Easy Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage Recipe

If you’re craving a meal that feels like a warm hug in pasta form, then this Easy Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage recipe is about to become your new go-to. Combining tender, little ear-shaped pasta with rich, savory sausage and a hint of garlic and herbs, this dish packs layers of flavor in every bite. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing friends with minimal fuss, Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage is a satisfying, stress-free recipe to keep bookmarked.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings when you want something delicious fast.
• Flavorful Comfort: The sausage adds a satisfying savory depth that pairs beautifully with the mild pasta.
• Simple Ingredients: Using pantry staples, this recipe keeps the prep straightforward without sacrificing taste.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable to include your favorite veggies or spice levels.
• Family-Friendly: Appeals to all ages with its approachable yet exciting flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays an essential role in building the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and color in this Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage. From the al dente pasta to the richly spiced sausage, these simple components come together to create an unforgettable meal.

• Orecchiette Pasta: The signature “little ears” capture sauce beautifully and offer a slightly chewy, satisfying bite.
• Italian Sausage: Choose sweet or spicy based on your preference—adds savory heat and richness.
• Garlic: Freshly minced for aromatic flavor that complements the sausage perfectly.
• Olive Oil: Adds smoothness and carries the flavors evenly throughout the dish.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional but recommended for a gentle kick that brightens the meal.
• Spinach or Broccoli Rabe: Adds a pop of green and a pleasant slightly bitter contrast to the meatiness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for finishing, giving a salty, nutty richness.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, balancing and enhancing all the natural flavors.

Variations for Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage

One of the best things about Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage is how easy it is to switch things up to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some ideas to keep this dish fresh and exciting every time you make it.

• Vegetarian Version: Replace sausage with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage for a meat-free twist.
• Spicy Upgrade: Increase red pepper flakes or add chopped Calabrian chili peppers for a serious heat boost.
• Cheese Variation: Swap parmesan with pecorino romano for a sharper flavor.
• Herb Twist: Add fresh basil or oregano for a fragrant herbal flair.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free orecchiette pasta to accommodate gluten sensitivities without compromising texture.

How to Make Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orecchiette pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and reserve a cup of pasta water for later.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

While the pasta cooks, remove casings from the sausage and crumble it into a large skillet over medium heat. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up into bite-sized pieces as it cooks.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Greens

Add olive oil to the sausage in the pan along with minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté until garlic is fragrant, about 1 minute. Then stir in your choice of greens, such as spinach or broccoli rabe, cooking until wilted and tender.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sausage mixture. Toss gently to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to create a silky sauce that clings to each orecchiette shell.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Seasoning

Remove from heat and sprinkle generously with freshly grated parmesan, stirring to melt the cheese into the dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Making Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente to preserve the pasta’s characteristic chew and to hold up well against the hearty sausage.
• Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy water helps bind the sauce and pasta together for a creamy texture without cream.
• Brown the Sausage Well: Developing a good sear adds deep flavor and texture contrasts to the dish.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs, garlic, and quality cheese will elevate the entire meal.
• Customize Heat Carefully: Start with red pepper flakes sparingly and adjust so the heat complements rather than overwhelms.

How to Serve Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage

Garnishes

Top your pasta with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil for a fresh burst of color and flavor. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a twist of lemon zest can also brighten up the dish wonderfully.

Side Dishes

A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette makes a great refreshing contrast. Roasted vegetables or garlic bread also complement the hearty, savory flavors and round out the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage in shallow bowls topped with a final dusting of parmesan and cracked black pepper for a rustic, restaurant-style look. You can also layer it in a pasta bake with extra cheese for a cozy, family-style dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will keep well for up to 3 days and maintain its flavor.

Freezing

This dish is best eaten fresh, but you can freeze portioned leftovers in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, or microwave covered in short intervals, stirring occasionally to heat evenly without drying.

FAQs

Can I use other types of sausage?

Absolutely! Italian sausage is traditional, but you can use chorizo, bratwurst, or even turkey sausage depending on your taste preference.

What if I can’t find orecchiette pasta?

While orecchiette is ideal for holding sauce, other small, shaped pastas like cavatappi, gemelli, or even rigatoni can work well as a substitute.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The traditional recipe uses regular wheat pasta, but you can easily swap in gluten-free orecchiette or other gluten-free pasta options without changing the cooking method.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or seasoned mushrooms and use nutritional yeast or vegan cheese alternatives instead of parmesan.

How spicy is this dish by default?

The recipe has a mild to moderate spice level thanks to optional red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the heat to your liking or omit them altogether.

Final Thoughts

Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage is a versatile, delicious meal that feels special without demanding hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting Italian-inspired dinner anytime. Go ahead, give it a try and watch this become one of your favorite quick dinners!

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