Starch-based foams are considered as one of the most promising biodegradable foams to replace petroleum-based foams, and the regulation of the pore distribution and the improvement of performance are the most important issues in the development of starch-based foams. Based on the research progress on the preparation and performance improvement of starch-based foaming materials in recent years, firstly, the role and research directions of the main components of starch-based composite foaming materials are analyzed. Secondly, the preparation process characteristics of foaming materials and the process conditions affecting foaming are summarized in detail. Then, the research on the performance improvement of starch-based foaming materials is summarized, and the foaming process and the influencing factors are discussed. Finally, the characterization methods of internal pores are introduced, in order to contribute to the further development of starch-based foaming materials.