Pork and Pasta is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender, juicy pork with perfectly cooked pasta in a savory tomato-based sauce. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. The pork is seared to lock in its juices and then simmered with garlic, onions, tomatoes, and herbs, creating a rich and robust sauce that coats every strand of pasta. With its delightful blend of flavors and textures, Pork and Pasta is a dish that will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb pork tenderloin or pork chops, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 12 oz pasta (such as penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Sear the Pork:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork pieces and sear them for 4-5 minutes, or until they are browned on all sides. Remove the pork from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Return the seared pork to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine with Pasta:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Serve:
- Serve the Pork and Pasta hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil or parsley.
Pork and Pasta is a deliciously comforting dish that brings together the heartiness of pork with the satisfying simplicity of pasta. The rich tomato sauce and aromatic herbs make this meal both flavorful and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion when you crave a warm, home-cooked dinner.
