Penne Pasta with Tender Pork: A Comforting and Flavorful Dish

There’s nothing quite like a big bowl of pasta to bring comfort to the table, and this Penne Pasta with Tender Pork does just that! Slow-cooked, melt-in-your-mouth pork combined with al dente penne pasta and a rich, savory sauce—this dish is packed with deep flavors that make every bite unforgettable.

Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or looking for a meal that tastes like it came straight from a rustic Italian kitchen, this recipe delivers. The best part? It’s easier to make than you think! Let’s dive into this deliciously hearty dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and hearty – The slow-simmered pork creates a deep, comforting flavor.
Simple, everyday ingredients – No complicated ingredients, just pantry staples that work magic together.
Perfect for leftovers – The flavors get even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.
Easily customizable – Swap out the pork, adjust the seasoning, or use your favorite pasta shape.

What Does Penne Pasta with Tender Pork Taste Like?

This dish is the perfect mix of savory, slightly tangy, and rich flavors. The pork is slow-cooked until it’s fall-apart tender, absorbing all the deliciousness of the sauce—whether it’s a tomato-based sauce, a creamy garlic variation, or a wine-infused reduction. The penne pasta holds onto the sauce beautifully, ensuring every forkful is satisfying and packed with flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish:

For the Pork:

1 lb pork shoulder or pork tenderloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup chicken or beef broth
½ cup red wine (optional, but adds great depth)
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta:

12 oz penne pasta
1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)

Optional Garnishes:

Fresh basil, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese
Extra drizzle of olive oil

Kitchen Tools Needed

Large skillet or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon for stirring
Cutting board and sharp knife
Large pot for boiling pasta
Colander for draining pasta

How to Make Penne Pasta with Tender Pork

1. Sear the Pork

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add the pork pieces, season with salt and pepper, and sear them until browned on all sides (about 4-5 minutes).
Remove the pork and set aside.

2. Build the Sauce

In the same skillet, sauté the onions until softened, about 3 minutes.
Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the red wine (if using) and let it simmer for a minute to deglaze the pan.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.

3. Slow Simmer Until Tender

Return the seared pork to the pan, stirring to coat in the sauce.
Cover and let it simmer on low heat for about 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pork is fork-tender.

4. Cook the Pasta

While the pork simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions.
Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water.

5. Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the pork and sauce.
Toss well to coat, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if needed for a silkier texture.

6. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
Drizzle with a little olive oil for extra richness.
Serve hot and enjoy!

What to Serve with Penne Pasta and Tender Pork

This dish pairs beautifully with:

A fresh green salad – A simple arugula or Caesar salad balances the richness.
Garlic bread – Because who doesn’t love mopping up that delicious sauce?
Roasted vegetables – Try roasted asparagus or zucchini for a healthy side.
A glass of red wine – A medium-bodied wine like Chianti complements the flavors perfectly.

Tips for the Best Penne Pasta with Tender Pork

Use the right cut of pork – Pork shoulder works best for slow cooking, while tenderloin is a great quick-cooking option.
Don’t rush the simmering process – Let the pork cook low and slow for maximum tenderness.
Save some pasta water – Adding a splash of pasta water helps create a silkier sauce.
Taste and adjust – Before serving, give the sauce a taste and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing

This dish freezes well! Let it cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! The flavors actually improve as they sit, so you can make it a day in advance and reheat when ready to serve.

What can I substitute for red wine?

You can skip it altogether or replace it with beef broth, balsamic vinegar, or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes! Rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti work just as well.

How can I make this dish spicy?

Increase the red pepper flakes or add a chopped fresh chili for an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

This Penne Pasta with Tender Pork is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with eager appetites and happy hearts. It’s rich, comforting, and packed with incredible flavors—yet simple enough to make any night of the week. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite.

If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below or share a photo on Pinterest. Happy cooking! 🍽️