There’s something incredibly satisfying about whipping up a hearty meal in just 30 minutes, especially when it taste like you’ve spent all day in the kitchen. That’s where this Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli comes in—it’s the weeknight dinner that proves comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. Picture juicy, savory sausage mingling with tender broccoli and perfectly cooked orecchiette, all enveloped in a rich, flavorful sauce.
Whether you’re juggling family schedules or craving a cozy night in, this dish is your go-to solution. With its nutritious ingredients and easy preparation, it’s bound to become a staple in your household. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to what you have on hand, making it a dish you can get creative with. Dive into this Italian classic, and let the warm, inviting aromas fill your home!
Why is Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli a Must-Try?
Speedy Preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when time is tight.
Flavor Explosion: The savory sausage and fresh broccoli create a delightful balance of flavors that will satisfy any palate.
Nutritious Goodness: Packed with protein and vitamins, it’s a balanced meal without sacrificing taste.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting classic, making it a win-win for dinner time.
Versatile Options: Easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand—flexibility at its finest!
Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Ingredients
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For the Pasta
• Orecchiette – This Italian pasta shape holds sauce beautifully and is perfect for a hearty meal. -
For the Vegetables
• Broccoli Florets – Offers a nutrient-rich vegetable component; can be replaced with spinach or kale for variety. -
For the Sausage Mixture
• Italian Sausage – Adds bold flavor and protein; choose sweet or spicy based on your taste preference.
• Garlic – Enhances depth of flavor; freshly minced garlic is preferred for the best aroma. -
For the Sauce
• Olive Oil – Healthy fats that add flavor; extra-virgin is recommended for superior taste.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Provides a hint of heat; feel free to adjust or omit for a milder profile.
• Cracked Pepper and Flaky Salt – Season to taste for that perfect finish. -
For the Topping
• Parmesan Cheese – Offers richness and umami; freshly grated cheese melts beautifully compared to pre-grated varieties.
Embrace this Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli recipe as your go-to comfort food, and enjoy the delightful medley of flavors it brings to your table!
How to Make Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli
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Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orecchiette and cook until al dente, following package instructions, usually about 9-11 minutes. Remember to reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
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Sauté Sausage: In a large skillet, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced Italian sausage, cooking until it’s browned and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
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Add Broccoli: Once the sausage is nearly done, stir in the broccoli florets. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the broccoli is bright green and tender, but still crisp.
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Combine: Add the drained orecchiette to the skillet. Toss everything together, making sure to mix well. If it seems dry, gradually add some reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
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Finish: Add minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir everything together until the cheese is melted and well combined, about 1-2 minutes.
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Season: Taste your dish and adjust seasoning with cracked pepper and flaky salt as desired before serving hot!
Optional: Garnish with more Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the orecchiette and sauté the sausage and broccoli mixture up to 3 days in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, make sure to refrigerate the reserved pasta water as well. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sausage and broccoli in a skillet, adding the pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water to keep it moist. Finish with minced garlic and Parmesan cheese, heating until everything is warmed through. This method offers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, making dinner a breeze on busy nights!
How to Store and Freeze Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli
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Fridge: Store any leftover Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Always let it cool down to room temperature before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To maintain flavor and texture, it’s best to separate the sauce from the pasta before freezing.
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Reheating: Reheat leftovers on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water or chicken broth to bring back moisture and creaminess.
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Make-Ahead: Prepare this dish ahead of time, refrigerate, and reheat right before serving for a quick family-friendly dinner that tastes freshly made!
What to Serve with Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli?
Elevate your family meal with delightful sides that complement this savory Italian classic beautifully.
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Garlic Bread: Perfectly crispy on the outside and soft within, its buttery flavor pairs excellently with the rich sauce of your orecchiette. Dip it right into the dish for maximum enjoyment!
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Mixed Green Salad: A fresh and vibrant salad with citrus vinaigrette brings brightness and balances the hearty pasta, adding a refreshing crunch.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add additional texture and flavor, enhancing the wholesome feel of your meal.
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White Wine: A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio cuts through the richness of the dish with its crispness, elevating the entire dining experience.
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Lemon Sorbet: As a light dessert, lemon sorbet offers a refreshing finish that cleanses the palate after the savory meal.
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Italian Desserts: End on a sweet note with classic tiramisu or cannoli, completing your Italian feast while indulging everyone’s sweet tooth.
With these delightful pairings, your Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli becomes a memorable family feast!
Expert Tips for Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli
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Pasta Perfected: Always reserve some pasta water before draining; it’s essential for creating a creamy sauce that clings beautifully to the orecchiette.
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Sauté Smart: Cook the garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds, to avoid bitterness; burnt garlic can ruin the dish’s wonderful flavor.
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Veggie Variety: Feel free to customize your dish by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. They can enhance nutrition and flavor in your Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli.
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Sausage Selection: Choose your sausage wisely! Both sweet and spicy provide a great depth, but make sure to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to balance the heat.
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Grate Freshly: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best melting properties and flavor; it elevates the dish far beyond using pre-grated options.
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Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the broccoli while cooking; overcooking can lead to mushiness. You want it tender yet vibrant for the best texture and visual appeal.
Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Variations
Feel free to explore and customize this delightful dish to suit your taste buds. Each variation adds a unique twist, promising a culinary adventure!
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Whole Wheat: Use whole wheat orecchiette to boost fiber content while maintaining that delicious texture.
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace sausage with hearty mushrooms or lentils for a satisfying vegetarian alternative that’s both filling and nutritious.
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Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or toss in some diced jalapeños for an extra kick that heat lovers will adore.
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Creamy Indulgence: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese for a richer, creamier sauce that envelops the pasta.
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Seasonal Veggies: Incorporate seasonal veggies such as asparagus or zucchini for a fresh twist on the traditional flavors, adding a pop of color.
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Pasta Shapes: Switch up the pasta by using farfalle or penne, creating a delightful variation in shape and texture!
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Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheeses like ricotta or pecorino for unique flavors that complement the dish beautifully.
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Herb Infusion: Enhance the freshness by adding chopped fresh basil or parsley right at the end for a burst of color and aromatic flavor.
No matter how you choose to adapt this recipe, the comforting essence will remain, making dinnertime a joy!
Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Recipe FAQs
What type of broccoli should I use?
Absolutely! Fresh broccoli florets are best because they provide a vibrant color and crisp texture. Look for dark green florets without any yellowing or dark spots. If you can’t find fresh, frozen broccoli can also work, but you may need to adjust cooking times slightly.
How do I store Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli?
Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let it cool to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation from creating sogginess. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat on the stove with a little pasta water or broth for moisture.
Can I freeze Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli?
Absolutely! To freeze, it’s best to separate the pasta from the sauce. Place each component in a freezer-safe container, and they can last up to 2 months. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm on the stove with a splash of pasta water for that creamy consistency.
What if my dish turns out too dry?
If you find your Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli is too dry, don’t worry! Just add a little reserved pasta water slowly until it reaches your desired consistency. Stir well to combine, and it will bring your dish back to its creamy glory.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! This dish contains gluten from the pasta and dairy from the cheese, so be mindful of those with allergies or intolerances. For a gluten-free option, substitute with gluten-free pasta and for dairy-free, use a dairy-free cheese alternative. You can also swap out the sausage for a plant-based protein if preferred.
Can I use other types of sausage?
Yes, indeed! While Italian sausage is traditional, feel free to experiment with turkey sausage for a leaner meal or even chicken sausage. Spicy sausage will add more heat, while sweet sausage can yield a milder flavor, allowing you to customize your dish for your family’s taste preferences.
Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Ready in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orecchiette and cook until al dente, usually about 9-11 minutes. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced Italian sausage, cooking until browned and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the sausage is nearly done, stir in the broccoli florets. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, until bright green and tender.
- Add the drained orecchiette to the skillet. Toss everything together, mixing well. Gradually add reserved pasta water if it seems dry.
- Add minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until everything is well combined and cheese is melted, about 1-2 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with cracked pepper and flaky salt before serving hot!