The image above shows a beautifully sliced pork loin stuffed with a generous amount of spaghetti and topped with melted cheese. This creative dish combines succulent pork, creamy cheese, and hearty pasta for a filling meal that’s perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Comforting Combination: Combining two comfort foods—pasta and pork—into one savory dish.
- Cheesy Goodness: The cheese adds creaminess and flavor, making each bite irresistible.
- All-in-One Meal: The pork provides protein, the pasta gives a carb boost, and the cheese adds rich, satisfying flavors, making it a balanced dish.
Ingredients:
For 4-6 servings, you’ll need:
- 1 pork loin (about 1-1.5 kg / 2-3 lbs)
- 200g (7 oz) cooked spaghetti (or any long pasta)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- Aluminum foil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Prepare the Pork Loin
Place the pork loin on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, slice the pork loin into sections as shown in the image, creating small pockets or incisions but not cutting all the way through. This will create spaces to stuff the pasta.
Season the pork loin generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning on all sides, making sure to get seasoning into the cuts as well.
3. Cook the Spaghetti
Boil the spaghetti according to the package instructions, making sure it’s al dente. Drain the spaghetti and toss it with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of salt, and a dash of pepper.
4. Stuff the Pork Loin
Carefully take the cooked spaghetti and stuff it into the incisions of the pork loin, as shown in the image. You can add some cream to the spaghetti for an extra creamy texture before stuffing, or keep it simple with just the pasta and seasoning.
5. Top with Cheese
Generously top the spaghetti-stuffed pork loin with shredded cheese. Make sure the cheese covers both the spaghetti and the top of the pork, as this will melt into the dish and create a delicious cheesy crust.
6. Wrap in Foil
Wrap the entire pork loin in aluminum foil, leaving a slight opening at the top to allow the cheese to melt without burning. Place the foil-wrapped pork on a baking tray.
7. Bake
Bake the pork loin in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 65°C (145°F). During the last 10 minutes, open the foil completely to allow the cheese to brown and crisp up.
8. Serve
Once fully cooked, remove the pork loin from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables on the side for a complete meal.
Cook’s Notes:
- Pasta Alternatives: You can use other types of pasta like fettuccine, linguine, or even penne if you prefer. Just make sure the pasta fits well into the pork slices.
- Cheese Options: Try mixing different cheeses for a more complex flavor. Parmesan, Gruyère, or even blue cheese can be added for a twist.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the pork moist and the cheese melty.
FAQ:
Q: Can I use a different cut of pork?
A: Yes, you can also use pork tenderloin or pork chops, but the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness.
Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A: Absolutely! You can stuff some cooked spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms into the pork alongside the spaghetti for extra flavor and nutrition.
Q: What other sauces can I serve with this dish?
A: This dish pairs well with a side of marinara sauce, alfredo sauce, or even a simple garlic butter sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Pork Loin with Pasta Filling is a fantastic way to combine the rich flavors of pork, the creaminess of cheese, and the comfort of pasta into one delicious dish. It’s hearty, filling, and perfect for impressing guests or enjoying as a satisfying family dinner. Give it a try and delight in the wonderful fusion of flavors!