Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli

Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage with the vibrant crunch of broccoli. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, showcasing a harmonious blend of savory ingredients that everyone will love. The light yet satisfying sauce made from olive oil, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese elevates this dish, making it a standout in any meal rotation.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under an hour.
• Savory Flavor Profile: The combination of Italian sausage and fresh broccoli creates a mouthwatering dish that is both comforting and satisfying.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily switch up the ingredients based on what you have on hand—feel free to use different pasta shapes or sausages!
• Healthy Option: Packed with fiber from the broccoli and protein from the sausage, this dish offers a well-rounded meal option.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe appeals to all ages, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, it’s essential to gather your tools. Having everything on hand will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pan
• Large pot

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Pan: Ideal for sautéing ingredients evenly and ensuring they develop rich flavors.
• Large Pot: Necessary for boiling pasta efficiently while allowing enough space to prevent sticking.

Ingredients

To prepare Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Pasta

• 1 (16-ounce) box orecchiette pasta

Sausage and Seasonings

• 19 ounces Italian sausage, sweet or spicy
• 5 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• Salt and pepper
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Vegetables and Broth

• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup chicken broth

Finishing Touches

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
• 1 lemon (optional)
• Fresh flat-leaf parsley (optional)

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How to Make Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

1. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to a large pan over medium-high heat.
2. Remove the casings from the sausage and add it to the pan along with 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and pepper.
3. Cook and crumble until browned, about 5–7 minutes.
4. Reduce heat to medium, then add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, dried parsley flakes, and red pepper flakes. Stir until fragrant for about 30–60 seconds.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

1. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water (about 2 teaspoons) to boil.
2. Add orecchiette pasta and cook according to package instructions for al dente texture.
3. Reserve one cup of pasta water before draining the pasta—do not rinse!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. To the sausage pan, add 4 tablespoons of olive oil, chicken broth, and broccoli florets.
2. Cook while stirring frequently until broccoli is crisp-tender, around 3–5 minutes.
3. Add butter to the mixture and stir until melted. Allow simmering until slightly reduced.

Step 4: Mix in Pasta

1. Add drained orecchiette pasta into the sausage and broccoli mixture.
2. Toss well while gradually adding Parmesan cheese (a couple of tablespoons at a time) until fully combined—this helps prevent clumping.
3. If necessary, incorporate reserved pasta water for desired sauce consistency. Optionally add lemon juice for brightness.

Step 5: Serve

1. Divide the pasta among bowls.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.
3. Enjoy promptly for the best flavor!

How to Serve Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli

Serving Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli is all about presentation and enhancing the flavors of this delightful dish. Here are some creative ways to serve it that will impress your family and guests alike.

Classic Presentation

• Serve in wide, shallow bowls for a traditional Italian look. This allows the vibrant colors of the broccoli and sausage to shine.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil on top just before serving. This adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness.

Add a Zesty Twist

• A squeeze of lemon juice over each serving brightens up the dish and complements the richness of the sausage and cheese.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Offer slices of crusty Italian bread on the side for dipping into the sauce. It’s perfect for soaking up every last bit!

Cheese Lover’s Delight

• Serve extra grated Parmesan on the table for those who love a cheesy flavor.

Family Style

• Present the dish in a large serving bowl so everyone can help themselves. This encourages sharing and creates a warm, communal atmosphere.

How to Perfect Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli

To achieve the best results when making Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli, consider these helpful tips.

• Use high-quality sausage – The flavor of your dish greatly depends on the quality of the sausage. Choose fresh Italian sausage for optimal taste.
• Don’t overcook broccoli – Cook broccoli until it’s crisp-tender to maintain its vibrant color and nutrients. You want it to have a slight crunch.
• Reserve pasta water – Save some pasta water before draining. Adding it back into your sauce helps achieve a perfect consistency.
• Grate cheese fresh – Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-grated options, which can be too salty or clumpy.
• Taste as you go – Adjust seasonings gradually while cooking, ensuring that every bite is flavorful without overwhelming saltiness.
• Serve immediately – For best flavor and texture, enjoy this dish right after cooking. Reheating may alter its quality.

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Best Side Dishes for Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli

Pairing side dishes with Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread – A classic choice that complements any pasta dish beautifully; simply spread butter mixed with minced garlic on toasted bread.
2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing adds freshness and crunch to balance out the rich pasta.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini roasted until golden provide a healthy side that’s easy to prepare.
4. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offers a refreshing contrast to the savory pasta.
5. Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus spears add elegance to your plate and pair well with Italian cuisine.
6. Antipasto Platter – A mix of olives, cheeses, cured meats, and marinated vegetables makes for an enticing appetizer that sets the tone for your meal.
7. Arugula Salad – A simple salad with peppery arugula dressed in olive oil and lemon enhances your meal’s brightness without overpowering flavors.
8. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn grilled to perfection adds a summery touch that everyone will enjoy alongside this hearty dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the salt in pasta water: Not salting the water can lead to bland pasta. Always add salt when boiling pasta for enhanced flavor.
• Overcooking the broccoli: Cooking broccoli too long will make it mushy. Aim for crisp-tender broccoli by cooking for just 3–5 minutes.
• Using pre-grated cheese: Pre-grated Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Grate fresh Parmesan for the best results.
• Not reserving pasta water: Forgetting to save some pasta water can hinder sauce consistency. Reserve a cup before draining the pasta to adjust sauce thickness later.
• Forgetting to taste: Neglecting to taste your dish before serving can result in unbalanced flavors. Always taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli

• This dish does not freeze well due to the broccoli’s texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake in a covered dish for about 15-20 minutes, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a little chicken broth to maintain moisture.
• Stovetop: Reheat on low heat in a pan, adding a splash of chicken broth until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli?

Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli is a comforting Italian pasta dish featuring orecchiette pasta, savory sausage, and healthy broccoli, all coated in a flavorful sauce.

Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes! You can use either sweet or spicy Italian sausage based on your preference. Both varieties work well in this recipe.

How do I make Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli healthier?

To make this dish healthier, consider using turkey sausage instead of pork sausage, or increase the amount of broccoli for added nutrients.

What can I substitute for Orecchiette?

If you can’t find orecchiette, fusili, farfalle, medium shells, or penne are great alternatives that will still work well with the dish.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for additional flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any weeknight dinner. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting the spice level. Give this comforting dish a try—your family will love it!