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Some of the best meals aren’t planned; they just happen. This creamy garlic pork spaghetti was one of those dishes that came together unexpectedly on a busy evening when I had little time and only a handful of ingredients.
I remember standing in the kitchen, staring at the fridge, trying to figure out what to make for dinner. There was some leftover pork, a block of cheese, and a half-used carton of milk. I had spaghetti in the pantry, and that was all the inspiration I needed.
As the pasta boiled, I seared the pork in a pan, letting the garlic sizzle and release its irresistible aroma. Then came the sauce—thick, creamy, and infused with the perfect balance of cheese and paprika. The moment I tossed the spaghetti into the sauce, I knew I had created something special.
When I served it, my family’s reaction was all I needed to confirm it was a winner. They loved the rich, velvety sauce combined with the tender pork and perfectly cooked pasta. It was a simple dish, but it had everything—flavor, texture, and that comforting warmth that only home-cooked meals can bring.
Now, this recipe has become a go-to in our house. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying—perfect for those nights when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
Why This Pasta Recipe Is a Must-Try
1. Quick and Easy for Busy Days
You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to make a satisfying meal. This creamy pork spaghetti comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights when time is limited.
2. Rich, Creamy, and Packed with Flavor
The combination of garlic, butter, and cheese creates a luscious, velvety sauce that clings to every strand of spaghetti. The paprika adds warmth, while the pork brings a savory depth to the dish.
3. A Budget-Friendly, Simple Meal
With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality pasta dish at home. Pork breast is an affordable yet flavorful protein that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
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4. Perfect for the Whole Family
This dish has a mild yet rich flavor that appeals to both kids and adults. It’s not too spicy, but if you like heat, you can easily add some chili flakes for an extra kick.
5. A Versatile Recipe with Endless Variations
While this recipe is already delicious as is, you can easily customize it by swapping ingredients or adding extras like mushrooms, spinach, or crispy bacon.
Ingredients
For the Spaghetti and Pork:
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Spaghetti | 250 g |
Pork breast | 200 g, sliced |
Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
Butter | 40 g |
Salt | To taste |
Black pepper | To taste |
Flour | 1 tablespoon |
Milk | 300 ml |
Cheese | 100 g, grated (cheddar or mozzarella) |
Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
Fresh parsley & dill | For garnish |
Directions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Boil spaghetti in salted water according to package instructions.
- Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
2. Prepare the Pork
- Heat olive oil and half the butter in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the sliced pork and cook until golden brown.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Make the Sauce
- Lower the heat and sprinkle flour over the pork, stirring well.
- Gradually pour in milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Add grated cheese, paprika, salt, and black pepper, stirring until smooth.
4. Combine Everything
- Toss the cooked spaghetti into the sauce, mixing well to coat.
- Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for a silkier texture.
5. Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and dill before serving.
- Enjoy warm for the best creamy, cheesy goodness!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | ~480 kcal |
Protein | ~22 g |
Carbohydrates | ~50 g |
Fats | ~20 g |
Fiber | ~3 g |
Calcium | ~180 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Yes! While pork breast is tender and flavorful, you can also use chicken, turkey, or even beef. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat is fully cooked.
2. What Can I Use Instead of Milk for the Sauce?
If you prefer a richer sauce, you can use heavy cream instead of milk. For a lighter version, you can substitute milk with a mix of chicken broth and a splash of cream.
3. Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free pasta and swap the regular flour for a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or rice flour to thicken the sauce.
4. What Type of Cheese Works Best in This Recipe?
Cheddar and mozzarella are great choices because they melt well and add a creamy texture. You can also use Parmesan for a sharper, nuttier flavor or Gruyère for a gourmet touch.
5. How Can I Make the Sauce Thicker?
If your sauce seems too thin, let it simmer for a few extra minutes until it thickens. You can also add a little more flour or cheese to achieve the desired consistency.
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6. Can I Use Pre-Cooked Pork?
Yes! If you have leftover roasted or grilled pork, simply slice it thinly and add it to the pan after the garlic and butter. Since it’s already cooked, just warm it through before making the sauce.
7. What Side Dishes Pair Well with This Pasta?
This dish is rich and creamy, so it pairs well with lighter sides like:
- A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
- Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus
- Garlic bread or a crusty baguette for dipping into the sauce
8. How Can I Add More Vegetables to This Dish?
To make this meal more nutritious, try adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Simply cook them alongside the pork or stir them into the sauce.
9. Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can make the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove and toss with freshly cooked spaghetti.
10. Can I Freeze This Pasta Dish?
Cream-based sauces don’t always freeze well as they can separate when reheated. However, you can freeze the cooked pork and sauce separately and add fresh pasta when serving.
Conclusion: A Pasta Dish That Feels Like Home
There’s something truly comforting about a good pasta dish—especially one that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. This creamy garlic pork spaghetti is more than just a meal; it’s a reminder that great food doesn’t have to be complicated.
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Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or just treating yourself, this dish delivers on every level. It’s easy to make, full of rich, savory flavors, and guaranteed to leave everyone asking for seconds.
So the next time you need a quick, satisfying meal, give this recipe a try. It might just become your new favorite go-to dinner—just like it did for me.
PrintCreamy Garlic Pork Spaghetti – A Hearty Family Favorite
This creamy garlic pork spaghetti is a perfect family meal that comes together in minutes. Tender slices of pork breast are cooked in a rich, cheesy garlic sauce and tossed with perfectly cooked spaghetti for a comforting dish that’s both simple and delicious. Serve it with fresh herbs and enjoy a homemade pasta dish that’s better than takeout!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: European
Ingredients
- 250 g spaghetti
- 200 g pork breast, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 40 g butter
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 300 ml milk
- 100 g cheese (grated, preferably cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Fresh parsley and dill, for garnish
Instructions
-
Cook the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside, reserving a small amount of pasta water.
-
Cook the Pork
- Heat olive oil and half of the butter in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the sliced pork and cook until golden brown.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
-
Prepare the Sauce
- Reduce the heat and sprinkle flour over the pork, stirring well.
- Slowly pour in the milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
- Add grated cheese, paprika, salt, and black pepper, stirring until smooth and creamy.
-
Combine Everything
- Toss the cooked spaghetti into the sauce, mixing well to coat.
- If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
-
Serve and Garnish
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and dill before serving.
- Enjoy warm for the best creamy, cheesy flavor!
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
- Use chicken or turkey instead of pork for a lighter version.
- For a richer sauce, substitute heavy cream for the milk.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.