This Pork Bolognese Pasta is a hearty and comforting dish with a flavorful sauce made from ground pork, tomatoes, and fresh herbs. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner!
Honestly, who can resist a big bowl of pasta topped with this rich, meaty sauce? It’s like a hug on a plate! 😋 I love making extra so I can enjoy leftovers the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using fresh fettuccine or tagliatelle for a lovely texture, but you can use any pasta shape you enjoy! Spaghetti or pappardelle work just as well.
Ground Pork: The star of this dish! If you need a healthier option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken. For a richer flavor, try using a mix of beef and pork.
Canned Crushed Tomatoes: These provide the sauce with great flavor. If you have fresh tomatoes, you can chop them up instead! Just make sure to adjust cooking time for the fresh ones.
White Wine: This adds depth to the sauce. If you prefer not to use wine, just add more broth or a little splash of lemon juice for acidity.
Milk/Cream: I usually add heavy cream for extra richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, low-fat milk, or even unsweetened almond milk!
How Do I Make Sure My Sauce is Full of Flavor?
The key to a flavorful Bolognese sauce is layering flavors. Start by sautéing your vegetables until they’re soft; this step builds a solid base. Cook ground pork until it’s browned, as this adds a nice rich taste. Don’t rush the simmering stage; give it time to meld the flavors together.
- Cook your veggies in olive oil on medium heat to get them soft, about 5-7 minutes.
- After adding the pork, make sure it’s cooked through and browned; this could take around 6-8 minutes.
- When you add in the crushed tomatoes, let the sauce simmer gently on low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors combine!
Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to taste as you go! Adjusting the seasoning can make a big difference.
Delicious Pork Bolognese Pasta Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) fettuccine or tagliatelle pasta
For the Bolognese Sauce:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground pork
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, finely diced
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes (or tomato passata)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1/2 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1/4 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful meal will take about 30-40 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping your ingredients, 20-30 minutes cooking the sauce, and 10-15 minutes boiling the pasta and combining everything. Perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add the fettuccine or tagliatelle pasta. Cook according to the package directions until the pasta is al dente. Once done, drain it and reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add in the finely diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté these for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and are fragrant.
3. Add Garlic and Cook the Pork:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute. This will add a nice aroma! Now, it’s time to add the ground pork. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks until it’s browned all the way through, which should take around 6-8 minutes.
4. Incorporate the Wine:
If you’re using white wine, pour it into the pan now. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until most of the alcohol has evaporated. This step is optional but adds a lovely depth of flavor!
5. Make the Sauce:
Stir in the canned crushed tomatoes, broth, dried oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Lower the heat and let your sauce simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes. This simmering really helps bring out those wonderful flavors!
6. Finish the Sauce:
After the sauce has simmered, stir in the milk or heavy cream. Let it cook for another 5 minutes, allowing everything to combine beautifully. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed!
7. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta into the sauce, mixing it together. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add in a little of the reserved pasta water to help it stick to the noodles.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
It’s time to serve your delicious Pork Bolognese Pasta! Plate it up and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley on top. Enjoy!
Bon appétit! This meal is sure to impress family and friends, so dig in and savor every bite!
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Pork?
Absolutely! Ground beef is a great substitute. Just make sure to brown it well, as it will provide a rich flavor similar to pork. Feel free to use a mix of beef and pork for extra depth!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap out traditional pasta for gluten-free pasta made from rice, quinoa, or another gluten-free alternative. Ensure that any broth or sauces you use are also labeled gluten-free.
Can I Freeze Leftover Bolognese Sauce?
Yes, you can freeze the leftover Bolognese sauce! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Should I Serve with Pork Bolognese Pasta?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. For a lighter option, you can serve it with steamed vegetables or a side of sautéed greens!
