Description
This Easy Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage recipe combines tender ear-shaped pasta with savory Italian sausage, garlic, and greens, creating a flavorful and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners. Ready in under 30 minutes, it offers a satisfying and versatile dish that can be adapted to different dietary preferences and spice levels.
Ingredients
Scale
Primary Ingredients
- 12 oz Orecchiette Pasta
- 1 lb Italian Sausage (sweet or spicy, casings removed)
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
- 4 cups Spinach or Broccoli Rabe
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese, freshly grated
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- 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 use.
- Cook the Sausage: While the pasta cooks, crumble the sausage into a large skillet over medium heat. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté Garlic and Greens: Add olive oil to the skillet with the sausage, then stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté until the garlic is fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the spinach or broccoli rabe and cook until wilted and tender.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss gently with the sausage and greens mixture. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time to create a silky, well-coated sauce that clings to the pasta.
- Finish with Cheese and Seasoning: Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle generously with freshly grated parmesan cheese, and stir to melt. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately for best flavor.
Notes
- Don’t overcook the pasta; aim for al dente to preserve texture.
- Reserve pasta water to help bind the sauce smoothly without cream.
- Brown the sausage well to add depth of flavor and texture contrast.
- Use fresh garlic, herbs, and quality cheese for the best taste.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred heat level.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Orecchiette, Italian Sausage, Pasta, Quick Dinner, Comfort Food, Gluten-Free Option, Weeknight Meal
