" " " " Utah Pork Producers Ground Pork 3 Ways

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Utah Pork Producers Ground Pork 3 Ways

**Registration Opens August 1st, 2026**

THURSDAY, SEPT 17, 2026

Location: Competition Kitchen in the Zion Building

Check In: 6:00 pm

Cooking: 6:30-7:30 pm
Entries Judged: As Entries Are Finished

Prizes:

  • 1st Place: $250
  • 2nd Place: $150
  • 3rd Place: $100

What You Need To Know

  • FREE to Enter – registration required
  • Open to anyone 18+ and older
  • Only 10 spots available
  • Premium Ground Pork provided by the Pork Producers of Utah
  • Bring your own spices, marinades, pots, pans, plates etc. We will have a minimal amount of spices/oil on sight.


Think you've got what it takes to transform a simple package of ground pork into something spectacular? Here's your chance to show off your creativity in the kitchen!

The Utah Pork Producers Association invites home cooks and food enthusiasts to enter the Ground Pork 3 Ways Challenge at the Utah State Fair. Contestants will create three unique bite-sized dishes featuring ground pork as the star ingredient. From savory appetizers and international flavors to comfort-food favorites and innovative creations, the possibilities are endless!

As we celebrate America's 250th Anniversary, we're honoring the spirit of innovation that has shaped our nation's food traditions. Ground pork is one of the most versatile ingredients in the kitchen, and we can't wait to see how you reinvent classic recipes or create something entirely new.

Whether you're a seasoned cook or simply love experimenting with new recipes, this challenge is a fun opportunity to showcase your culinary skills, compete for prizes, and share your passion for great food.

Challenge yourself. Get creative.

Three dishes. One ingredient. Endless possibilities.


SPONSORED BY

Celebrate Utah's Farms & Flavors

This contest honors our local producers and community spirit that brings us together.

Official Rules

  1. Ground Pork provided by Utah Pork Producers
  2. 45- 60 minutes cook time – includes prep, cooking, and plating
  3. Submit 3 different bite size dishes for judging, remember to make one for display.
  4. No pre-cooked food – all preparation and cooking must happen onsite
  5. Cleanliness counts! Gloves and sanitary practices required
SCORING MATRIX:

Category

Points

Description

Flavor

25

Seasoning, taste, balance, pork quality

Tenderness

25

Juiciness, texture, and proper doneness

Appearance

20

Plating, color, and visual appeal

Creativity

20

Unique flavors, methods, or presentation

Cleanliness

10

Sanitary prep and safe food handling

TOTAL

100

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