Pasta and Pork Chops

This Pasta and Pork Chops recipe combines juicy, air-fried pork chops with a creamy, flavorful gluten-free pasta. Seasoned with smoked paprika, garlic powder, thyme, and brown sugar, the pork chops are perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The pasta is tossed in a rich, cheesy sauce made with parmesan, heavy cream, and spinach, creating a satisfying and hearty meal. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this easy-to-make recipe is perfect for anyone looking for gluten-free dinner ideas, comforting pork chop recipes, or creamy pasta dishes. Enjoy a delicious, flavorful meal that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients:

For the Pork Chops:

• 4 bone-in pork chops (¼ to ½-inch thick)
• 2 tablespoons Costabile olive oil
• 2 tablespoons smoked sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ¾ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground mustard
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¾ teaspoon thyme
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

For the Pasta and Sauce:

• 12 oz gluten-free fusilli
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 tablespoons dried shallots
• 1 handful chopped spinach
• 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon gluten-free flour
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon smoked sweet paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ teaspoon dried parsley

Instructions:

For the Pork Chops:

1. Wash and pat dry the pork chops with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, ground mustard, onion powder, thyme, and brown sugar to create a seasoning paste.
3. Rub the seasoning paste evenly over both sides of the pork chops.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Air fry the pork chops for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

For the Pasta and Sauce:

1. While the pork chops are air frying, cook the gluten-free fusilli according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the dried shallots and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until softened. Be careful not to burn the shallots.
3. Add the gluten-free flour to the skillet and stir well to combine.
4. Gradually pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in the garlic powder, sweet paprika, thyme, parsley, and salt. Cook for about 1 minute, allowing the sauce to simmer.
5. Add the chopped spinach and parmesan cheese. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens.
6. Once the sauce has thickened, gently fold in the cooked pasta. Mix everything well and serve with the air-fried pork chops. Enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Pasta and Pork Chops recipe is a comforting and flavorful meal, combining juicy, perfectly seasoned pork chops with a rich, creamy pasta sauce. The smoked paprika and brown sugar add depth to the pork, while the creamy pasta with spinach and parmesan makes for a satisfying side dish. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to make and full of flavor.

Tips

• Air frying pork chops: Make sure to flip the pork chops halfway through cooking to ensure even crispness on both sides.
• Sauce thickness: If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add a little more chicken broth or heavy cream to reach your desired consistency.
• Shallots: Keep an eye on the shallots as they cook; they can burn quickly over high heat.

Variations and Substitutions

• Different pasta: Feel free to use any gluten-free pasta or regular pasta if you don’t need it gluten-free.
• Spinach alternatives: Kale, arugula, or other leafy greens can be substituted for spinach for a different flavor and texture.
• Pork alternative: If you don’t have pork chops, you can use boneless chicken breasts or thighs. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in pork chops?
Yes, bone-in pork chops can be used; however, they may take a little longer to cook. Be sure to check the internal temperature to reach 145°F for safety.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. Reheat on the stove before adding the pasta.

Can I use dairy-free alternatives?
Yes, you can substitute dairy-free butter, cream, and cheese to make this dish dairy-free.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish with a side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, to complement the creamy pasta. You can also enjoy it with a light salad dressed in a vinaigrette to balance the richness of the meal. For added flavor, sprinkle freshly grated parmesan on top before serving. Enjoy with a glass of white wine like Chardonnay or a light red wine such as Pinot Noir for a perfect pairing!