Looking for an easy, no-stress weeknight dinner? This Easy Pork Stew is cozy, hearty, and comes together in under an hour. Tender pork simmers with potatoes, carrots, and herbs in a rich tomato sauce using simple ingredients that deliver big comfort with very little effort.
Want more cozy dinner ideas? Browse my full collection of pork recipes.
This pork stew with potatoes is the kind of meal that quickly becomes a family favorite. Inspired by classic, old-fashioned stews, I simplified the process into one pot while keeping the pork juicy and the sauce rich and silky.
If you enjoy cozy pork dinners, you might also love my Pork Blanquette, a classic French-style pork stew that’s rich, comforting, and perfect for slower evenings.
Here’s what I like most about this one:
Some nights just call for a thick, comforting stew. While beef stew often gets all the attention, this pork stew proves that pork can be just as tender, rich, and satisfying any time of year.
Even if pork is not usually your first choice, this recipe might surprise you. The flavorful sauce, gentle spices, and hearty vegetables create a comforting dish that everyone at the table can enjoy.
If pork is a regular at your dinner table, you might also enjoy my pork schnitzel with gravy, another comforting, family-friendly pork dinner.
This might not be the first stew that comes to mind, but it deserves a spot in your regular rotation. It is cozy, flavorful, and just as satisfying as any classic beef stew.
Best Cut of Pork for Stew
For this recipe, I use pork shoulder cut into bite-sized chunks. Beef can also be used, but it will need a longer simmer to become tender.
For richer pork dishes, you may also like my roasted pork belly, which is all about deep flavor and tender texture.
Pork shoulder or pork butt works best here because it has enough fat to stay juicy during simmering. If you decide to use beef, plan on extending the cooking time. Lean cuts like pork loin cook faster but can dry out if overcooked.
Tender pork comes down to choosing the right cut and giving it enough time to cook. Well-marbled cuts like shoulder benefit from a longer simmer, while leaner cuts should be cooked for a shorter time to stay tender.
What to Serve with Pork Stew
This pork stew is perfect served with plain rice or a slice of crusty bread to soak up the sauce. A squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh parsley help brighten everything up right before serving.
How to Make Pork Stew
Pork stew is made in many different ways around the world. From Filipino-style versions to Spanish-inspired stews and even Jamie Oliver’s rustic take with cider and herbs, one thing they all have in common is comfort. This version keeps things simple and cozy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels, cut it into cubes, and sear it in hot oil until browned on all sides.
Chop the onions and sauté them until soft and lightly golden, about 5 minutes. Add the carrots and cook until they begin to soften.
Season with salt, black pepper, basil, oregano, thyme, and paprika, stirring to coat the vegetables evenly.
Stir everything together for a couple of minutes, then add the water or stock. Cover and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
Stir in the garlic, bay leaves, and chopped potatoes. Add more liquid if needed, cover, and continue cooking until the potatoes are tender.
Stir in the tomato purée and let the stew simmer uncovered for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and your pork stew is ready to serve.
Pork Stew Is Ready!
Enjoy! If you try this recipe, I would love to hear how it turned out. Leave a comment, rate it, and save it to Pinterest for later.
This easy pork stew is a simple one-pot dinner made with everyday ingredients. It is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or anytime you need a comforting homemade meal.
You may also like: Pork Blanquette • Pork Schnitzel with Gravy • Easy Oven Barbecue Ribs
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make pork stew ahead of time?
Yes, pork stew is a great make-ahead meal. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even better the next day. Let it cool completely, then store it in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat gently on the stovetop.
How do I thicken the stew without flour?
You can thicken pork stew without flour by simmering it uncovered to reduce the sauce. Another option is to mash a few potatoes directly into the stew or stir in a cornstarch slurry and cook for a few minutes until thickened.
Can I freeze pork stew?
Yes, pork stew freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently. The potatoes may soften slightly, which is normal.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes. Skip the flour and thicken the stew using reduction, mashed potatoes, or a cornstarch slurry. Always double-check that your stock and seasonings are gluten free.
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months once completely cooled.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or stock if needed.
- Leftover idea: Serve over rice, or use as a savory pie filling.
Substitutions & Variations
Veggies: Bell peppers, celery, peas, or mushrooms all work well.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds depth. Rosemary or a pinch of chili flakes works too.
Liquids: Swap part of the stock for dry white wine or apple cider for extra flavor.
Beef option: Use chuck roast and simmer longer until fork-tender.
