When you’re cooking up a storm in the kitchen, it’s easy to get carried away with the excitement of preparing a new meal. But what happens when you’ve got leftovers that are just begging to be transformed into something new and delicious? For many of us, the thought of reheating last night’s dinner can be a bit of a letdown – but not if you’re armed with some creative recipe ideas!
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 mouth-watering recipes that will breathe new life into your leftover pork chops. From comforting bowls of noodle soup to crispy tacos and savory stir-fries, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these innovative ideas are sure to inspire you to get creative with your leftovers.
Pork Chop Fried Rice
A classic Chinese dish that combines savory pork chops with flavorful fried rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 2 pork chops, cooked and diced
– 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 vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Add the diced pork chops, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry everything together until well combined.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pork Chop Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of pork chops with the boldness of Mexican spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 lbs)
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, salsa, avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, chili powder, and paprika.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the pork chops.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill the pork chops for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos by slicing grilled pork into thin strips and serving with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork Chop and Potato Hash
A hearty and flavorful combination of tender pork chops and crispy potato hash, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-inch thick)
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Transfer to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. While pork chops are cooking, combine potatoes, onion, and garlic in the same skillet. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are golden brown and crispy (about 15-20 minutes).
5. Serve pork chops with potato hash and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pork Chop Stir-Fry
A flavorful and easy-to-make stir-fry recipe featuring juicy pork chops, crisp vegetables, and savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1/2 inch thick)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup bell pepper strips
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork chops and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add onion and garlic; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add broccoli and bell pepper; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Pour sauce over the vegetables and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
6. Return pork chops to the pan and stir-fry everything together for an additional minute.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork Chop Quesadillas
Pork Chop Quesadillas: A Twist on Classic Tex-Mex Comfort Food
Get ready to elevate your quesadilla game with the rich flavor of slow-cooked pork chops!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork chops
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 large tortillas
– 2 tablespoons butter, divided
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a slow cooker or Dutch oven, cook pork chops in BBQ sauce for 6-8 hours or until tender.
3. Shred the cooked pork with two forks and set aside.
4. Butter one side of each tortilla.
5. Place one tortilla, buttered side down, on a baking sheet.
6. Spoon shredded pork and sprinkle with cheese on top of tortilla.
7. Fold tortilla in half to enclose filling.
8. Brush the tops with remaining butter.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and tortillas are crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Pork Chop Quesadillas!
Pork Chop Shepherd’s Pie
A comforting twist on the classic shepherd’s pie, this recipe combines tender pork chops with a rich and savory gravy, topped with a crispy mashed potato crust.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season pork chops with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side or until browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook until translucent. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add beef broth to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Return pork chops to the skillet and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until tender.
6. Top with mashed potatoes and dot with butter. Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pork Chop and Veggie Skillet
Quick and delicious, this skillet recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Sear pork chops with your favorite veggies for a flavorful one-pan meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork chops, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: any other favorite veggies or seasonings
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork chops and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned.
3. Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are tender.
5. Return the pork chops to the skillet and sprinkle with paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork Chop Noodle Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the rich flavor of pork chops with the satisfying texture of noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork chops, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup egg noodles
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the pork chops over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the pork from the pot and set aside. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Return the pork chops to the pot and add the egg noodles. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the noodles are tender.
5. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pork Chop and Bean Chili
This comforting dish combines tender pork chops with a flavorful bean chili, perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork chops, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (16 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the pork chops over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pork Chop Breakfast Burritos
Start your day with a flavorful twist on the classic breakfast burrito, featuring tender pork chops and scrambled eggs wrapped in a warm flour tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork chops
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 flour tortillas
– Salsa, sour cream, and avocado (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the pork chops and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, scramble the eggs in a separate bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble the burritos by placing a cooked pork chop, scrambled eggs, and shredded cheese on each tortilla.
8. Serve hot and customize with your favorite toppings!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork Chop and Cabbage Stir-Fry
Savor the flavors of Asia with this quick and easy stir-fry recipe, featuring tender pork chops and crunchy cabbage.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork chops, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 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 chops and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the cabbage to the pan and stir-fry until it starts to soften, about 2 minutes.
5. Return the pork chops to the pan and stir in soy sauce.
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the pork is cooked through and the cabbage is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pork Chop and Rice Casserole
Pork Chop and Rice Casserole Recipe
A comforting and satisfying casserole that combines tender pork chops with flavorful rice, vegetables, and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork chops, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook pork chops in olive oil until browned on all sides and cooked through.
3. In a separate pot, combine rice, mixed vegetables, diced onion, minced garlic, and chicken broth. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is heated through.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of cooked pork chops, followed by a layer of rice mixture, then a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
5. Repeat steps 4-5 until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Pour in milk and dot the surface with remaining cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Serves: 4-6 people
Pork Chop and Pasta Alfredo
A classic combination of tender pork chops served with a rich and creamy pasta alfredo, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-inch thick)
– 12 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season pork chops with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add pork chops and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
5. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Heat over low until smooth and creamy.
6. Combine cooked pasta, sauce, and pork chops. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Pork chops: 12-15 minutes
– Pasta: 8-10 minutes
– Total: 20-25 minutes
Pork Chop and Sweet Potato Mash
Pork Chops with Sweet Potato Mash Recipe
Summary: A classic comfort food combination featuring tender pork chops and creamy sweet potato mash, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-inch thick)
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, and any desired seasonings. Rub the mixture evenly onto both sides of the pork chops.
3. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Transfer to the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, boil the sweet potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash with a fork or potato masher.
5. Serve the pork chops hot with the creamy sweet potato mash.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes.
Pork Chop and Spinach Salad
A perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, this recipe pairs crispy pork chops with a fresh spinach salad for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 lbs)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat; add olive oil and cook pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
4. Transfer pork chops to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine spinach, red onion, and feta cheese in a bowl.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil; pour over the salad and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pork Chop and Cornbread Stuffing
Pork Chop and Cornbread Stuffing Recipe
This savory stuffing combines tender pork chops with the warmth of cornbread, perfect for a cozy holiday meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork chops
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped celery
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the pork chops over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, celery, onion, garlic, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the chicken broth and mix until the cornbread is moist but not soggy.
5. Tear the cooked pork chops into bite-sized pieces and add to the cornbread mixture.
6. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer the stuffing to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pork Chop and Mushroom Gravy
Savor the rich flavors of tender pork chops smothered in a savory mushroom gravy, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless pork chops (1-1.5 pounds)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Transfer to a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. In the same skillet, cook mushrooms, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the mixture is tender and fragrant.
5. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard to the skillet. Stir until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Serve pork chops with mushroom gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pork Chop and Broccoli Bake
Pork Chop and Broccoli Bake Recipe
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this simple and satisfying pork chop and broccoli bake recipe.
Ingredients:
• 4 pork chops, 1-2 inches thick
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the broccoli florets to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Place the pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Top each pork chop with a quarter of the broccoli mixture and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
6. Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the baking dish to create a flavorful pan sauce.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pork chops are cooked through and the broccoli is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 4
Pork Chop and Coleslaw Sandwiches
A classic combination of tender pork chops and refreshing coleslaw, all wrapped up in a soft bun.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1/2 inch thick)
– 1 cup coleslaw mix
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
3. Grill pork chops for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, mix coleslaw ingredients in a bowl.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing grilled pork chops on buns, topping with coleslaw, lettuce, tomato, and cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pork Chop and Egg Fried Rice
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines the savory flavors of pork chops, eggs, and rice, this recipe is a quick and easy meal option.
Ingredients:
• 2 pork chops (1-inch thick)
• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 2 eggs
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork chops and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Push the pork chops to one side of the pan. Crack the eggs into the other side and scramble them until cooked through.
4. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan and stir-fry until softened.
5. Add the cooked rice, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Slice the pork chops into thin strips and add them to the pan. Stir-fry everything together for an additional minute.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get creative with leftover pork chops! This article presents 20 delicious recipe ideas to transform last night’s dinner into a brand new meal. From Asian-inspired stir-fries and tacos, to hearty casseroles and comforting noodle soups, there’s something for every taste bud. Discover how to turn pork chops into fried rice, quesadillas, shepherd’s pie, and more. With these recipes, you’ll never have to waste a single bite of that perfectly cooked pork chop again.
