Name: Italian Pulled Pork Ragu Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 10
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 18 oz pork tenderloin; 1 tsp kosher salt; black pepper; 1 tsp olive oil; 5 cloves garlic; 28 oz tomatoes; 7 oz small red peppers; 2 sprigs Fresh Thyme; 2 bay leaves; 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley

This Italian Pulled Pork Ragu is a hearty, flavorful dish that promises to satisfy your comfort food cravings. The tender pork and rich tomato sauce, combined with a blend of savory spices and fresh herbs, make every bite a delightful experience.

Photos of Italian Pulled Pork Ragu Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe that you might not have readily at home include pork tenderloin, small red peppers, and fresh herbs like thyme and parsley. When you visit the supermarket, make sure to get a high-quality cut of pork tenderloin for the best results. Small red peppers are usually found in the fresh produce section, and if you can't find them, bell peppers make an excellent substitute. Fresh herbs are often available in the produce section too; they add an unbeatable fragrance and depth of flavor to this ragu.

Ingredients for Italian Pulled Pork Ragu

Pork tenderloin: This lean cut of meat is the star of the dish, becoming tender and flavorful after slow cooking. Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the flavor of the pork and the sauce. Olive oil: Used for sautéing the garlic and browning the pork. Garlic: Adds a punch of flavor to the dish. Tomatoes: Provide a rich and hearty base for the ragu sauce. Small red peppers: Adds a sweet and slightly spicy flavor to the ragu. Fresh thyme: Infuses the ragu with a subtle, aromatic flavor. Bay leaves: Give depth to the sauce's flavor profile. Fresh parsley: Adds a fresh and bright touch to the finished dish.

One reader, Jany Montgomery says:

This Italian pulled pork ragu recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and the pork is incredibly tender. It's so versatile - I've served it over pasta, polenta, and even on a sandwich. It's become a family favorite and I can't wait to make it again!

Jany Montgomery

Essential Techniques for Making Italian Pulled Pork Ragu Recipe

How to brown the pork: In a hot skillet, sear the pork tenderloin on all sides until golden brown. This will help develop rich flavor in the ragu.

How to shred the pork: Once the pork is cooked and tender, use two forks to shred it into small pieces. This will create a delicious, pulled texture for the ragu.

How to sauté the garlic: In a pan, heat the olive oil and sauté the garlic until it turns golden brown. This will release the aromatic flavors of the garlic, enhancing the overall taste of the ragu.

How to remove bay leaves: After cooking, carefully remove the bay leaves from the ragu. Bay leaves are added for flavor during cooking but should be removed before serving as they are not meant to be eaten.

How to serve over pasta: Cook your favorite pasta according to package instructions, then ladle the Italian pulled pork ragu over the pasta. This hearty and flavorful sauce pairs wonderfully with pasta.

How To Make Italian Pulled Pork Ragu

This pulled pork ragu is made with seasoned tenderloin, crushed tomatoes, and roasted red peppers. Cook it in an instant pot, slow cooker, or stovetop.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour

Total: 1 hour 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

18ozpork tenderloin
1tspkosher salt
black pepper,to taste
1tspolive oil
5clovesgarlic,smashed with the side of a knife
28oztomatoes,(1 can), crushed
7ozsmall red peppers,(1 jar), roasted drained
2sprigsfresh thyme
2bay leaves
1tbspfresh parsley,chopped, divided

Instructions

Instant Pot:

Season pork with salt and pepper. Press the sauté button to warm, add oil and garlic and sauté for 1 to 1½ minutes until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon.
Add pork and brown for about 2 minutes on each side. Add the remaining ingredients and garlic, reserving half of the parsley.
Cook high pressure for 45 minutes. Natural release, remove bay leaves, shred the pork with 2 forks, and top with remaining parsley. Serve over pasta.

Slow Cooker:

Season pork with salt and pepper. Heat a medium skillet over medium-high heat, add oil and garlic and sauté for 1 to 1½ minutes until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon.
Add pork and brown for about 2 minutes on each side then transfer to the slow cooker with the garlic and the remaining ingredients, reserving half of the parsley.
Cook for 8 hours on Low. Remove bay leaves, shred the pork with 2 forks, and top with remaining parsley. Serve over pasta.

Stove Top:

Season pork with salt and pepper. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add oil and garlic, and sauté for 1 to 1½ minutes until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon.
Add pork and brown for about 2 minutes on each side. Add the remaining ingredients to the pot including the garlic, reserving half of the parsley.
Bring to a boil, then cook covered on low for about 2 hours until the pork is tender, and shreds easily. Remove bay leaves, shred the pork with 2 forks, and top with remaining parsley. Serve over pasta.

Nutrition

Calories: 90.16kcal
Fat: 2.52g
Saturated Fat: 0.71g
Trans Fat: 0.02g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.05g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.43g
Carbohydrates: 5.34g
Fiber: 1.65g
Sugar: 2.94g
Protein: 11.63g
Cholesterol: 33.17mg
Sodium: 220.09mg
Calcium: 21.22mg
Potassium: 449.13mg
Iron: 1.05mg
Vitamin A: 68.02µg
Vitamin C: 38.21mg

Pro Tip: Mastering the Technique for Italian Pulled Pork Ragu

When shredding the pork, it's important to let it rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more moist and flavorful. Also, using two forks, shred the meat in opposite directions. This will create long, tender strands of pork that are perfect for soaking up the delicious ragu.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Italian Pulled Pork Ragu

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure ingredients, and marinate the pork the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use kitchen gadgets: Utilize tools like an Instant Pot or slow cooker to effortlessly cook the pork while you attend to other tasks.

Buy pre-cut ingredients: Opt for pre-cut vegetables and pre-minced garlic to cut down on prep time.

Multi-task: While the pork is cooking, use that time to prepare the pasta or side dishes to streamline the overall cooking process.

Organize your workspace: Keep your cooking area tidy and organized to avoid wasting time searching for utensils or ingredients.

Substitute Ingredients For Italian Pulled Pork Ragu Recipe

pork tenderloin - Substitute with beef chuck roast: Beef chuck roast can be used as a substitute for pork tenderloin in this recipe. It has a similar texture and when slow-cooked, it becomes tender and flavorful.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt. It provides a similar level of saltiness and can be used in the same quantity as kosher salt.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can be used as a substitute for black pepper. It has a milder flavor and can be used in the same quantity as black pepper.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can be used as a substitute for olive oil. It has a mild flavor and a high smoke point, making it suitable for cooking at higher temperatures.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for garlic. They have a mild, sweet flavor and can add a depth of flavor to the dish.
tomatoes - Substitute with canned tomato sauce: Canned tomato sauce can be used as a substitute for fresh tomatoes. It provides a smooth, concentrated tomato flavor that works well in ragu recipes.
red peppers - Substitute with bell peppers: Bell peppers can be used as a substitute for red peppers. They add a sweet and slightly tangy flavor to the dish.
fresh thyme - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme can be used as a substitute for fresh thyme. Use it in smaller quantities as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
bay leaves - Substitute with dried oregano: Dried oregano can be used as a substitute for bay leaves. It adds a similar earthy and aromatic flavor to the dish.
fresh parsley - Substitute with fresh basil: Fresh basil can be used as a substitute for fresh parsley. It adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor to the dish.

How to Beautifully Present Your Italian Pulled Pork Ragu

Elevate the plating: When presenting the Italian pulled pork ragu, focus on creating an elegant and refined plating. Use fresh herbs and microgreens to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Incorporate texture: Introduce a textural element to the dish by adding a crispy element, such as crispy prosciutto or fried sage leaves, to provide a delightful contrast to the tender pork ragu.
Utilize high-quality dinnerware: Opt for porcelain plates or handcrafted ceramic bowls to showcase the rustic yet sophisticated nature of the Italian pulled pork ragu.
Emphasize the aroma: Before presenting the dish, ensure that the aromatic fragrance of the ragu fills the air, enhancing the overall sensory experience for the diners.
Garnish with precision: Carefully garnish the dish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of grated Parmigiano-Reggiano to add a touch of luxury and depth of flavor.
Consider the visual balance: Pay attention to the visual balance of the plate, ensuring that the components are arranged thoughtfully and harmoniously to create an appealing presentation.
Highlight the pork: Showcase the succulent shredded pork as the focal point of the dish, allowing its rich and savory characteristics to take center stage.
Accompany with complementary sides: Pair the Italian pulled pork ragu with a side of handmade pasta or creamy polenta to elevate the overall dining experience and provide a satisfying accompaniment to the flavorful ragu.

Storing and Freezing Italian Pulled Pork Ragu: A Guide

Let the pork ragu cool completely before storing or freezing.
Transfer the cooled ragu to an airtight container or freezer-safe bags.
If using freezer bags, remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
Store the pork ragu in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
To freeze, place the sealed container or bag in the freezer, where it will keep for up to 3 months.
When ready to use the frozen ragu, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheat the thawed or refrigerated ragu in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
If the ragu appears too thick after thawing or reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to achieve the desired consistency.
Serve the reheated pork ragu over freshly cooked pasta, and enjoy your delicious, homemade meal!

How To Reheat Leftover Italian Pulled Pork Ragu

Reheat in the oven: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover italian pulled pork ragu to an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and place it in the oven for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. This method helps maintain the texture and moisture of the pork while ensuring even heating.
Reheat on the stovetop: place the leftover ragu in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen it up. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until the pork is warmed through.
Reheat in the microwave: transfer the leftover italian pulled pork ragu to a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent splattering and help maintain moisture. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, or until the pork is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the pork to become tough and dry.
Reheat in a slow cooker: if you have a small amount of leftover ragu, you can reheat it in a slow cooker. Transfer the ragu to the slow cooker, cover, and heat on low for 1-2 hours or until the pork is warmed through. This method is particularly useful if you want to keep the ragu warm for an extended period, such as during a party or gathering.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to stir the italian pulled pork ragu occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent scorching. Additionally, always check the internal temperature of the reheated pork to ensure it reaches a safe minimum temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Fascinating Facts About Italian Pulled Pork Ragu

The Italian pulled pork ragu recipe is a delicious and versatile dish that can be prepared in an instant pot, slow cooker, or on the stovetop. It's a great way to enjoy tender and flavorful pork with a rich tomato-based sauce. This dish is perfect for serving over pasta, creating a hearty and satisfying meal for any occasion. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this recipe is sure to impress with its depth of flavor and tender texture. Plus, it can be easily customized with your favorite herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy!

Is Making Italian Pulled Pork Ragu at Home Cost-Effective?

This Italian pulled pork ragu recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The use of affordable ingredients such as pork tenderloin, canned tomatoes, and garlic makes it budget-friendly. The versatility of this dish also allows for leftovers, reducing food waste. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-20, making it an economical choice. The overall verdict for this recipe is 9/10, considering its affordability, flavor, and the ability to feed a family with a hearty and delicious meal.

Is Italian Pulled Pork Ragu Healthy or Unhealthy?

This Italian pulled pork ragu recipe is relatively healthy, as it incorporates lean pork tenderloin and a variety of nutritious ingredients such as tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs. The use of olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats, while the tomatoes offer a good source of vitamin C and lycopene. Additionally, the recipe does not include any added sugars or excessive amounts of salt, which is a plus.

However, there are a few ways to make this recipe even healthier:

Use a low-sodium broth or water instead of the cooking liquid from the tomatoes to reduce the overall sodium content
Add more vegetables to the dish, such as diced onions, carrots, and celery, to increase the fiber and nutrient content
Opt for whole wheat or legume-based pasta to serve with the ragu, providing more fiber and protein compared to traditional white pasta
Trim any visible fat from the pork tenderloin before cooking to reduce the saturated fat content
Use fresh herbs liberally, as they add flavor without contributing any additional calories or sodium

Editor's Opinion: Thoughts on Italian Pulled Pork Ragu Recipe

The Italian pulled pork ragu recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of pork tenderloin creates a tender and succulent base, while the blend of garlic, tomatoes, and fresh herbs infuses the dish with aromatic richness. The cooking methods provided cater to various preferences, ensuring that the dish can be prepared to perfection regardless of the equipment available. The resulting ragu is versatile and can be served over pasta, making it a comforting and satisfying meal. Overall, this recipe offers a delightful Italian-inspired dish that is sure to impress with its depth of flavor and ease of preparation.

Enhance Your Italian Pulled Pork Ragu Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus with olive oil, garlic, and parmesan cheese, then roast until tender and crispy.

Creamy Polenta with Wild Mushrooms: Cook polenta until creamy, then top with sautéed wild mushrooms and a drizzle of truffle oil for a luxurious side dish.

Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme: Roast carrots with honey and fresh thyme until caramelized and tender for a sweet and savory side dish.

Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze: Layer ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, then drizzle with balsamic glaze for a classic Italian salad.

Tiramisu Cheesecake: Indulge in a decadent tiramisu-flavored cheesecake for a rich and creamy dessert option.

Delicious Alternatives to Italian Pulled Pork Ragu Recipe

creamy chicken alfredo: This creamy chicken alfredo recipe is a classic Italian dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and indulgent alfredo sauce. It's the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in.

spicy beef tacos: These spicy beef tacos are a delicious and easy-to-make meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner. The flavorful beef is seasoned with a blend of spices and served in warm tortillas with all your favorite toppings.

lemon garlic roasted chicken: This lemon garlic roasted chicken recipe is a simple and flavorful dish that's perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. The chicken is marinated in a zesty lemon and garlic mixture, then roasted to perfection.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Italian Pulled Pork Ragu

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy filling, making it a crowd-pleasing option for any gathering.

Bruschetta: Serve up a classic Italian appetizer by topping crispy slices of toasted bread with a vibrant mixture of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and olive oil. The combination of juicy tomatoes and fragrant herbs creates a refreshing and light option to kick off any meal.

Desserts:

Decadent Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an extra touch of elegance.

Velvety Tiramisu: Savor the layers of delicate ladyfingers soaked in coffee and layered with a luscious mascarpone cream, finished with a dusting of cocoa powder for a classic Italian treat.

Why trust this Italian Pulled Pork Ragu Recipe:

This recipe guarantees succulent pork tenderloin infused with aromatic garlic and thyme, creating a rich and flavorful ragu. The use of tomatoes and red peppers adds depth and sweetness, while the slow cooking method ensures tender, melt-in-your-mouth pulled pork. The versatility of preparing it in an instant pot, slow cooker, or on the stove top caters to various cooking preferences. With a perfect balance of seasonings and a touch of fresh parsley, this Italian pulled pork ragu is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Want to share your experience making this Italian Pulled Pork Ragu or have any tips to perfect the recipe? Join the discussion in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know!

FAQ:

Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other cuts of pork such as pork shoulder or pork butt. These cuts are also great for slow cooking and will result in tender, flavorful meat for the ragu.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can substitute dried herbs for fresh ones in this recipe. Use about one-third of the amount of dried herbs as the recipe calls for fresh. For example, if the recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried parsley.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prepping. You can make the pulled pork ragu ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well, so you can make a big batch and freeze it for future meals.

What can I serve with the pulled pork ragu?

The pulled pork ragu is delicious served over pasta, such as pappardelle or rigatoni. You can also serve it over creamy polenta or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. Don't forget to sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top!

Can I adjust the level of spiciness in the recipe?

Absolutely! If you prefer a spicier ragu, you can add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the recipe. On the other hand, if you're sensitive to spice, you can reduce or omit the red peppers to suit your taste preferences.