Get ready to transform your kitchen into a rustic Italian trattoria with this mouthwatering Rigatoni with Spicy Pork Ragu! This isn't just another pasta dish - it's a culinary adventure that combines hearty ground pork, fiery red pepper flakes, and rich tomato sauce, creating a meal that's guaranteed to impress even the most discerning food lovers. Perfect for a cozy dinner or when you want to elevate your weeknight cooking game, this recipe promises bold flavors and comfort in every single bite.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz rigatoni
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 12 oz of rigatoni, 1 lb of ground pork, 1 chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 can (14 oz) of crushed tomatoes, 1 tsp of red pepper flakes, 2 tbsp of olive oil, salt and pepper to taste, and fresh basil for garnish.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and soft.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Next, add the ground pork to the skillet. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
- Once the pork is browned, pour in the can of crushed tomatoes. Stir to combine all the ingredients and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- After the ragu has simmered, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Once the rigatoni is cooked and drained, add it directly to the skillet with the spicy pork ragu. Toss gently to coat the pasta in the sauce, ensuring each piece is well-covered.
- Serve the rigatoni hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves for added flavor and presentation. Enjoy your delicious Rigatoni with Spicy Pork Ragu!
Tips
- Always reserve some pasta water before draining - its starchy goodness helps create a silky sauce and helps the ragu cling perfectly to the rigatoni.
- For maximum flavor, use high-quality ground pork and don't rush the browning process. Let the meat develop a nice golden color to enhance the dish's depth.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes according to your spice tolerance. Start with less and add more if you want extra heat.
- Fresh basil is key for garnishing - chop it right before serving to maintain its vibrant flavor and aroma.
- If you want to make the dish ahead, the ragu actually tastes even better after sitting for a few hours, allowing the flavors to intensify.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 85mg
