Mezzi Rigatoni Pasta with Calabrian Pulled Pork Red Sauce
Mezzi Rigatoni Pasta with Calabrian Pulled Pork Red Sauce
2 hours 50 minutes total
Discover a rich and savory pasta dish that brings together the robust flavors of Italian cooking with the smoky, slow-cooked essence of Austin-style pulled pork. This Mezzi Rigatoni pasta recipe features tender pork shoulder braised with rosemary and thyme, then simmered in a spicy Calabrian pepper and tomato sauce. Tossed with perfectly cooked Barilla® Mezzi Rigatoni, this dish delivers a dish perfect for slow weekends and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Serves 8
Ingredients for Mezzi Rigatoni Pasta with Calabrian Pulled Pork Sauce:
| 1 | Box Barilla® Mezzi Rigatoni pasta |
| 1 | Pound pork shoulder |
| 4 | Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided |
| 1/2 | Cup onion, small dice |
| 1 | Teaspoon paprika |
| 1 | Teaspoon adobo seasoning |
| 1/4 | Cup Calabrian peppers, chopped |
| 2 | Cups chicken broth |
| 1 | 28-counce can crushed tomatoes |
| 2 | Tablespoons tomato paste |
| 2 | Sprigs rosemary |
| 2 | Sprigs thyme |
| 1/4 | Cup parsley, chopped |
| To Taste | Salt and black pepper |
Disclaimer
Individuals with allergies or specific dietary concerns should verify that the ingredients they utilize for the recipes comply with their restrictions.
Method
Step 1
Preheat oven to 300° F. Rub pork shoulder with paprika, adobo, salt, and pepper.
Step 2
In a Dutch oven or cast-iron skillet on high heat add ½ of the olive oil and sear pork on all sides. Add rosemary, thyme, and chicken broth. Place covered Dutch oven in the oven for 2-2 ½ hrs. or until fork tender.
Step 3
Shred pork and set aside, reserving 1 cup of the pork juices.
Step 4
In a skillet over medium heat add remaining olive oil and onion. Sauté until translucent, about 2-3 min. then add crushed tomato, Calabrian peppers, tomato paste and ½ of the reserved liquid. Bring to a simmer, season, and add pork.
Step 5
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook pasta according to package directions, drain, add to the sauce, and mix well.
Step 6
Check sauce consistency and add remaining liquid if too thick. Remove from the fire and top with parsley before serving.
Mezzi Rigatoni
Mezzi Rigatoni combines the heartiness of traditional Rigatoni – a cut that is most commonly used in Southern and Central Italy – with a smaller size, which makes for a charming variation of an old favorite. It’s sure to delight your family and friends.
Barilla® Mezzi Rigatoni is made with non-GMO ingredients. For more information, please read our position.
- Shape Mezzi Rigatoni
- Cook time 10–11 mins
- Pack size 16 oz.
- Range Classic Blue Box