Italian cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors, rich aromas, and hearty portions. And what better way to experience the authentic taste of Italy than with a delicious pork dish? From slow-cooked shoulders to crispy belly cuts, pork is a staple in Italian cooking. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 20 mouth-watering Italian pork recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Classic dishes like Pork Saltimbocca and Porchetta-Style Stuffed Pork Loin will transport you straight to the Tuscan countryside, while innovative creations like Pork Scaloppine with White Wine Sauce and Spicy Italian Pork Sausage Pasta will keep things fresh and exciting. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these recipes are sure to inspire your next Italian-inspired meal.
Stay tuned for our selection of the best Italian pork recipes, each one carefully crafted to showcase the rich flavors and tender textures that Italy is famous for.
Classic Italian Pork Roast with Herbs
This mouthwatering roast is a staple of Italian cuisine, featuring tender pork and fragrant herbs that meld together perfectly. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, and parsley)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together olive oil, onion, garlic, and herbs.
3. Add the pork shoulder to the bowl and coat evenly with the herb mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the pork on a roasting rack in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 2-1/2 hours, or until the pork is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
7. Let the roast rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Slow-Cooked Italian Pork Shoulder with Garlic
Slow-Cooked Italian Pork Shoulder with Garlic Recipe
Transform a humble pork shoulder into a tender, flavorful masterpiece with this simple slow-cooked recipe. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the pork shoulder and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the pork from the skillet and place it in the slow cooker.
4. Add the minced garlic, sliced onion, crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring occasionally.
5. Pour the tomato mixture over the pork shoulder in the slow cooker.
6. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Serve with your favorite sides, such as pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Tuscan-Style Pork Chops with Rosemary
Tuscan-Style Pork Chops with Rosemary: A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the rich flavors of pork chops, rosemary, garlic, and lemon.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1 inch thick)
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Season the pork chops with the rosemary mixture on both sides.
4. 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.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Italian Pork Sausage and Peppers
Experience the bold flavors of Italy with this simple and satisfying dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian pork sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers, any color, sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sliced peppers and onion to the skillet; cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet; stir to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with cooked sausage.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the sausage is cooked through.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pork Saltimbocca with Prosciutto and Sage
Saltimbocca is a classic Italian dish that combines the tender flavor of pork with the salty, savory taste of prosciutto and the earthy aroma of sage. This recipe puts a delightful spin on the traditional veal version by using pork as the base, resulting in a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork loin or tenderloin, sliced into thin medallions
– 6 slices prosciutto, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 4 sage leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pork medallions with salt and pepper.
2. Butter a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped prosciutto and cook until crispy, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Remove the prosciutto from the skillet and set aside. Add the sage leaves to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Add the pork medallions to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve the pork with the crispy prosciutto and sautéed sage, garnished with white wine (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork Milanese with Arugula Salad
Elevate your dinner game with this Italian-inspired dish that combines tender pork cutlets with a peppery arugula salad. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork cutlets (about 1/2 inch thick)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh arugula leaves
– Lemon wedges
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each pork cutlet in the beaten egg and then coat with breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook coated pork cutlets for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Transfer pork cutlets to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes.
6. Meanwhile, combine arugula leaves in a bowl. Squeeze lemon juice and toss to combine.
7. Serve cooked pork cutlets with the peppery arugula salad.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Italian Pork Rib Ragu with Pappardelle
A hearty and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines tender pork ribs, rich ragu sauce, and al dente pappardelle pasta.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork ribs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 12 ounces pappardelle pasta
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season pork ribs with salt, pepper, and basil.
3. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear pork ribs until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Add red wine, crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Bring sauce to a simmer, then transfer Dutch oven to preheated oven. Braise for 2 hours or overnight.
7. Cook pappardelle pasta according to package instructions.
8. Serve pork ribs and ragu sauce over cooked pappardelle, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (braising time) + 10-12 minutes (pasta cooking time)
Porchetta-Style Stuffed Pork Loin
Elevate your pork loin game with this Italian-inspired recipe, featuring a flavorful stuffing that’s sure to impress. This porchetta-style stuffed pork loin is perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-5 pound) boneless pork loin
– 1/2 cup mixture of chopped prosciutto, pancetta, and ham
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together prosciutto mixture, sage, garlic, and Parmesan.
3. Lay the pork loin flat on a work surface. Make a horizontal incision in the center of the loin, being careful not to cut all the way through.
4. Stuff the loin with the prepared mixture, dividing it evenly along the length of the meat.
5. Close the incision and tie the loin with kitchen twine at 1-inch intervals.
6. Place the stuffed pork loin on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Roast for 2-3 hours or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
8. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Pork and Fennel Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with these flavorful meatballs made with ground pork, crunchy fennel, and a tangy tomato sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh fennel bulb
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine pork, fennel, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are baking, heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Add crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
6. Serve meatballs with warm tomato sauce and your favorite pasta.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pork Osso Buco with Gremolata
A hearty Italian-inspired stew that simmers tender pork shanks in a rich broth, served with a bright and herbaceous gremolata.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 pork osso buco (shanks)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup white wine
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 bay leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for gremolata)
– Lemon zest, grated (for gremolata)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, brown the pork shanks over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, beef broth, white wine, carrots, celery, tomato paste, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
4. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until tender.
5. Meanwhile, combine chopped parsley, lemon zest, and salt in a small bowl.
6. Serve pork shanks with gremolata spooned over.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (braising time) + 30 minutes to prepare gremolata
Grilled Italian Pork Skewers with Lemon
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with these flavorful and easy-to-make grilled pork skewers infused with the brightness of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Add pork cubes to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated pork onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until pork reaches internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Pork Scaloppine with White Wine Sauce
This recipe combines tender pork scallopine with a rich and flavorful white wine sauce, making for a delicious and impressive main course. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can recreate this dish at home.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork cutlets (about 1/2 inch thick)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 1/2 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the pork cutlets with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge the pork in flour, shaking off excess.
3. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the pork for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in white wine and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook until reduced by half, about 5 minutes.
6. Serve the pork with the white wine sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Pork and Mushroom Risotto with Parmesan
Pork and Mushroom Risotto with Parmesan: A creamy and savory Italian-inspired dish that combines tender pork, earthy mushrooms, and nutty Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz pork tenderloin, sliced into thin strips
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add mushrooms and garlic. Cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. If using wine, add it and cook until absorbed. Then, add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, rice should be creamy and tender. Stir in butter and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Italian Pork Sausage Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this bold and flavorful dish that combines spicy Italian pork sausage, garlic, and herbs. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 lb Spicy Italian Pork Sausage, casings removed
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook, breaking up with spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove sausage from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add garlic; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add parsley and basil to skillet; stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork-Stuffed Cannelloni with Béchamel
Cannelloni is a classic Italian dish that never fails to impress. This recipe combines tender pork with creamy Béchamel sauce, wrapped in fresh pasta and baked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 cannelloni tubes
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Béchamel sauce (recipe below)
Béchamel Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook cannelloni tubes according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground pork, onion, and garlic until browned.
4. Stuff each cooked cannelloni tube with the pork mixture, leaving a small border at the top.
5. Place stuffed cannelloni in a baking dish and cover with Béchamel sauce.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Pork Piccata with Capers and Lemon
A classic Italian dish gets a bright and tangy twist with the addition of capers and lemon. This quick-cooking recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork cutlets (about 1/4 inch thick)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Season the pork cutlets with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the pork cutlets and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside.
5. Add the white wine (if using), lemon juice, and capers to the skillet. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
6. Return the pork cutlets to the skillet and simmer for 1-2 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Serve the pork hot, garnished with parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Italian Pork and Bean Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines tender pork, creamy beans, and aromatic spices, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder or butt, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the pork pieces for 5 minutes on each side; remove from pot.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return the pork to the pot; add the red kidney beans.
6. Simmer, covered, for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until the pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Pork Cutlets with Balsamic Glaze
Pork Cutlets with Balsamic Glaze: A rich and savory dish that elevates pork cutlets with a tangy balsamic glaze, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork cutlets (about 1/2 inch thick)
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
3. Meanwhile, season pork cutlets with salt and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork cutlets for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Brush the balsamic glaze over the pork cutlets during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Pork Belly with Polenta
Crispy Pork Belly with Polenta: A Harmonious Union of Crunchy and Creamy
This recipe brings together the tender, unctuous texture of pork belly and the comforting warmth of creamy polenta. The crispy exterior of the pork adds a satisfying crunch to each bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, skin removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups polenta mix
– 6 cups water
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, honey, and cumin.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork belly, making sure it’s evenly coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast the pork in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
6. While the pork is roasting, cook the polenta according to package instructions using 6 cups of water.
7. Serve the pork belly with the warm polenta and grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes for the pork belly and approximately 15-20 minutes for the polenta.
Pork and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this mouthwatering fusion of pork, ricotta, and jumbo shells. This hearty recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells al dente, then set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stuff cooked pasta shells with the pork mixture, placing them in a baking dish.
7. Top with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese (if using).
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover the rich flavors of Italy with these 20 mouth-watering pork recipes. From classic dishes like Italian Pork Roast with Herbs to innovative twists like Porchetta-Style Stuffed Pork Loin, there’s something for every taste and skill level. Explore slow-cooked shoulder dishes, flavorful sausages, tender chops, and more, all infused with the bold flavors of Italy. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, these authentic and delicious recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure.
