Oh my goodness, if you haven’t tried Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli, you’re missing out on a cozy bowl of pure comfort! This dish brings together the delightful, ear-shaped pasta that hugs every bit of flavor, with the savory richness of Italian sausage and the vibrant crunch of fresh broccoli. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! What I love most is how quick it is to whip up—perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. And let’s be real, that sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top? Total game changer! Trust me, this is a meal that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients List
- 8 ounces orecchiette pasta
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
How to Prepare Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli
Step 1: Cook the Orecchiette
First things first, let’s get that pasta cooking! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. I usually go for about 4-6 quarts of water to ensure the orecchiette has plenty of room to dance around. Once it’s boiling, toss in your 8 ounces of orecchiette pasta and cook according to the package instructions—usually around 10-12 minutes until it’s al dente. Just remember to stir occasionally, so it doesn’t stick together. When it’s ready, reserve about a cup of the pasta water (this will come in handy later!), then drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sausage
Now, let’s get that delicious sausage going! In a large skillet, heat up 1/4 cup of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, crumble in the 1 pound of Italian sausage, casings removed. Make sure to break it apart as it cooks—this helps it brown evenly and creates those tasty little bits we all love. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Oh, that smell is just heavenly!
Step 3: Add Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes
Next, let’s amp up the flavor! Toss in 3 cloves of minced garlic and 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes into the skillet with the sausage. Stir it all together and sauté for about 1 minute. You want to be careful here—don’t let the garlic burn, or it can turn bitter. Just let it get fragrant and delicious, and trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Step 4: Cook the Broccoli
Now, it’s broccoli time! Add in those 2 cups of chopped broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir everything together, and let it cook for about 5 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green. If you find the skillet getting a bit dry, feel free to splash in a little reserved pasta water to help it along. That way, you’ll keep all those beautiful flavors mingling together!
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Alright, we’re almost there! Drain the orecchiette if you haven’t already, and add it to the skillet with the sausage and broccoli. Toss everything together gently, making sure all that deliciousness gets combined. If it feels a bit dry, just add a splash more of that reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Season it all with salt and pepper to taste—this is where you can really make it your own!
Step 6: Serve
And now for the grand finale! Serve your Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli hot, topped with a generous sprinkle of 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. It adds that perfect salty bite! If you’re feeling a little fancy, a drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice on top can elevate it even further. Enjoy every bite—you’ve earned it!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but this should give you a solid idea of what to expect:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 20g
This dish packs a hearty punch while still being balanced, making it a great choice for a satisfying meal. Enjoy your delicious creation without any guilt!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without the hassle.
- Hearty Flavor: The combination of savory Italian sausage and fresh broccoli creates a satisfying blend of flavors that will leave you craving more.
- Nutritional Balance: Packed with protein and fiber, this meal is filling and nutritious, so you can enjoy it guilt-free!
- Versatile: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or even try different types of sausage for a unique twist every time!
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish! It’s a great way to sneak in some greens without any fuss.
- Comfort Food: There’s something about that warm, cheesy goodness served over pasta that feels like a warm hug after a long day.
Tips for Success
Here are some of my best tips to ensure your Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli turns out absolutely delicious every time!
- Salt Your Pasta Water: Don’t skip salting your boiling water! It should taste a bit like the ocean. This is your chance to season the pasta from the inside out.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta water before draining. It’s liquid gold! A splash can help loosen up the sauce and bring everything together.
- Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: You want your broccoli to be tender-crisp, so keep an eye on it! You should still see that vibrant green color.
- Experiment with Sausage: Try different types of sausage—spicy, sweet, or even chicken sausage for a lighter option. Each one will give the dish a unique twist!
- Fresh Garlic is Key: Use fresh garlic instead of pre-minced for the best flavor. The aroma of fresh garlic sautéing is unbeatable!
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: If you have any fresh basil or parsley on hand, sprinkle it over the top before serving for an extra burst of flavor and color.
- Let It Sit: After mixing everything together, let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps all those flavors to meld beautifully!
Trust me, these little tips will elevate your dish and impress everyone at the table! Happy cooking!
Variations
If you’re in the mood to switch things up, there are so many fun variations you can try with Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli! Here are some ideas that I absolutely love:
- Swap the Protein: Instead of Italian sausage, you can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Or, if you’re looking for something plant-based, try crumbling some tempeh or using your favorite plant-based sausage—it’s delicious!
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or even roasted cherry tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor and color. Just toss them in with the broccoli and adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Herb It Up: Fresh herbs can bring a whole new dimension to this dish. Basil, oregano, or even a sprinkle of thyme can add a lovely aroma and freshness. Just add them in towards the end of cooking for the best flavor!
- Cheesy Twist: Try using different cheeses like pecorino or a bit of mozzarella for a gooey, melty texture. You could even mix in some ricotta for a creamy finish!
- Spicy Kick: If you like it hot, amp up the red pepper flakes or add a splash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra zing. You could also use spicy sausage for that heat!
- Creamy Version: For a rich and creamy take, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese just before serving. It makes the dish even more decadent!
These variations are a great way to keep things exciting in the kitchen. So go ahead, experiment and make this dish your own! You’ll find a new favorite every time!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Let’s talk leftovers! If you happen to have any Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli left (which is a rare occurrence because it’s so good!), you’ll want to store it properly to keep all that deliciousness intact. Just follow these simple steps:
- Storing: Allow the pasta to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation from making it soggy. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or a resealable bag. It should be good for about 2-3 months. When freezing, try to remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn.
Now, when it comes to reheating, you’ve got a couple of options to bring that cozy dish back to life:
- Microwave: This is the quickest way! Just pop your portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to keep moisture in, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
- Stovetop: For the best flavor and texture, I recommend reheating it on the stovetop. Just add the pasta to a skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil or a bit of reserved pasta water to keep it moist. Stir occasionally until heated through—this method really helps to revive the dish!
There you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli even after the first serving. Happy eating!
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Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli: 5 Cozy Comfort Tips
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty dish combining orecchiette pasta, sausage, and broccoli.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces orecchiette pasta
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook orecchiette according to package instructions.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add sausage and cook until browned.
- Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté for 1 minute.
- Add broccoli and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
- Drain orecchiette and add to skillet.
- Toss to combine and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve topped with Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Use spicy or mild sausage based on your preference.
- For a vegan option, substitute sausage with plant-based meat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli