When it comes to cooking, busy cooks often find themselves stuck between a rock and a hard place. They want to create delicious meals for their families and friends, but they don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Enter canned pork, a convenient and flavorful ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of dishes. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering recipes that use canned pork as the star ingredient. From spicy stir-fries to comforting chowders, and from tacos to casseroles, these recipes are perfect for busy cooks who want to impress their loved ones with minimal effort.
Spicy Canned Pork and Rice Stir-Fry
Quickly add some excitement to your meal routine with this spicy canned pork and rice stir-fry, perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunchbox addition.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) of pork in chili gravy
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (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 minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, canned pork, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until everything is well combined and heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamy Canned Pork and Potato Chowder
Warm up with this comforting and easy-to-make chowder recipe, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of pork and vegetables in BBQ sauce
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1/4 cup of heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the canned pork mixture, diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
2. Pour in the milk and heavy cream. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Bring the chowder to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Canned Pork Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Easy Canned Pork Tacos with Avocado Salsa: A quick and flavorful twist on traditional tacos, this recipe uses canned pork as a convenient shortcut to a delicious meal.
Canned Pork and Bean Chili
A hearty, comforting chili recipe that’s quick to prepare using canned pork and beans. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 (16 oz) can pork and beans in tomato sauce
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced onion and minced garlic over medium heat until softened.
2. Add the diced red bell pepper and cook until tender.
3. Stir in the chili powder and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the canned pork and beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Savory Canned Pork Fried Rice
A quick and flavorful meal that combines the comfort of fried rice with the convenience of canned pork.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) pork with green beans in a savory sauce, drained
– 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 garlic and cooked pork, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the pork mixture.
5. Add soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stir-fry everything together until the rice is well coated and heated through.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Canned Pork and Cabbage Stew
A hearty and comforting stew made with canned pork, cabbage, and simple spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can of pork and vegetables in tomato-based sauce
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the canned pork and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Add the shredded cabbage and cumin; stir well to combine.
6. Bring the stew to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Quick Canned Pork Noodle Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect solution when you need a warm meal in a hurry. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you’ll have a satisfying bowl of goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) pork and noodles
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Open the can of pork and noodles and place it in a medium-sized pot.
2. Add the chicken broth, frozen peas and carrots, and soy sauce (if using) to the pot.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Canned Pork and Sweet Potato Hash
A comforting, easy-to-make side dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of pork with vegetables (drained)
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine drained pork, diced sweet potatoes, and olive oil.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet in an even layer.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender and lightly browned.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Canned Pork Pasta
Quickly elevate a can of pork to a satisfying pasta dish with this simple recipe. Flavors of garlic and butter meld together for a rich, comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of pork in gravy
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the canned pork, stirring to combine with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Combine cooked pasta and pork mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Canned Pork and Cornbread Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole that combines the richness of canned pork with the warm, golden crust of cornbread.
Zesty Canned Pork Quesadillas
A flavorful twist on traditional quesadillas, this recipe combines the convenience of canned pork with the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) can of pork in a zesty tomato-based sauce, drained
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the drained pork, salt, and pepper.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of it with cheese.
4. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the pork mixture on top of the cheese.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also crispy and golden.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total
Canned Pork and Lentil Curry
This recipe is a flavorful and comforting blend of canned pork, lentils, and spices that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) pork with green chilies
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onions and garlic; cook until the onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the canned pork, lentils, and coconut milk. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer; reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
6. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Canned Pork Stuffed Peppers
A creamy, savory twist on traditional stuffed peppers. This recipe combines the convenience of canned pork with the comfort of melted cheese and sweet bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
– 1/2 cup canned pork with gravy, drained
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chopped peppers and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with the shredded cheese, canned pork, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the cheesy mixture, filling to the top.
5. Transfer the stuffed peppers to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Canned Pork and Mushroom Gravy over Mashed Potatoes
A comforting and easy-to-make recipe that combines the flavors of canned pork, sautéed mushrooms, and creamy mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (10.5 oz) pork with mushroom gravy
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes
– 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Boil the potatoes until tender, then mash with milk, butter, salt, and pepper.
3. Open the can of pork with mushroom gravy and heat it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
4. Add sliced mushrooms to the saucepan and cook until they’re tender and the gravy has thickened slightly.
5. Serve the heated pork and mushroom mixture over the mashed potatoes.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet and Sour Canned Pork Stir-Fry
This quick and easy recipe is a twist on traditional stir-fries, using canned pork to speed up the cooking process. The sweet and sour flavors will have you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of pork (14 oz), drained
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 1/4 cup of sweet and sour sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables; cook until they’re tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in the canned pork and sweet and sour sauce; cook for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Canned Pork and Egg Fried Rice
A simple and satisfying meal that combines the convenience of canned pork with the comfort of a warm, fluffy fried rice dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1 can (14 oz) of pork in gravy, drained
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 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 minced garlic; stir-fry until they are translucent.
3. Push the onion mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in the beaten eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
4. Mix the eggs with the onion mixture, then add the cooked rice, canned pork, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry everything together for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Herbed Canned Pork and Vegetable Skillet
A flavorful and effortless skillet meal that combines canned pork, fresh herbs, and colorful vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) pork with green beans and cream of mushroom sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the canned pork mixture, stirring to combine with the onion and garlic.
5. Add the mixed bell peppers and chopped parsley, stirring to distribute evenly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Canned Pork and Black Bean Burritos
In just a few minutes, you can whip up a flavorful and filling meal with canned pork, black beans, and tortillas. This recipe is perfect for a busy day when you need something satisfying but don’t have hours to spare.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can of pork in tomato sauce
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 8-10 tortillas
– 1/4 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Heat the canned pork in a large skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
2. Add the cooked black beans to the skillet and stir to combine with the pork.
3. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the pork and bean mixture onto the center of each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the filling.
6. Fold the bottom edge of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat burrito shape.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Discover the convenience of canned pork with these 18 flavorful recipes perfect for busy cooks. From classic comfort foods to international twists, you’ll find inspiration for quick and delicious meals. Try Spicy Canned Pork and Rice Stir-Fry, Creamy Canned Pork and Potato Chowder, or Easy Canned Pork Tacos with Avocado Salsa. Other mouthwatering options include Canned Pork and Bean Chili, Savory Canned Pork Fried Rice, and many more. With these recipes, you can turn canned pork into a tasty main dish, side, or snack in no time.
