The moment fennel seeds hit the hot olive oil, their sweet licorice scent fills your kitchen like magic. This orecchiette with sausage and broccoli brings together pasta shaped like little ears, spicy Italian sausage, and tender green florets in one glorious bowl. It’s comfort food that feels fancy but comes together in thirty minutes.
Think of this as your go-to weeknight savior. The orecchiette catches every bit of garlicky goodness while the sausage adds warmth and the broccoli keeps things fresh. It’s like that cozy trattoria dish you dream about, but easier and right from your own stove. Full details in the blog!
I’ve been tweaking this recipe for months, playing with different spice blends and testing which sausage works best. My secret? A pinch of red pepper flakes and freshly grated pecorino at the very end. Trust me, I tested it with three different pasta shapes. You’ll love the results.
PrintOrecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Recipe for an Irresistible Dinner
Enjoy a flavorful and easy orecchiette with sausage and broccoli dish that’s perfect for weeknights. This orecchiette sausage broccoli recipe brings together Italian orecchiette with broccoli rabe sausage and a hint of garlic parmesan for a spicy, comforting meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Standard
Ingredients
- 16 oz. broccoli florets about 2 small crowns
- 1 lb. orecchiette pasta
- 1 Tbsp. olive oil
- 16 oz. raw Italian sausage
- 4 cloves garlic
- 2 cups reserved pasta water
- topping: grated parmesan cheese olive oil red pepper flakes freshly cracked pepper flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Rinse and trim broccoli then chop the florets into small pieces.
- Cook orecchiette pasta as per package instructions but drain 2 minutes before done and keep 2 cups of pasta water aside.
- Warm olive oil in a large skillet and crumble the raw Italian sausage into it. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes until browned.
- Stir in chopped broccoli and garlic then cook for another 5 to 6 minutes, adding a splash of water to help steam the broccoli soften.
- Add the drained pasta and half of the reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss everything well and add more pasta water if needed to moisten.
- Serve topped with parmesan cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, flaky sea salt, red pepper flakes, and freshly cracked pepper as desired.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days
- Avoid freezing to keep texture intact
- Reheat in a skillet or microwave and add olive oil if dry
- You can substitute pork sausage with chicken or turkey sausage
- Use smaller pasta shapes like medium shells or penne if orecchiette is unavailable
- Prep broccoli ahead by chopping it ready
- Serve alongside Italian chopped salad and garlic bread for a full meal
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Why You’ll Love This Orecchiette Sausage Broccoli Recipe
There’s something magical about how those little ear-shaped pasta cups cradle every bite of garlicky sausage and tender broccoli. This orecchiette with sausage and broccoli delivers restaurant-quality flavors with just five simple ingredients and one skillet to clean.
The beauty lies in the timingeverything comes together in perfect harmony. While your pasta bubbles away, the Italian sausage browns to crispy perfection, filling your kitchen with irresistible fennel and herb aromas. Meanwhile, the broccoli softens just enough to stay vibrant green but never mushy.
- One-pan wonder: Less cleanup, more time to enjoy dinner with your family
- Flexible protein: Works beautifully with pork, chicken, or turkey sausage
- Kid-approved: Even picky eaters love how the pasta catches all those savory bits
Ingredient Breakdown and Smart Swaps
Each ingredient in this easy one-pot orecchiette sausage broccoli dish plays a starring role. The orecchiette isn’t just prettythose little cups are designed to hold every bit of garlic, sausage crumble, and pasta water that creates the silky sauce.
Raw Italian sausage is your flavor powerhouse here. I always choose the kind with visible fennel seeds and herbs because they bloom beautifully when hitting hot olive oil. The broccoli adds color, nutrition, and a slight bite that balances the richness perfectly.
| Original Ingredient | Smart Swap Options | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Orecchiette pasta | Medium shells, penne, or gemelli | Choose shapes with nooks and crannies |
| Italian sausage (16 oz) | 12 oz package, chicken sausage, or turkey | Remove from casings for best texture |
| Fresh broccoli | Broccoli rabe, broccolini, or frozen florets | Cut into bite-sized pieces |
Step-by-Step Success Tips
The secret to this spicy sausage orecchiette broccoli garlic parmesan masterpiece is all in the layering of flavors. Start by prepping your broccoli and bringing your pasta water to a boiltiming is everything to achieve perfect al dente texture.
When browning the sausage, resist the urge to stir too much. Let it develop those beautiful caramelized bits that add depth. These fond pieces will dissolve into your pasta water later, creating an incredible base for your sauce.
- Pro tip: Cook your pasta 2 minutes less than package directionsit will finish cooking in the skillet
- Save that pasta water: The starchy liquid transforms this dish from good to absolutely irresistible
- Steam trick: Add a splash of water to help broccoli cook evenly without overcooking
Serving and Storage Guide
This quick weeknight orecchiette with broccoli sausage is best served immediately while still glossy and steaming. I love setting out little bowls of grated parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, and good olive oil so everyone can customize their bowl.
Leftovers keep beautifully in the fridge, though the pasta will absorb some sauce overnight. A drizzle of olive oil and a splash of water in the microwave revive it perfectly.
| Storage Method | Duration | Reheating Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator (airtight container) | 3-4 days | Add olive oil, reheat in skillet or microwave |
| Freezer | Not recommended | Pasta and broccoli texture changes |
| Room temperature | 2 hours max | Refrigerate promptly for food safety |
Perfect Pairings
- Italian chopped salad: Crisp vegetables balance the richness perfectly
- Garlic bread: Because you can never have too much garlic
- Simple arugula salad: The peppery greens cut through the sausage beautifully
Troubleshooting and Recipe Tweaks
Sometimes pasta dishes feel a bit dry, especially when reheating leftovers. The key is always having more pasta water than you think you’ll needthat starchy liquid is gold for creating perfect sauce consistency.
If your broccoli is cooking too quickly, remove it from the heat and add it back when the pasta joins the party. There’s no shame in pulling ingredients off the heat to prevent overcooking.
- Too dry? Add pasta water gradually until it reaches your perfect consistency
- Not enough flavor? A pinch of red pepper flakes and extra parmesan work wonders
- Sausage too greasy? Drain excess fat before adding broccoli and garlic
Expert Says
Orecchiette with sausage and broccoli is a fantastic example of balancing flavors and textures. The ridged pasta efficiently captures the sauce, while broccoli adds essential vitamins, particularly vitamin K. Blanching broccoli just right preserves its vibrant color and nutrients, making this dish both delicious and nourishing.
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The Journey to My Perfect Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli
After countless attempts, I’ve finally perfected my Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli. Each try brought new lessonslike the time I accidentally used too much garlic and my family couldn’t stop laughing! Now, this dish beautifully combines flavors while evoking cherished memories of cooking with my mom in her bustling kitchen.
FAQs ( Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli )
What type of sausage is best for this recipe?
For a delicious flavor, use Italian sausageeither sweet or spicy depending on your taste preference. The sausage enhances the dish’s overall richness while complementing the broccoli perfectly.
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of broccoli rabe?
Yes, fresh broccoli can be used as a substitute for broccoli rabe. While the flavor is slightly milder, it will still work well in this dish, maintaining a nice crunch and freshness when cooked.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the orecchiette pasta with a gluten-free pasta variety. Ensure that your sausage is also gluten-free, and you can easily enjoy this dish without compromising flavor.
What can I add for extra flavor?
For additional flavor, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes for some heat or a sprinkle of lemon juice to brighten the dish. Garlic and freshly grated Parmesan cheese also enhance the overall taste beautifully.
How long does it take to cook this dish?
This meal can be prepared in about 30 to 40 minutes. With the sausage cooked and the pasta prepared simultaneously, you’ll have a delightful dish ready in no time.
Your New Favorite Weeknight Winner
This orecchiette with sausage and broccoli comes together in just 30 minutes but tastes like you’ve been stirring love into it all day. You’ll adore how those little pasta ears catch every bit of garlicky goodness, while the fennel-scented sausage and bright green broccoli create the most satisfying bowl of comfort.
Here’s a flavor trick I picked up from experimenting with herb blends: add a pinch of dried oregano right when the garlic hits the pan. For extra richness, toss in a handful of fresh parmesan at the end. Leftovers reheat beautifully with just a splash of pasta water and gentle heat on the stove.
I’d love to see your versiontag me if you share a photo! Did this remind you of any family pasta nights growing up? There’s something magical about how a simple bowl of pasta can bring everyone to the table. Save this recipe for your next cozy dinner gathering.
