One-Pan Plum Sauce Pork: The Ultimate Quick & Healthy Weeknight Dinner Recipe

Craving a vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly easy meal that comes together in under 30 minutes? Look no further than this sensational One-Pan Plum Sauce Pork! Perfect for busy weeknights, effortless meal prep, or even impressing guests, this dish is a true culinary hero. Featuring tender pork loin bathed in a rich plum glaze, complemented by crisp carrots, colorful bell peppers, and a hint of fresh ginger, it’s a healthy and delicious option that’s also Weight Watchers friendly. Get ready to add a burst of sweet and savory Asian-inspired flavors to your dinner table with minimal fuss and maximum taste!

Plum glaze pork in black speckled frying pan, garnished with fresh herbs and noodles — A delicious One-Pan Plum Sauce Pork dish, ready in under 30 minutes.

This recipe is designed for ultimate convenience without compromising on flavor. Whether you need a quick dinner after a long day at work or a make-ahead option for a special occasion, this Plum Sauce Pork delivers. Its robust flavors and vibrant presentation make it ideal for a relaxed Sunday dinner or even a more formal gathering. When served alongside fluffy rice, it transforms into a complete and satisfying meal that everyone will adore.

Fresh & Flavorful Ingredient Notes

To create this delightful Plum Sauce Pork, you’ll need a handful of accessible and fresh ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the dish’s signature sweet, savory, and slightly spicy profile. Here’s what you’ll be gathering:

Ingredients for Plum Sauce Pork laid out in glass bowls, clearly labelled. — Key ingredients for a quick and flavorful Plum Sauce Pork.

Pork Loin (Boneless or Bone-In): The star of our dish! Pork loin is lean, tender, and cooks relatively quickly. For the main photos, we used bone-in pork loin chops for their robust flavor and presentation. However, boneless pork loin or tenderloin works beautifully and can sometimes cook even faster. Choose what’s available and suits your preference; both absorb the plum sauce wonderfully.
Plum Sauce: This is the heart of the glaze. You can use any high-quality store-bought plum sauce; it doesn’t specifically need to be labeled “Chinese plum sauce.” Look for one with a good balance of sweet and tangy notes. Its fruity depth is essential for the dish’s distinctive taste.
Fresh Ginger: Absolutely vital for that bright, pungent kick! Do not substitute with ground ginger spice, as the flavor will be significantly different and lack the fresh, aromatic complexity that only real ginger provides. Grate it fresh for the best results.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: These add a welcome hint of heat, elevating the flavor without making the dish overly spicy. Adjust the quantity to your personal spice preference. They contribute a subtle warmth that perfectly complements the sweetness of the plum sauce.
Crispy (Dry) Chow Mein Noodles: While optional, these noodles offer a fantastic textural contrast. We love using them as a garnish, but an even better experience (in our opinion!) is to mix them into the dish during the last few minutes of cooking. They soften slightly, absorbing some of the delicious sauce, which creates an irresistible tender-crisp texture. Farkay is a popular brand, but any crispy chow mein noodles will do.

*Refer to the full recipe card below for the complete list of ingredients and precise quantities.

Creative Variations & Smart Substitutions

This Plum Sauce Pork recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences or whatever you have on hand. Don’t hesitate to get creative with these variations and substitutions:

Peppers: Feel free to experiment with different colors of bell peppers to add visual appeal and varying subtle flavors. Red, yellow, and orange peppers all work well. If fresh peppers aren’t available, frozen mixed peppers can be a convenient substitute – just add them directly to the pan, no thawing necessary.
Pork Cuts: While pork loin chops are excellent, this recipe is versatile. Boneless pork tenderloin, cut into medallions, or even thinner pork cutlets will cook even faster. You can also use other bone-in cuts, but be mindful of adjusting cooking times to ensure proper doneness and tenderness.
Spice Level: If you enjoy a bolder kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes. For an extra layer of heat and depth, a dash of sriracha or sweet chili sauce can be stirred into the plum sauce mixture.
Onion Options: Green onions provide a mild, fresh onion flavor. If you don’t have them, white onion can be used. To ensure it cooks evenly and integrates well, finely chop it and microwave with 3 teaspoons of water for about 1 minute 30 seconds (then drain) before adding to the skillet. This softens it slightly and reduces its raw pungency.
Plum Sauce Alternatives: While store-bought plum sauce is convenient, you can certainly try a homemade plum sauce recipe for an even fresher flavor. Hoisin sauce also makes an excellent substitute, offering a similar sweet and savory profile, though with its own distinct notes.
Rice Pairings: This dish is fantastic with various types of rice. Instant rice is quick, basmati or jasmine rice add aromatic qualities, and for a lower-carb, Weight Watchers-friendly option, cauliflower rice is a superb choice.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Plum Sauce Pork

Creating this delicious One-Pan Plum Sauce Pork is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to become a favorite:

Salt, pepper, and flour mixed together in a clear glass bowl. — **Step 1: Prepare the Coating.** In a shallow dish or bowl, thoroughly mix together the flour, salt, and black pepper. This seasoned flour will create a light crust on the pork, helping it brown beautifully and seal in juices.

Olive oil being heated in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. — **Step 2: Heat the Skillet.** Place a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and allow it to heat until shimmering, indicating it’s ready for searing. A properly heated pan is key for a good sear.

A piece of pork loin being coated with the flour mixture in a medium glass bowl. — **Step 3: Coat the Pork.** Dredge each piece of pork loin in the flour mixture, ensuring both sides are evenly coated. Lightly shake off any excess flour to prevent a gummy texture.

Four pieces of flour-coated pork loin chops placed in the hot skillet. — **Step 4: Sear the Pork.** Carefully place the flour-coated pork chops into the hot, oiled skillet. Ensure not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, sear in batches to allow for proper browning.

Four browned pork chops cooking in the frying pan. — **Step 5: Brown the Pork.** Fry the pork chops over medium-high heat for about 2-3 minutes per side, turning only once. The goal here is to achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust, not to cook the pork through completely. It will finish cooking in the sauce later.

All remaining ingredients (except chow mein noodles) added to the skillet with browned pork. — **Step 6: Add Sauce & Vegetables.** Reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the plum sauce, orange juice, orange zest, and hot pepper flakes into the pan. Then, add the shredded carrots, both red and green bell peppers (julienned), chopped green onion, and grated fresh ginger. Distribute them evenly around the pork.

Cooked pork with vegetables simmering in the plum sauce in the pan. — **Step 7: Simmer to Perfection.** Cover the skillet and allow the dish to cook for approximately 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering time allows the pork to cook through and absorb all the delicious flavors. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature of the pork should reach 145°F (62°C). The peppers should still retain a slight crunch, indicating they are perfectly cooked and not overdone. Note that thinner cuts of meat may require less cooking time.

Plum Sauce Pork garnished with crispy chow mein noodles in the frying pan. — **Step 8: Garnish & Serve.** Once cooked, garnish with crispy/dry chow mein noodles, if desired. We personally love mixing these noodles in during the last minute of cooking so they absorb some of the sauce and soften slightly. Serve your delectable Plum Sauce Pork immediately over a bed of fluffy rice or a lighter cauliflower rice on a beautiful serving platter.

Plum glazed pork chop recipe served in a white bowl with a brownish-orange napkin in the background. — A close-up of the finished Plum Sauce Pork, ready to be enjoyed.

Expert Recipe Tips for Perfect Plum Sauce Pork

Achieving perfectly tender pork and flavorful vegetables in this dish is easy with these expert tips:

Brown, Don’t Cook Through: The initial searing of the pork is all about developing flavor and a beautiful golden crust. Aim for a nice brown exterior but avoid cooking the pork completely at this stage. The simmering in the sauce will gently finish the cooking, allowing the meat to absorb all the delicious glaze and remain incredibly juicy.
Ensure Pork is Tender and Juicy: Overcooked pork can be dry and tough. The most reliable way to ensure your pork is perfectly cooked—tender and juicy—is by using an instant-read thermometer (affiliate link). Insert it into the thickest part of the pork; it should register 145°F (62°C) for safe consumption and optimal tenderness. This small tool is a game-changer for pork dishes!
Don’t Skip the Zest: The orange zest might seem like a small addition, but it adds a significant bright, citrusy note that beautifully cuts through and complements the sweetness of the plum sauce. Use a microplane or a fine grater to only get the orange part of the peel, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath.
Keep the Vegetables Crisp: For a pleasant textural contrast, you want the bell peppers and carrots to retain a slight crunch. Cut them into uniform pieces so they cook evenly, and be careful not to overcook them during the simmering stage. They should be tender-crisp, not mushy.
Don’t Crowd the Pan: When browning the pork chops, if your skillet isn’t large enough to hold all pieces with space between them, brown them in batches. Overcrowding the pan lowers the temperature and causes the pork to steam rather than sear, resulting in a less flavorful and less attractive brown crust.
Freeze and Grate Fresh Ginger: This is a fantastic time-saving hack! Store your fresh ginger root in a small freezer bag in the freezer. When you need it, simply pull it out, peel a section with a carrot peeler, and grate it directly into your food using a microplane. Frozen ginger is much easier to grate and lasts for several months, saving both time and waste.

Generous Serving Size

This savory plum sauce pork recipe yields 4 satisfying servings. Planning for more or fewer diners? No problem! Most recipe cards allow you to easily adjust the serving number, and the ingredient quantities will automatically scale to your needs. This makes it incredibly convenient for intimate dinners or larger family gatherings.

Plum glazed pork chops served in a white bowl with a brownish-orange napkin in the background. — A perfectly plated serving of Plum Sauce Pork.

Weight Watchers Friendly

For those tracking their intake, this recipe is a fantastic choice! It comes in at approximately 4 Weight Watchers points per serving. If you opt for boneless pork loin, which is often leaner, you can bring the points down further, typically to 7 WW points. Please note that these points do not include any optional crunchy chow mein noodle topping or the type of rice you choose to serve it with.

Top Tip for Serving Company

The microwave is not your dinner party friend! When preparing this meal ahead of time for guests, I highly recommend reheating it on the stovetop rather than in the microwave. From personal experience, microwave reheating tends to heat food unevenly and, more importantly, it cools down very quickly once served. Reheating gently on the stovetop (covered, over medium-low heat) preserves the delicious flavors and ensures a warm, enjoyable meal for your company.

Storage & Make-Ahead Guide

This Plum Sauce Pork recipe is excellent for meal prep and make-ahead convenience:

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often meld and deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day!
Freezer: For longer storage, this dish freezes beautifully. Transfer the cooled pork and sauce into an airtight, freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.

What to Serve with Plum Pork

This versatile Plum Sauce Pork pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, creating a complete and satisfying meal:

Rice: The simplest and most classic accompaniment! Steamed white rice (jasmine or basmati) or brown rice is perfect for soaking up the delicious plum sauce. For a lighter option, cauliflower rice works beautifully.
Noodles: As mentioned, crispy chow mein noodles can be a garnish or mixed in for a textural delight. You could also serve it over soft stir-fried noodles for a heartier meal.
Potatoes: For a unique twist, try serving it over creamy Chipotle Mashed Potatoes – the smoky heat provides an interesting contrast to the sweet plum sauce.
Green Salad: A simple, fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette would offer a refreshing counterpoint to the rich pork.

Looking for appetizers or desserts to complete your meal? Consider these:

For an effortless and elegant start, try Caprese Salad Sticks or classic Bruschetta with Baguette. Both are quick to prepare and universally loved.
And if you’re in need of a make-ahead dessert that’s truly company-worthy, our No-Bake Black Forest Tiramisu is an absolute crowd-pleaser, perfect for impressing guests without last-minute stress.
For a lighter, yet equally delightful sweet ending, our Light & Healthy Carrot Cake offers a guilt-free indulgence.

A fantastic make-ahead dessert: No-Bake Black Forest Tiramisu.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can this Plum Pork be made ahead?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It even freezes well for up to 3 months, making it an ideal candidate for future busy weeknights or unexpected guests. Just pull it out, thaw, and reheat!

What’s the best way to reheat this dish?

If frozen, first defrost the dish in the refrigerator overnight. To reheat, the best method is on the stovetop. Place the contents in a skillet, cover, and warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. This gentle reheating process helps to preserve the pork’s tenderness and prevents the sauce from drying out. Avoid using the microwave, especially if serving guests, as it tends to heat unevenly and the food can cool down very quickly once removed from the microwave.

What if I can’t find plum sauce?

Plum sauce is usually quite easy to find in most grocery stores, typically in the Asian or international foods aisle. However, if it’s unavailable or you prefer a homemade option, you can quickly whip up your own (refer to our variations and substitutions section for links or ideas!). Alternatively, hoisin sauce makes an excellent substitute, offering a similar sweet, tangy, and savory flavor profile that will work wonderfully in this recipe.

Can I use chicken instead of pork?

Yes, absolutely! Chicken breast or thigh, cut into similar-sized pieces, would be a fantastic substitute for pork. The cooking time might be slightly adjusted (chicken generally cooks faster than pork loin), but the flavors of the plum sauce, ginger, and peppers would complement chicken beautifully. Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Plum pork chops in a speckled black frying pan on a white surface with scattered chow mein noodles, highlighting the one-pan convenience. — The ultimate one-pan meal: Plum Sauce Pork, ready to serve!

This one-pan plum pork has been a cherished recipe for years, praised for its incredible juiciness, ease of preparation, and fantastic flavor. If you’re searching for delightful dinners that are not only company-worthy but also incredibly easy to make and convenient for meal prep, then this Pork with Plum Sauce is an absolute must-try. It’s a healthy, quick, and satisfying meal that will quickly earn a spot in your regular dinner rotation!

More Delicious Pork Dinner Recipes You’ll Love

Easy Thai Pork Noodles
Marinated Maple BBQ Pork Loin Steaks
WW Pork with Creamy Mustard Caper Sauce
Apple Sage Pork Chops

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Plum Sauce Pork Recipe

Healthy and quick, this easy One-Pan Plum Sauce Pork with carrots, peppers, and ginger is the perfect meal for after work, make-ahead, and is completely company worthy! It’s also WW friendly.

Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American (Asian-inspired)
Special Diet: Dairy-free, Weight Watchers friendly
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 384 kcal
Author: Terri Gilson

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 28 minutes

Equipment

Large skillet
Grater (or microplane)
Instant-read thermometer

Ingredients

4 slices pork loin (boneless or bone-in pork chops)
¼ cup flour
1 tablespoon olive oil
¼ teaspoon each salt and black pepper
1 cup shredded carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
2 green onions, chopped
½ red bell pepper, cored and sliced (julienned)
½ green bell pepper, cored and sliced (julienned)
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
⅔ cup plum sauce
4 tablespoon orange juice
¼ teaspoon hot pepper flakes/crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon orange zest

Garnish

Dry (crispy) chow mein noodles (optional)

Instructions

Mix flour, salt, and pepper together in a shallow dish.
In a large non-stick skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
Coat both sides of each pork slice with the flour mixture and place them into the hot, oiled pan.
Fry pork over medium-high heat, turning once, for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until beautifully browned. (You want to brown them, not cook them through at this stage.)
Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in the plum sauce, orange juice, orange zest, and hot pepper flakes. Add the shredded carrots, red and green bell peppers, chopped green onion, and grated ginger to the pan.
Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure doneness; the internal temperature of the pork should reach 145°F (62°C). The peppers should still have a slight crunch. Note: If your meat is cut thinner, it may require less cooking time.
Serve hot over rice or cauliflower rice.

Garnish:

Garnish with crispy/dry chow mein noodles, if desired. We prefer to mix these noodles in, as they get a bit soft and absorb some sauce.

Notes

Recipe Tips:

Brown, Don’t Cook Through: Sear the pork for a golden crust; it will finish cooking while simmering in the sauce.
Ensure Pork is Tender and Juicy: Use an instant-read thermometer to check for 145°F (62°C) internal temperature for perfectly cooked pork.
Don’t Skip the Zest: Orange zest adds a crucial bright, citrusy note that complements the plum sauce.
Keep Vegetables Crisp: Cut vegetables uniformly and avoid overcooking them to retain a pleasant crunch.
Don’t Crowd the Pan: Brown pork in batches if necessary to ensure searing, not steaming.
Freeze Fresh Ginger: Store ginger in the freezer; it’s easier to grate and lasts longer!

Storage:

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

WW Points:

This recipe is 9 Weight Watchers points per serving with bone-in pork chops. If you use boneless pork (which is often leaner), it brings the meal down to 7 WW points per serving.
*NOTE: Points do not include optional crunchy chow mein noodle topping or rice.

Nutrition

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