10 Festive Pork Recipes for a Merry Christmas Feast

Christmas pork recipes are a festive and delicious way to celebrate the holiday season. From juicy roasts to savory stews, pork can add a delightful twist to your holiday table. Get ready to prep some mouthwatering dishes that will impress your family and friends, all while keeping the festive spirit alive!

Cranberry Orange Pulled Pork

Cranberry Orange Pulled Pork is a delightful twist on traditional pulled pork, perfect for holiday gatherings. The combination of tart cranberries and sweet orange creates a savory glaze that enhances the succulent pork, making it a dish everyone will love. It’s simple to make, requiring minimal prep while allowing you to enjoy your time with family and friends.

This dish is not only tasty but also versatile. Serve it on a bun for sandwiches, with rice, or alongside festive sides. The vibrant flavors bring a touch of holiday cheer to your table, making it one of the standout Christmas pork recipes.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds pork shoulder
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup barbecue sauce

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: Place the pork shoulder in a slow cooker. In a bowl, combine cranberries, orange juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the pork.
2. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
3. Shred the Pork: Once cooked, shred the pork using two forks and mix it with the sauce in the slow cooker. Stir in the barbecue sauce for added flavor.
4. Serve: Enjoy the pulled pork on buns, with rice, or alongside your favorite sides. Garnish with extra cranberries if desired.

Maple Mustard Glazed Pork Chops

These Maple Mustard Glazed Pork Chops are a delightful dish that combines savory and sweet flavors, making them a perfect choice for your holiday table. The glaze, made with maple syrup and Dijon mustard, enhances the natural flavors of the pork, resulting in a juicy and tender chop that’s packed with taste.

Not only do these pork chops taste amazing, but they’re also simple to whip up. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that impresses family and friends alike. Serve them alongside your favorite seasonal vegetables for a festive and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 4 pork chops
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Fresh rosemary for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to make the glaze.
3. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper, then place them in a baking dish.
4. Brush the maple mustard glaze generously over each chop.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh rosemary if desired.

Pork Roast with Apples and Onions

This Pork Roast with Apples and Onions is a delightful dish that brings together the savory flavors of pork with the sweetness of apples and the aromatic touch of onions. It’s perfect for a cozy holiday dinner and is surprisingly simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned cooks and kitchen newcomers.

The combination of juicy pork and tender, caramelized apples creates a beautiful balance of flavors. The dish not only looks impressive on the table but also fills your home with a warm, inviting aroma. Everyone will love the tender meat paired with the sweet and savory elements!

Ingredients

• 3-4 lbs pork loin roast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 apples, sliced
• 2 large onions, sliced
• 1 cup apple cider
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Rub the pork loin with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. In a large skillet, sear the pork on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the pork to a roasting pan.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced apples and onions. Sauté until slightly softened, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in apple cider, brown sugar, cinnamon, and thyme.
4. Pour the apple mixture over the pork in the roasting pan. Cover with foil and roast for about 1.5 hours, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Remove from the oven and let the roast rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with the apples and onions on the side.

Honey Glazed Christmas Ham

Honey glazed Christmas ham is a festive centerpiece that brings warmth and sweetness to your holiday table. The combination of honey, brown sugar, and spices creates a delicious glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, giving the ham a rich, golden-brown finish. This recipe is simple to follow, making it perfect for both seasoned cooks and beginners.

The flavors in this dish are a delightful mix of sweet and savory, with hints of mustard and cloves that add depth. It pairs wonderfully with traditional sides like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes, making it a beloved choice for Christmas gatherings. Let’s get started with this easy recipe that will surely impress your guests!

Ingredients

• 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)
• 1 cup honey
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Whole cloves (for studding the ham)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern and stud with whole cloves.
3. In a saucepan, mix honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, cinnamon, and black pepper. Heat over medium until smooth.
4. Place the ham in a roasting pan and brush half of the glaze over the surface.
5. Bake for about 2-2.5 hours, basting with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes until heated through and caramelized.
6. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your tasty holiday dish!

Garlic Herb Crusted Pork Tenderloin

This garlic herb crusted pork tenderloin is a delightful dish that brings festive flavors to your table. It’s juicy, tender, and coated in a savory herb crust that makes it perfect for any holiday gathering. The combination of garlic, fresh herbs, and a touch of citrus creates an inviting aroma that will have everyone eagerly awaiting dinner.

The recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all experience levels. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can impress your guests with a mouthwatering centerpiece for your holiday feast. This dish is sure to become a favorite among your Christmas pork recipes!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds pork tenderloin
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, olive oil, salt, pepper, lemon zest, and Dijon mustard. Mix well to form a paste.
3. Rub the garlic herb mixture all over the pork tenderloin, ensuring it is evenly coated.
4. Place the tenderloin on the prepared baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Remove from the oven and let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Stuffed Pork Loin with Chestnuts and Sage

This stuffed pork loin with chestnuts and sage is a delightful dish that captures the essence of holiday flavors. It offers a juicy, savory taste with a hint of sweetness from the chestnuts, making it a standout centerpiece for your Christmas dinner. The combination of sage adds a wonderful aroma and depth to the meat, bringing warmth and comfort to the table.

Surprisingly, this recipe is simple to prepare, allowing you to impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen. Just a few steps and some fresh ingredients will have you serving up a delicious meal that everyone will love. It’s a perfect addition to your collection of Christmas pork recipes!

Ingredients

• 2 to 3 pounds pork loin
• 1 cup cooked chestnuts, chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until soft. Stir in chopped chestnuts, breadcrumbs, sage, cranberries, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes until well combined.
2. Prepare the Pork: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butterfly the pork loin carefully, creating an even thickness for stuffing. Season the inside with salt and pepper.
3. Stuff the Pork: Spoon the filling evenly over the butterflied pork loin. Roll it tightly and secure with kitchen twine or toothpicks.
4. Roast: Place the stuffed pork loin in a baking dish. Pour chicken broth around the pork and cover with foil. Roast for about 1 hour, then uncover and roast for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Rest and Serve: Let the pork rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Spicy Pork Ribs with Holiday Rub

Spicy pork ribs are a fantastic choice for holiday gatherings. With a perfect balance of heat and sweetness, these ribs will delight your taste buds and impress your guests. They’re surprisingly simple to prepare, making them ideal for both seasoned cooks and beginners alike.

The holiday rub gives these ribs a festive twist, infusing them with flavors that evoke the spirit of Christmas. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish or as a hearty appetizer, these ribs will surely become a favorite in your collection of Christmas pork recipes.

Ingredients

• 2 racks of pork ribs
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to create the rub.
3. Remove the silver skin from the back of the ribs and rub the spice mixture evenly over the ribs.
4. Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil, cover tightly with another piece of foil, and bake for 2.5 to 3 hours.
5. Remove the ribs from the oven, uncover, and brush with barbecue sauce. Increase the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
6. Bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes, basting with more barbecue sauce halfway through.
7. Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve hot.

Italian Sausage and Veggie Christmas Bake

This Italian Sausage and Veggie Christmas Bake is a warm and hearty dish that captures the essence of holiday gatherings. With savory sausage, colorful vegetables, and melted cheese, it’s a festive meal that brings joy to the table. Plus, it’s simple to whip up, making it perfect for busy holiday weeks.

The combination of flavors is delightful, with the sausage adding a nice richness and the veggies providing a fresh crunch. This recipe is not just tasty; it’s also a great way to use seasonal vegetables. Gather your loved ones around this comforting bake for a memorable Christmas meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound Italian sausage, sliced
• 2 cups bell peppers, diced
• 1 cup zucchini, diced
• 1 cup carrots, chopped
• 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, cook the sliced Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. In a large baking dish, combine the bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and butternut squash. Add the cooked sausage on top of the veggies.
3. Pour the marinara sauce over the mixture and sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to evenly coat the ingredients.
4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, and return to the oven for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Once done, let it cool slightly and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your cozy Christmas meal!

Balsamic Glazed Pork Medallions

Balsamic Glazed Pork Medallions are a delicious and festive option for your holiday table. The sweet and tangy balsamic glaze perfectly complements the tender pork, creating a dish that bursts with flavor. It’s a simple recipe that doesn’t require a lot of time, making it ideal for busy holiday cooking.

This dish is not only tasty but also visually appealing, making it a standout centerpiece for your Christmas dinner. Pair it with seasonal sides, and you’ll have a meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 pound pork tenderloin, sliced into medallions
• 1 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs for garnish (like rosemary or thyme)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the marinade. Add the pork medallions and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Cook the Pork: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the pork from the marinade and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let rest.
3. Make the Glaze: In the same skillet, add the remaining marinade and simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
4. Serve: Slice the pork and drizzle with the balsamic glaze. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with your favorite sides.

Pork Schnitzel with Festive Slaw

Pork schnitzel is a delightful dish that brings a crispy, golden crunch to the table. The juicy pork, coated in breadcrumbs and fried to perfection, pairs beautifully with a vibrant slaw that adds a fresh, tangy contrast. This recipe is not only tasty but also simple to prepare, making it an excellent choice for festive gatherings or cozy family dinners.

The combination of flavors in this dish is sure to impress. The tender pork is enhanced by aromatic spices, while the slaw, made with colorful cabbage and crunchy carrots, brings a refreshing bite. Perfect for the holiday season, this meal is a wonderful way to enjoy Christmas pork recipes with a twist.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless pork chops
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 2 cups shredded red cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: Pound the pork chops thin using a meat mallet. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Bread the Pork: Dredge each pork chop in flour, dip into beaten eggs, and then coat with breadcrumbs. Set aside.
3. Fry the Schnitzel: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the pork chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
4. Make the Slaw: In a bowl, combine shredded cabbage and carrots. In a separate bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss to combine.
5. Serve: Place the pork schnitzel on a plate with the festive slaw on the side. Enjoy your delicious holiday meal!