When it comes to planning a picnic, there’s nothing quite like a delicious and tender pork dish to bring everyone together. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or packing a blanket lunch, these 18 flavorful pork picnic recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
From classic pulled pork sandwiches to international-inspired dishes like Korean BBQ and Mexican carnitas, we’ve got you covered with a variety of mouthwatering options. And the best part? Many of these recipes can be made in advance or are perfect for slow-cooking, making them ideal for busy hosts who want to enjoy their picnic without sacrificing flavor.
So why settle for boring old burgers when you can serve up a show-stopping pork picnic spread that will leave your guests raving? Read on for our top 18 picks and get ready to elevate your outdoor entertaining game!
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Picnic Shoulder
Perfect for a casual gathering or family dinner, this slow cooker recipe yields tender and flavorful pulled pork that’s sure to please. With minimal effort, you’ll be rewarded with a deliciously easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless picnic shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup beer (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the picnic shoulder to the slow cooker and rub with the spice mixture.
3. Pour in apple cider vinegar and beer (if using).
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Shred pork with two forks and serve.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Smoked Pork Picnic with Apple Cider Glaze
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with this tender and flavorful Smoked Pork Picnic, glazed to perfection with a sweet and tangy Apple Cider reduction.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork picnic roast
– 1 cup wood chips (apple or cherry)
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. Season pork with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Place pork in smoker and cook for 4-5 hours, or until tender.
4. While pork is smoking, combine apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and olive oil in a saucepan.
5. Bring glaze to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Glaze pork with the apple cider mixture during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Tips:
– Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 160°F.
– Let pork rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Garlic and Herb Roasted Pork Picnic
A flavorful and tender pork picnic, infused with the richness of garlic and herbs, perfect for a summer gathering or outdoor celebration.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork picnic shoulder
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the garlic-herb mixture all over the pork picnic shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
5. Roast for 2-1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Spicy Korean BBQ Pork Picnic
Transform your next picnic or outdoor gathering into a flavorful fiesta with this mouth-watering Spicy Korean BBQ Pork recipe! This sweet and spicy dish is sure to delight your guests.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic powder.
2. Add the pork strips to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
4. Remove pork from marinade and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve with green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Picnic Pork Stew with Root Vegetables
A hearty and comforting stew perfect for a picnic or a cozy evening at home. This recipe combines tender pork, flavorful root vegetables, and aromatic spices to create a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat oil over medium-high heat.
3. Brown pork in batches, then set aside.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
5. Add carrots, potatoes, sweet potato, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
7. Return pork to pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven.
8. Cook for 2 hours or until pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Honey Mustard Glazed Pork Picnic Roast
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with this sweet and tangy pork roast, perfectly glazed to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork picnic roast
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, and garlic.
3. Rub the pork roast with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the glaze all over the pork roast, making sure it’s evenly coated.
5. Place the pork roast on a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Let the roast rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours for a 2-pound roast.
Crispy Skin Pork Picnic with Fennel Rub
Elevate your pork picnic game with this easy-to-make recipe that yields crispy, flavorful skin and a juicy interior. This dish is perfect for a casual gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup fennel rub (see below)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Fennel Rub:
– 2 tbsp ground fennel seed
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together fennel rub ingredients.
3. Rub the fennel mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to cover it evenly.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the pork and place it in a roasting pan.
5. Roast for 20 minutes, then reduce heat to 375°F (190°C) and cook for an additional 30-40 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Pork Picnic Carnitas Tacos
Savor the flavors of a summer picnic with these tender, slow-cooked carnitas tacos. Perfect for a backyard BBQ or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven or slow cooker, combine pork, lime juice, orange juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours, until pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by shredding pork into bite-sized pieces and serving with radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours or 4-6 hours
Maple Bourbon Braised Pork Picnic
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this tender pork picnic, slow-cooked in a rich maple bourbon braising liquid. Perfect for a cozy gathering or outdoor celebration.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork picnic shoulder
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp bourbon whiskey
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or braising pan, combine pork, maple syrup, bourbon, onion, garlic, and thyme.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 2-1/2 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Picnic Pork Chops with Peach Salsa
A classic summer picnic combination: tender pork chops paired with a sweet and tangy peach salsa, perfect for outdoor gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless pork chops
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3 ripe peaches, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of pork chops.
4. Grill pork chops for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine peaches, red onion, jalapeño, and lime juice in a bowl. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve grilled pork chops with peach salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pork Picnic Adobo with Pineapple
This recipe combines the classic flavors of adobo with the sweetness of pineapple, creating a deliciously unique pork dish perfect for your next picnic or backyard gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork pieces and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, combine soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Return the pork to the skillet and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
5. Add the pineapple chunks and stir to combine. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Picnic Pork and Bean Cassoulet
A hearty, comforting casserole perfect for outdoor gatherings or cozy nights in. This Picnic Pork and Bean Cassoulet combines tender pork, creamy beans, and crispy breadcrumbs in a rich, flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook pork over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, chicken broth, milk, tomato paste, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in kidney beans and season with salt and pepper.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and dot with butter.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Rosemary Garlic Pork Picnic Roast
Elevate your picnic game with this mouthwatering Rosemary Garlic Pork Picnic Roast, perfect for a sunny day outdoors. This savory and aromatic roast is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork loin or shoulder
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together chopped rosemary and minced garlic.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork roast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Place the roast on a rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan, fat side up (if applicable).
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
7. Let the roast rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes for a 2-pound roast
Pork Picnic Sandwiches with Coleslaw
Elevate your picnic game with these mouthwatering pork sandwiches, paired with a refreshing coleslaw that’s sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, thinly sliced
– 4 hamburger buns
– 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lettuce leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season pork slices with salt, pepper, and barbecue sauce.
3. Grill pork for 5-7 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
4. Meanwhile, combine coleslaw ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve.
5. Assemble sandwiches by spreading mayonnaise on each bun, then adding grilled pork, lettuce leaves (if using), and a spoonful of coleslaw.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Picnic Pork Stir-Fry with Vegetables
A deliciously easy and flavorful stir-fry perfect for a picnic or any outdoor gathering. This recipe is quick to prepare, packed with nutrients, and sure to please the crowd.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork tenderloin, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snap peas)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and grated ginger. Pour the mixture over the vegetables and stir to combine.
5. Return the cooked pork to the pan and stir-fry everything together for another minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork Picnic Ragu over Pappardelle
Celebrate the flavors of a picnic with this hearty ragu dish, featuring tender pork and rich tomato sauce served atop a bed of pillowy pappardelle pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow)
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces pappardelle pasta
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pappardelle according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground pork over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chopped onion, garlic, and mixed bell peppers; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let ragu cook for 20-25 minutes or until thickened slightly.
6. Serve ragu over cooked pappardelle pasta, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Picnic Pork Sliders with Pickled Onions
Perfect for your next outdoor gathering, these bite-sized pork sliders are infused with the tangy sweetness of pickled onions. Serve them up and watch them disappear!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 hamburger buns
– Pickled onions (see below for recipe)
– Optional: coleslaw, pickles, or cheese slices
Pickled Onions Recipe:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine ground pork, chopped onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 8 small patties.
4. Grill the sliders for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve on hamburger buns with pickled onions and your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pork Picnic Chili with Black Beans
Warm up with this hearty, flavorful chili perfect for a cozy picnic or a cold winter’s night. This recipe combines tender pork, creamy black beans, and savory spices to create a deliciously comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground pork in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, red kidney beans, beef broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a picnic to remember with these 18 delicious pork recipes! From classic pulled pork and roasted pork to spicy Korean BBQ and maple bourbon braised pork, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or a casual family gathering, these flavorful dishes are sure to please. With options like crispy skin pork picnickers and picnic pork stew with root vegetables, you’ll never run out of ideas. So pack up the blankets and get ready to enjoy some tasty pork at your next outdoor adventure!
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