This Pork Bolognese Pasta is a comforting dish filled with rich flavors. It’s made with tender pork, tomatoes, and herbs, all simmered to perfection!
You know what’s great? It’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering scents. I often enjoy it with a sprinkle of cheese on top—total yum! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Tagliatelle or fettuccine works best here, but you can swap it for spaghetti or penne. Fresh pasta is lovely if you can find it, and it cooks quicker!
Ground Pork: This recipe shines with ground pork, but you could use ground beef, turkey, or even a mix of meats if you prefer. Make sure it’s not too lean for better flavor.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is my go-to for cooking the base. If you need a different option, avocado oil or butter also works well.
White Wine: The wine adds depth, but you can skip it or substitute with chicken broth or extra broth for a non-alcoholic version. Just make sure to reduce any liquid accordingly.
Milk/Cream: Whole milk adds creaminess, but you can use half-and-half or a plant-based milk if preferred. Just keep an eye on flavors and texture!
How Do I Get My Sauce to Develop Great Flavor?
A rich flavor can make or break this dish! Start by sautéing your onions, garlic, carrots, and celery (the mirepoix). This builds the foundation of flavor. Don’t rush it—cook until soft!
- Brown the ground pork thoroughly; this adds a nice depth of flavor.
- If using wine, let it reduce to concentrate its taste.
- Simmer the sauce gently; the longer you let it simmer, the deeper the flavor becomes. Don’t rush this step!
- Lastly, the milk or cream helps balance acidity and adds a lovely richness.
Pork Bolognese Pasta Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) tagliatelle or fettuccine pasta
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, finely diced
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced
- 1 lb (450 g) ground pork
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 can (14 oz/400 g) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1/4 cup whole milk or cream
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Pork Bolognese Pasta takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 30-40 minutes to cook, for a total of about 55 minutes. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tagliatelle or fettuccine pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Once ready, drain the pasta and set it aside for later. This will be your delicious base!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté these together for about 5-7 minutes, until they’re softened and the onion becomes translucent.
3. Add Garlic and Pork:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Next, add the ground pork to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up and cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink, which should take about 6-8 minutes.
4. Deglaze the Pan:
If you’re using white wine, pour it in now and allow it to cook for 2-3 minutes. This helps to deglaze the pan, pulling up those tasty bits stuck to the bottom!
5. Combine the Sauces:
Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth to the pan. Mix in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine.
6. Simmer the Sauce:
Reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan partially and let the sauce simmer gently for about 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
7. Final Touches:
After simmering, stir in the milk or cream to add richness to the sauce. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes. Give the sauce a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt or pepper to your liking.
8. Combine and Serve:
Now, you can either toss the cooked pasta with the Bolognese sauce in the skillet or plate the pasta and spoon the sauce on top. Both options are delectable!
9. Garnish:
Finish off your dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Enjoy your hearty, savory Pork Bolognese Pasta with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal!
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Pork?
Absolutely! Ground beef is a great substitute if you prefer it over pork. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and you’ll still have a delicious Bolognese sauce!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make the dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta. There are many excellent options available, such as brown rice or chickpea pasta, that will work beautifully in this recipe.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze any leftover Bolognese sauce! Store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
What Can I Pair with Pork Bolognese Pasta?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or a side of roasted vegetables. A glass of red wine also complements the flavors beautifully!
