This Pork Bolognese Pasta is a hearty dish with rich flavors. The tender pork is mixed with tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, creating a delicious sauce that clings to your favorite pasta.
There’s something so comforting about this meal—it’s like a warm hug on a plate! I love to top it with grated cheese for that extra yum factor. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for any day of the week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Tagliatelle or pappardelle work great for this dish, as they hold the sauce well. If you can’t find them, any pasta like fettuccine or even spaghetti is fine. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also be swapped in.
Ground Pork: This gives a rich flavor, but you can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Even a mix of beef and pork can add a different twist. Just remember, the fat content affects the sauce’s richness!
Wine: I really enjoy using dry white wine for depth. If you’re not a fan of alcohol or don’t have any, you can skip it and add a bit more broth or even a splash of vinegar for acidity.
Herbs: Dried oregano and basil are classic staples here. Fresh herbs would add more flavor! If fresh herbs are available, use about three times the amount. Or try adding a bay leaf while simmering for an extra punch.
How Can I Perfectly Cook the Sauce for My Bolognese?
The sauce is the heart of Bolognese. Start by slowly sautéing your veggies to build flavor before adding the meat. Here’s how to get that rich, comforting sauce:
- Use medium heat when cooking onions and carrots; don’t rush this step—let them soften and release their sweetness.
- Brown the pork on medium-high heat, as this caramelization adds depth. Stir often while breaking it up.
- Simmer the sauce gently for at least 20 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully. If you run low on sauce, add a bit of that reserved pasta water.
How to Make Pork Bolognese Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) tagliatelle or pappardelle pasta
For the Bolognese Sauce:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground pork
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced (optional)
- 14 oz (400 g) canned diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1/2 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Pork Bolognese Pasta will take about 40 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend 10 minutes cooking the pasta and about 30 minutes making the Bolognese sauce. It’s a quick yet satisfying dish to whip up for dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your tagliatelle or pappardelle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. When it’s done, drain the pasta but remember to reserve a cup of that pasta water for later. This water is like liquid gold for perfecting your sauce!
2. Sauté the Veggies:
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrot, and celery if you’re using it. Sauté these veggies for about 5 minutes or until they’re soft and fragrant. This step is important as it builds a nice base flavor for your sauce.
3. Add Garlic and Pork:
Now, toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for another 1-2 minutes until it becomes aromatic. Next, increase the heat to medium-high and add in the ground pork. Break up the meat with a spoon as it cooks until it browns completely, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
4. Build the Sauce:
Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for about a minute to deepen the flavor. If you’re using white wine, pour it in now and let it cook down for 2-3 minutes to evaporate some of the alcohol. Then, add the canned tomatoes, broth, oregano, and basil. Give everything a nice stir and bring it to a simmer.
5. Simmer the Sauce:
Reduce the heat to low and let your sauce simmer gently for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. If it starts to thicken too much, you can add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. This is when all those delicious flavors meld together!
6. Final Touches:
Before serving, taste your sauce and season it with salt and pepper to your liking. Then, add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is nicely coated with the sauce.
7. Serve:
Dish out your comforting Pork Bolognese Pasta onto plates, topping each serving with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a dash of chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color. Enjoy your meal!
Let me know if you have any questions while cooking, and savor every bite of this delicious dish!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat for the Bolognese?
Absolutely! While ground pork is delicious for this recipe, you can easily substitute it with ground beef, turkey, or chicken if you prefer. Each will bring a slightly different flavor to the dish.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Bolognese Sauce?
Leftover Bolognese sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Make This Recipe Whole30 or Paleo Friendly?
Yes! You can omit the wine and use a compliant broth while sticking to whole ingredients. Additionally, swapping out the pasta for spiralized veggies like zucchini or squash would make it Whole30 and Paleo-friendly.
What Should I Serve with Pork Bolognese Pasta?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some garlic bread. For a lighter side, try roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli to balance out the meal!