casserole

A white bowl filled with a cheesy, layered casserole topped with melted cheddar cheese and chopped green onions.
Biscuit Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This hearty breakfast casserole layers pork sausage, eggs, cheese, and biscuits into a dish that bakes to golden perfection. It’s an easy make-ahead option that feeds a crowd with minimal prep. The biscuits soak up all the flavors, making every bite rich and filling. Perfect for weekend brunch or busy mornings, it’s a great way to make breakfast stress-free. If you haven’t tried a pork-based breakfast casserole yet, this one is worth making.
Get the Recipe: Biscuit Breakfast Casserole

Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

Close-up of an air-fried barbecued rib with charred edges over a white plate.
Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These ribs cook up tender with crispy edges in the air fryer, cutting down the usual cooking time. The air fryer locks in the flavor while giving them the perfect balance of juicy and crispy. A simple seasoning or sauce makes them just as good as traditional ribs without the wait. Since they cook quickly, they’re great for weeknights when you want something special but don’t have hours to spare. If you haven’t used your air fryer for ribs yet, you’re missing out.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

Pancit Bihon Guisado

A fork lifting a portion of chicken and noodles from a bowl of stir-fry.
Pancit Bihon Guisado. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This Filipino noodle dish is loaded with pork, vegetables, and a simple yet flavorful sauce. It comes together quickly in one pan, making it a great option for a fast and filling meal. The thin rice noodles soak up all the flavors, giving each bite the perfect balance of savory and satisfying. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a gathering, it’s an easy way to add something different to your meals. If pork isn’t already a part of your noodle dishes, it should be.
Get the Recipe: Pancit Bihon Guisado

Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites

A basket of crispy roasted pork belly chunks garnished with parsley, served in a white paper-lined wicker basket.
Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These bite-sized pieces of pork belly cook up crispy on the outside and tender on the inside in the air fryer. The high heat gives them the perfect texture without the need for deep frying. They’re packed with flavor and work well as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. With just a handful of ingredients, they’re simple to prepare and come together in minutes. If you haven’t made pork belly in the air fryer yet, now is the time.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites

Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

Bacon wrapped air fryer cabbage on white plate.
Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This simple dish turns cabbage into something special with the help of crispy, smoky bacon. The air fryer cooks everything evenly, giving the cabbage a tender bite while keeping the bacon crisp. It’s a great side dish that pairs well with almost any meal. The combination of flavors makes it a smart way to get more vegetables on the plate while still enjoying the richness of pork. If you haven’t tried this yet, it’s an easy addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

Fish Stew with Chorizo

A bowl of soup with sausage and fish.
Fish Stew with Chorizo. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This hearty stew brings together tender fish and smoky chorizo for a one-pot meal packed with flavor. The chorizo adds richness without overpowering the dish, making it a great balance of ingredients. It comes together easily, making it a simple yet satisfying option for lunch or dinner. Serve it with crusty bread or rice to soak up every last bit. If you don’t usually add pork to your seafood dishes, this is a great way to start.
Get the Recipe: Fish Stew with Chorizo

Minestrone Soup with Sausage

Minestrone Soup with Sausage in white bowl with spoonful.
Minestrone Soup with Sausage. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This vegetable-packed soup gets an extra boost of flavor from pork sausage, making it a filling and well-rounded meal. The sausage blends perfectly with the broth, beans, and pasta for a satisfying bite every time. It’s an easy way to turn simple ingredients into something warm and comforting. Whether for a light dinner or meal prep, it’s a great way to add pork to your soup lineup. If you haven’t tried minestrone this way, it’s worth making.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup with Sausage

Slow Cooker Pork Roast

A plate with roasted pork, sliced carrots, and potatoes on a woven mat, with a fork and knife beside the dish. A slow cooker is partially visible in the background.
Slow Cooker Pork Roast. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This pork roast cooks low and slow until it’s incredibly tender and easy to slice or shred. The slow cooker does all the work, making it a stress-free option for busy days. The end result is a juicy, flavorful roast that pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables. Since it requires minimal prep, it’s an effortless way to make pork the highlight of dinner. If you don’t already make slow-cooked pork like this, you should.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Roast

Baked Stuffed Pork Chops

A plate of pork chops stuffed with mushrooms and cheese served with green beans.
Baked Stuffed Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These pork chops are filled with a savory stuffing, then baked until juicy and golden brown. The stuffing keeps them extra moist while adding another layer of flavor to every bite. They make for a satisfying dinner without requiring complicated prep work. Serve them with a side of vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete meal. If stuffed pork chops aren’t already on your menu, they should be.
Get the Recipe: Baked Stuffed Pork Chops

Ground Pork Burgers

Close-up of  grilled pork burger patties stacked on a white plate.
Ground Pork Burgers. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These pork burgers are a great alternative to beef, offering a juicy and flavorful bite with every bite. They cook up quickly, making them perfect for an easy dinner or backyard grilling. The mild flavor of ground pork pairs well with a variety of toppings and seasonings. Whether served on a bun or alongside a salad, they’re a great way to mix up your burger routine. If you haven’t tried pork burgers yet, they’re worth adding to the rotation.
Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Burgers

Filipino Spaghetti

A bowl of spaghetti topped with a rich meat sauce placed on a red and white checkered tablecloth.
Filipino Spaghetti. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This spaghetti dish stands out with its sweet and savory sauce made with ground pork and a touch of banana ketchup. It’s a fun twist on traditional pasta, offering a unique flavor that keeps people coming back for more. The pork adds a richness that balances perfectly with the sauce. Whether for family dinners or special occasions, it’s an easy way to bring something different to the table. If you haven’t made spaghetti like this before, now’s the time.
Get the Recipe: Filipino Spaghetti

Orange Glazed Air Fryer Ham

Sliced ham with orange slices and grapes, garnished with parsley on a platter.
Orange Glazed Air Fryer Ham. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This ham cooks up perfectly in the air fryer with a sweet and sticky orange glaze. The glaze caramelizes beautifully, giving the ham a rich flavor in a fraction of the usual cooking time. It’s a great choice for holiday meals or when you want something special without the hassle. Since the air fryer makes it so simple, there’s no reason to save this dish just for special occasions. If you haven’t tried making ham this way, you should.
Get the Recipe: Orange Glazed Air Fryer Ham

Air Fryer Lumpia

Filipino spring rolls in a basket with dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Lumpia. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These crispy Filipino spring rolls are filled with seasoned ground pork and vegetables, making them an irresistible snack or appetizer. The air fryer gives them the perfect crunch without needing a deep fryer. They’re easy to make ahead and cook up quickly when you need them. Serve them with a dipping sauce for a meal that’s simple but packed with flavor. If lumpia isn’t already in your snack rotation, it should be.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Lumpia

Breaded Panko Pork Chops

Panko pork chop on plate with greens.
Breaded Panko Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These pork chops are coated in crispy panko breadcrumbs and baked or fried until golden brown. The crunchy coating locks in moisture, making each bite juicy and flavorful. They cook quickly and pair well with almost any side dish. Whether for a weeknight meal or a weekend dinner, they’re a simple but satisfying choice. If you haven’t tried breaded pork chops yet, now’s the time.
Get the Recipe: Breaded Panko Pork Chops

Slow Cooker Pork Chops

Slow cooker pork chops with rice and sauce on a plate.
Slow Cooker Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These pork chops turn out fork-tender after slow cooking in a flavorful sauce. The hands-off cooking method makes them ideal for busy days when you still want a home-cooked meal. They soak up all the flavors as they cook, making them even better the longer they sit. Serve them with mashed potatoes or rice for dinner, which feels like comfort food without extra work. If you don’t already make slow-cooked pork chops, you’re missing out.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Chops

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