One Pot Spicy Pork Ragu with Orzo
Try this One Pot Spicy Pork Ragu with Orzo recipe.
Try this One Pot Spicy Pork Ragu with Orzo recipe.
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 medium carrot chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 1/4 cup red wine
- pinch of red pepper flakes
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 tbsp hot sauce i used sriracha
- 1 celery stalks chopped
- 1 1/2 cup dry orzo
- 20 oz can tomato juice
- fresh parmesan cheese for serving
- Carbohydrate 1.99026900032236 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 1.31089833385068 g
- Fiber 0.603194997648573 g
- Protein 0.606980000295574 g
- Saturated Fat 0.211232366755162 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (143g)
- Sodium 123.189328903208 mg
- Sugar 1.38707400267378 g
- Trans Fat 0.0579366333463751 g
- Calories 36 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large skillet or Dutch Oven heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add ground pork and cook until pork is no longer pink, breaking it up as you go along.
- Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrot to the skillet and cook for another 3 minutes until the onion and carrot are soft and the onion turns translucent.
- Stir in the red wine.
- Add the red pepper flakes, oregano, basil and stir well.
- Add the orzo, tomato juice, beef broth, hot sauce and stir well.
- Season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Reduce the heat to medium low and cook for about 10 to 12 minutes or until all of the liquid is absorbed, stirring occasionally.
- Garnish with parsley and serve with grated Parmesan cheese.
One Pot Spicy Pork Ragu with Orzo: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and healthy dinner can feel like a Herculean task. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and the never-ending cycle of laundry, the last thing I want is to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s why I’ve become a huge fan of one-pot meals – they're quick, easy, and minimize the cleanup! This One Pot Spicy Pork Ragu with Orzo is a perfect example. It's packed with flavor, surprisingly healthy, and comes together in under 30 minutes. Seriously, it's a lifesaver on those crazy weeknights.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You start by browning the ground pork in a large skillet or Dutch oven – I prefer the Dutch oven for its even heat distribution. Once the pork is cooked through, you simply add the chopped vegetables (onion, carrot, and celery) and sauté until softened. Then comes the magic – a splash of red wine to deglaze the pan, followed by a vibrant mix of herbs and spices. The orzo, tomato juice, beef broth, and a dash of hot sauce (I love sriracha!) are stirred in, and the whole thing simmers until the orzo is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
The result? A hearty, flavorful ragu that's perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. The orzo absorbs all the delicious flavors from the pork, vegetables, and spices, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. My kids absolutely devour this dish – even the picky eaters are always asking for seconds. And the best part? Minimal cleanup! Just one pot to wash – pure bliss after a long day.
This recipe is incredibly versatile, too. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables – zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms would all be delicious additions. You can also adjust the spice level to your liking, adding more or less red pepper flakes depending on your preference. For a richer flavor, try using a good quality beef broth, and don’t skimp on the fresh herbs – they make all the difference. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds the perfect finishing touch.
Beyond the convenience and deliciousness, this One Pot Spicy Pork Ragu with Orzo is also a surprisingly healthy option. It’s packed with protein from the pork, fiber from the vegetables and orzo, and a good dose of vitamins and minerals. It’s a much healthier alternative to takeout or other quick meals that often lack nutritional value. This dish makes a perfect balance between convenience and health.
So, the next time you're short on time but craving a flavorful and satisfying dinner, give this recipe a try. It's sure to become a new family favorite, just like it is in my house. It's a true testament to the fact that delicious and healthy dinners don't have to be complicated or time-consuming. Enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ground pork with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Add some greens: Stir in a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Make it ahead: This ragu can be made ahead of time and reheated. It actually tastes even better the next day!
- Serve it with: This dish is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with crusty bread, a simple salad, or roasted vegetables.
