Easy Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli

Description

Easy Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli

A quick, delicious dinner perfect for weeknights! This recipe has it all: pasta, veggies, and flavor! With just five simple ingredients, you can make a cozy and comforting meal in only 30 minutes. Whether you like your sausage spicy or mild, this dish is easily adjustable to fit your taste. It’s a family favorite that’s easy to prepare and sure to bring everyone to the table.

16 oz. broccoli florets
1 lb. orecchiette pasta
1 Tbsp. olive oil
16 oz. Italian sausage
4 cloves garlic, minced

Directions:
1. Clean and chop broccoli.
2. Cook pasta as directed, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet, cook sausage until browned.
4. Add garlic and broccoli, cook until softened.
5. Add pasta and pasta water to the skillet, toss together.

Prep Time: 10 min
Kcal: 450 per serving

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these detailed instructions for the perfect one-pan pasta dish.

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. While waiting, wash the broccoli and cut it into bite-sized florets.
2. Add the orecchiette pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package directions for al dente. Just before draining, carefully scoop out ½ cup of the starchy pasta water and set it aside.
3. While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Remove the Italian sausage from its casings and add it to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, for 5-7 minutes until well-browned.
4. Add the minced garlic and broccoli florets to the skillet with the sausage. Cook, stirring frequently, for 4-5 minutes. If the pan seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to help steam and soften the broccoli.
5. Add the drained orecchiette and the remaining reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss everything together vigorously for 1-2 minutes until the sauce emulsifies and coats the pasta evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty dish is a complete meal on its own, but a few additions can elevate it. Serve with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese and a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat. A side of crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce. For a lighter touch, pair it with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.

How-to Summary

In summary, cook orecchiette pasta, reserving some water. Brown Italian sausage in a skillet, then add garlic and broccoli to cook. Combine everything with the pasta water to create a simple, glossy sauce. Toss and serve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes. Small shapes like cavatappi, fusilli, or farfalle that can hold the sausage and broccoli work well.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Substitute the Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage alternative or use a can of drained white beans. Sauté the beans with the garlic to warm them through.

My sauce seems dry. What did I do wrong?
The key is the reserved starchy pasta water. Ensure you reserve a full ½ cup and add it when combining everything. The starch helps create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh. However, you can prep components: chop the broccoli, mince the garlic, and measure ingredients to speed up weeknight cooking.

How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the pasta water: This starchy liquid is essential for creating the sauce. Don’t forget to reserve it.
• Overcooking the broccoli: Aim for tender-crisp broccoli to retain texture and nutrients. It will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the hot pasta.
• Not seasoning the pasta water: Salt your boiling water generously; it’s your primary chance to season the pasta itself.
• Crowding the skillet: Ensure your skillet is large enough to brown the sausage properly without steaming it.

Conclusion

This Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli is the ultimate proof that a deeply satisfying, family-friendly meal doesn’t require complex techniques or a long list of ingredients. In about 30 minutes, you can create a balanced dish with protein, vegetables, and carbs, all coated in a flavorful, simple pan sauce. Its versatility and ease make it a reliable recipe you’ll return to again and again for a stress-free, delicious dinner.