In the hustle of weeknight dinners, few meals are as satisfying and comforting as a hearty bowl of Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli. Picture this: juicy Italian sausage mingling with vibrant, tender broccoli and perfectly al dente orecchiette, all coming together in just 30 minutes. This family-friendly dish not only caters to your busy schedule but also ensures that you’re serving up a nutritious meal packed with protein and greens. Best of all, it’s highly customizable! Feeling adventurous? Swap out the broccoli for spinach or add a splash of cherry tomatoes for a colorful twist. What variations will you create in your own kitchen? Why is Orecchiette So Loved? Quick Meal: You can whip this dish up in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Family-Friendly: It’s a comforting bowl everyone in the family will enjoy, from kids to adults! Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein, veggies, and wholesome pasta, this dish is health-conscious without sacrificing flavor. Customizable Options: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or switch pasta types for a fresh twist each time you make it. Bursting with Flavor: The combination of juicy sausage and garlic creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen, ensuring everyone will gather around the table. Serve it with a side of warm crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal that delights hearts and tummies. Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Ingredients For the Pasta • Orecchiette – The unique shape helps trap the sauce, making each bite flavorful and satisfying. For the Sauté • Italian Sausage – Provides a hearty source of flavor and protein; opt for turkey sausage for a lighter twist. • Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing; can be replaced with canola or avocado oil for a healthier option. • Garlic – Freshly minced garlic enhances the flavor; in a hurry? Garlic powder works as a convenient substitute. For the Vegetables • Broccoli Florets – Adds nutritious green goodness; swap in spinach or green beans for a different taste and texture. For the Finish • Parmesan Cheese – Brings creaminess and depth to the dish; nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free alternative. • Red Pepper Flakes – A pinch adds warmth; omit if you prefer a milder flavor. • Cracked Pepper and Flaky Salt – Vital for the final seasoning—regular salt and freshly ground pepper will work if you don’t have these. Feel free to mix and match these ingredients to make your own delightful version of Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Step 1: Cook the Pasta Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the orecchiette and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically around 9–11 minutes. As it cooks, reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. This starchy water will help bind the dish together later. Step 2: Sauté the Sausage In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until the sausage is well-browned and cooked through, stirring occasionally to achieve even browning. The sizzling sound and golden color signal it’s ready for the next step. Step 3: Add the Garlic and Broccoli To the skillet with the sausage, add 3 minced garlic cloves, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, toss in the broccoli florets and combine well. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the broccoli to become tender yet still vibrant. The broccoli should maintain a bright green color while softening. Step 4: Combine Pasta and Mixture Once the broccoli is tender, carefully add the drained orecchiette to the skillet with the sausage and broccoli. Gently mix everything together, incorporating the reserved pasta water bit by bit to loosen the sauce and enhance flavor. Aim for a silky consistency that coats each piece of pasta beautifully. Step 5: Finish and Serve Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and a pinch of red pepper flakes to elevate the flavors of your Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli. Continue to mix over low heat until the cheese is melted and the dish is cohesive. Finally, finish with flaky salt and cracked pepper to taste, and serve warm with extra cheese, if desired. Make Ahead Options These Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli are wonderful for meal prep! You can cook the pasta and sauté the sausage and broccoli up to 24 hours in advance. Just refrigerate them separately in airtight containers to keep everything fresh—this prevents the pasta from becoming mushy. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sausage and broccoli in a skillet, then add the cooked orecchiette along with a splash of reserved pasta water to restore moisture. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes just before serving for a delicious meal that feels freshly made, saving you precious time on busy weeknights! What to Serve with Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli A delightful dinner is just a few pairings away, inviting you to explore complementary flavors and textures alongside your hearty dish. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery, and infused with garlic, it’s perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce. Simple Green Salad: Crisp greens dressed in a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add depth, color, and extra nutrition. Creamy Polenta: Smooth and comforting, polenta offers a delightful base that soaks up the flavors beautifully. Wine Pairing – Chardonnay: A chilled glass complements the dish’s richness while brightening the savory notes. Lemon Sorbet: Light and refreshing, this dessert cleanses the palate after a hearty entrée. Each of these options brings an exciting element to your meal, enhancing the experience of enjoying your Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli! Expert Tips for Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Cook Sausage Well: Ensure the sausage is fully cooked and golden brown for the best flavor. Undercooked sausage can ruin the dish. Reserve Pasta Water: Always save more pasta water than you think you’ll need. It helps create a luscious sauce that brings the Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli together beautifully. Don’t Overcook Broccoli: Cook the broccoli until just tender to maintain its vibrant color and nutritional value. Overcooking can result in a mushy texture. Customize to Taste: Feel free to add in extra veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes for varied taste and nutrition. This dish is all about personalization! Finish with Freshness: A sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese or a touch of fresh herbs like basil can elevate your dish and provide a fresh finish. How to Store and Freeze Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures your flavorful Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli stays fresh and delicious. Freezer: You can freeze this dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to cool it completely before sealing to prevent ice crystals from forming. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to restore moisture and flavor. Separation Tip: If storing before cooking, keep the sausage, broccoli, and orecchiette separate for the best texture upon reheating. Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Variations Customize your Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli to fit your family’s taste and dietary preferences for an exciting twist every time! Vegetable Swap: Substitute broccoli for spinach, green beans, or peas for different textures and flavors. Each veggie brings its unique color and taste to the dish. Pasta Variety: Use farfalle, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta instead of orecchiette to mix up shapes and textures. This simple change can transform your meal’s visual appeal! Protein Options: Try turkey sausage for a lighter version or switch to plant-based sausage for a delicious vegetarian dish that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Herb Enhancer: Add fresh basil, parsley, or oregano for a burst of freshness. These herbs can elevate your dish, surrounding it with aromatic goodness. One-Pot Wonder: Toss the broccoli directly into the pot with the pasta during the last few minutes of cooking. This not only saves on cleanup but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Spice It Up: Enhance the heat by including diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for those who love some sizzle. The extra warmth will surely excite your taste buds! Cheese Lovers: Mix in ricotta or goat cheese for creaminess, or sprinkle extra Parmesan on top when serving for a cheesier experience. Cherry Tomato Burst: Adding halved cherry tomatoes during the last few minutes of cooking can bring a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the sausage wonderfully. For more mouthwatering ideas, consider trying out some Chicken Biscuits with Hot Honey Butter alongside your pasta, or enjoy it with a healthy side like a Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole. Each variation keeps your dinner exciting and family-friendly! Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Recipe FAQs What type of broccoli works best for this recipe? Absolutely! Fresh broccoli florets are the best choice, providing vibrant color and nutrition. Look for firm florets that are bright green without dark spots. However, you can easily substitute them with other greens like spinach or green beans if preferred. How should I store leftovers of Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli? Simply store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps your dish fresh and ready to enjoy again! When it’s time to reheat, add a splash of olive oil or water on the stovetop to help restore moisture. Can I freeze Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli? Yes, indeed! You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. After cooking, allow it to cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container, ensuring there’s no excess air trapped inside. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above. What’s the best way to avoid overcooking the broccoli? To keep your broccoli tender yet vibrant, add it to the skillet after the sausage has browned. Cook it for just 3-4 minutes until it’s bright green and tender. Always be mindful to check for tenderness without letting it become mushy, as that ensures you maintain its nutritional benefits and appealing appearance. Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe? Certainly! This recipe contains gluten from the pasta and dairy from the Parmesan cheese. If you need to cater to gluten-free diets, swap the orecchiette for a gluten-free pasta alternative. For dairy-free needs, nutritional yeast is a fantastic substitute for the cheese, maintaining that savory depth you love. Can I customize the recipe with different ingredients? The more, the merrier! This dish is highly customizable. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or switch the sausage to a lighter turkey or plant-based option. Mixing in fresh herbs such as basil or parsley can also add a delightful twist. It’s all about personal preference! Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli: A Quick Family Favorite Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli is a comforting, nutritious meal that's quick to make and customizable for the whole family. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta12 oz Orecchiette The unique shape helps trap the sauce.For the Sauté12 oz Italian Sausage Opt for turkey sausage for a lighter twist.2 tbsp Olive Oil Can be replaced with canola or avocado oil.3 cloves Garlic Freshly minced enhances flavor; garlic powder works too.For the Vegetables4 cups Broccoli Florets Swap in spinach or green beans for different taste.For the Finish½ cup Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free alternative.1 pinch Red Pepper Flakes Omit if you prefer a milder flavor.to taste Cracked Pepper and Flaky Salt Regular salt and freshly ground pepper will work. Equipment Large potskilletspatula Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsBegin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the orecchiette and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically around 9–11 minutes. As it cooks, reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until browned and cooked through.To the skillet with the sausage, add 3 minced garlic cloves, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, toss in the broccoli florets and combine well. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.Once the broccoli is tender, carefully add the drained orecchiette to the skillet. Gently mix everything together, incorporating the reserved pasta water bit by bit.Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Mix over low heat until the cheese melts and the dish is cohesive. Finish with flaky salt and cracked pepper to taste, and serve warm with extra cheese if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 24gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 750mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 90mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg NotesFeel free to mix and match these ingredients for your own version of Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge, or freeze for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
