Introduction
Creamy Garlic-Parmesan Pork Medallions with Pasta and Broccoli is a delicious and comforting main course perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This recipe combines tender pork loin medallions seared to perfection with a rich garlic-Parmesan cream sauce, paired with tender pasta and fresh broccoli. It’s a balanced and satisfying meal that’s both simple to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ideal for home cooks looking for a quick yet impressive dish, this recipe takes just 15 minutes to prep and about 25 minutes to cook, making it a convenient choice for weeknights. The creamy sauce complements the pork and pasta beautifully while the broccoli adds freshness and a nutritional boost.
Why you’ll love this Creamy Garlic-Parmesan Pork Medallions with Pasta and Broccoli
- This dish combines tender pork medallions with a luscious, flavorful cream sauce that’s easy to make.
- The inclusion of broccoli adds a healthy vegetable component, making the meal more balanced.
- Using ziti or penne pasta creates the perfect base to soak up the creamy sauce.
- The recipe requires minimal prep time but delivers a restaurant-quality meal at home.
- The garlic and Parmesan blend offers a rich, savory flavor profile that pleases the entire family.
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork loin, cut into 8 medallions
- 12 oz ziti or penne
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 3/4 tsp kosher salt, divided
- 1 tbsp chopped chives
This recipe serves 4 and takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to cook. The key ingredients include pork loin medallions which should be fresh and trimmed for best texture. Choose high-quality Parmesan cheese for a rich, authentic flavor. Fresh broccoli florets add a vibrant color and crunch, while ziti or penne pasta hold the creamy sauce well, ensuring each bite is coated perfectly.
Instructions
- Cook the pasta and broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot or steam them separately until just tender. Drain both and set aside.
- Season the pork medallions: Sprinkle the pork medallions evenly with 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt and the black pepper.
- Sear the pork: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork medallions and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they are well browned and cooked through. Remove the pork from the skillet and keep warm on a plate.
- Prepare the sauce base: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the skillet bottom. Stir in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Incorporate Parmesan cheese: Whisk the grated Parmesan into the sauce until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth and lightly thickened.
- Toss pasta in the sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat it thoroughly with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Plate and serve: Serve the creamy pasta in bowls with the broccoli on the side. Top each portion with the pork medallions. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped chives for a fresh finish.
Tips for the best results
- Pat pork medallions dry before seasoning to achieve a nice sear and better browning.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a smoother sauce and richer flavor.
- Do not overcook the broccoli to keep it vibrant and slightly crisp.
- Reserve some pasta cooking water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
- Simmer the cream sauce gently to prevent it from curdling.
- Let the pork rest briefly after cooking to keep it juicy and tender.
Variations and substitutions
- Use chicken breast medallions instead of pork for a lighter protein option.
- Swap broccoli with asparagus or green beans for a different vegetable choice.
- Replace heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it may be less rich.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms to the sauce for extra depth and flavor.
Serving suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. For a beverage, serve with a chilled white wine such as Pinot Grigio or a light-bodied Chardonnay to complement the garlic-Parmesan flavors without overpowering the pork.
Storage and reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the cream sauce from separating. Add a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid using a microwave unless you stir frequently to maintain texture.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use other cuts of pork for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute pork loin medallions with pork tenderloin medallions or boneless pork chops cut into medallions. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through but remain tender.
Is it necessary to add chicken broth to the sauce?
The chicken broth adds depth and balance to the creamy sauce. If you prefer, you can substitute with vegetable broth or even water, but the flavor may be less rich.
How do I prevent the cream sauce from curdling?
Simmer the sauce gently over medium to low heat and avoid boiling it vigorously. Adding the cream gradually and whisking continuously also helps maintain a smooth texture.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
You can cook the pork medallions and sauce ahead of time but it’s best to combine with pasta and broccoli just before serving to maintain texture and freshness.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano are good alternatives to Parmesan and provide a similar savory flavor. Avoid pre-grated cheeses that often contain anti-caking agents, as they don’t melt as smoothly.
Final thoughts
Creamy Garlic-Parmesan Pork Medallions with Pasta and Broccoli is a wonderful recipe that brings together comforting flavors and fresh ingredients in a quick, easy meal. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to impress and satisfy. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious, creamy, and balanced dish that your whole family will love.