Penne Pasta with Tender Pork: A Comforting and Flavorful Dish

Penne Pasta with Tender Pork is a dish that combines hearty pasta, succulent pork, and a rich, savory sauce to create a meal that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe is a fantastic choice for family dinners, gatherings, or when you want to treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home. Let’s dive into the detailed recipe, along with tips and tricks to perfect this dish.

Ingredients

You’ll need fresh ingredients to ensure maximum flavor:

For the pork marinade:

• 1 pound (450g) pork tenderloin, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the pasta and sauce:

• 12 ounces (340g) penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14 ounces/400g) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter option)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

this Recipe

1: Marinate the pork

1. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the sliced pork tenderloin to the marinade. Toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.

2: Cook the pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
2. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and then drain the rest. Set the pasta aside.

3: Sear the pork

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated pork slices in a single layer. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside.

4: Prepare the sauce

1. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring well to combine. Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes to thicken.
4. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, oregano, and basil. Mix well until the sauce is creamy and smooth.

5: Combine everything

1. Add the cooked pasta and seared pork back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and pork are well-coated with the sauce.
2. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

6: Serve and garnish

1. Divide the pasta into serving bowls or plates.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Tips and Variations

1. Pork Alternatives:
   If you don’t have pork tenderloin, you can use boneless pork chops, pork shoulder, or even chicken as a substitute.
2. Spice It Up:
   Add more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
3. Vegetarian Option:
   Replace the pork with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for a vegetarian-friendly version.
4. Cheese Choices:
   Experiment with different cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Gruyère for a unique flavor twist.
5. Make Ahead:
   You can prepare the sauce and marinate the pork in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, then cook and assemble when ready to serve.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Serves 4

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g

FAQs About Penne Pasta with Tender Pork

1. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze Penne Pasta with Tender Pork! Allow the dish to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to refresh the sauce.

2. What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh Caesar salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli.

3. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with other pasta shapes like rigatoni, fusilli, or fettuccine. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta are also great options.

4. How do I prevent the pork from drying out?
Marinating the pork helps keep it tender and juicy. Additionally, avoid overcooking it—pork tenderloin cooks quickly and only needs a few minutes on each side.

5. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative for a creamy, dairy-free version.

Conclusion

Penne Pasta with Tender Pork is a versatile and satisfying dish that brings the warmth of Italian-inspired flavors to your table. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a casual weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. Its creamy sauce, tender pork, and perfectly cooked penne make it a crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make again and again.

Try this recipe today, and let the delightful aroma and taste of this dish turn your mealtime into a memorable experience!

Penne Pasta with Tender Pork is the ultimate comfort food! Creamy sauce, tender pork, and perfectly cooked pasta make this a family favorite. Looking for more recipes? Check out Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells, The Best Ever Stuffed Mushroom Dip, and Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni. Save this pin and follow for more: Pinterest – EMMARECIPES18!

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