Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli

Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli is a delightful dish that combines hearty ingredients for a fulfilling meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, this recipe brings together the rich flavors of Italian sausage and vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a savory sauce. It’s easy to prepare and offers a comforting taste that everyone will enjoy.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Pasta
• Main Ingredients
• Seasonings
• Vegetables & Broth
• Finishing Touches
• How to Make Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli
• Step 1: Cook the Sausage
• Step 2: Boil the Pasta
• Step 3: Combine Ingredients
• Step 4: Toss Everything Together
• Step 5: Serve
• How to Serve Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli
• Family Style
• With Lemon Wedges
• Topped with Extra Parmesan
• Accompanied by Crusty Bread
• Garnished with Fresh Herbs
• Served with a Side Salad
• How to Perfect Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli
• Best Side Dishes for Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli
• Reheating Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use different types of pasta?
• What type of sausage is best for Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli?
• How do I make this dish healthier?
• Can I prepare Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of sausage, broccoli, and Parmesan creates a mouthwatering sauce that clings to the orecchiette.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute the sausage or pasta according to your preferences or dietary needs.
• Family-Friendly Dish: This recipe is sure to please both kids and adults, making it an ideal choice for family dinners.
• Light Yet Satisfying: Despite being comfort food, this dish is surprisingly light and healthy.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this tasty recipe, make sure you have the right tools ready. This will ensure a smooth cooking process and help you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pan
• Large pot

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pan: Essential for browning the sausage and sautéing the vegetables evenly.
• Large pot: Necessary for boiling the pasta to achieve the perfect texture.

Ingredients

Pasta

• 1 (16-ounce) box orecchiette pasta

Main Ingredients

• 5 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 19 ounces Italian sausage, sweet or spicy
• Salt and pepper

Seasonings

• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Vegetables & Broth

• 1 cup chicken broth
• 4 cups broccoli florets

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)

How to Make Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

1. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil to a large pan over medium-high heat.
2. Remove casings from 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 and stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, dried parsley, and red pepper flakes; cook until fragrant (30–60 seconds).

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

1. While the sausage cooks, bring a large pot of salted water (2 teaspoons salt) to a boil.
2. Cook orecchiette according to package instructions for minimum time.
3. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining; do not rinse pasta.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. In the same pan with cooked sausage, add remaining olive oil (4 tablespoons), chicken broth, and broccoli florets.
2. Stir frequently until broccoli is crisp-tender (about 3–5 minutes).
3. Add butter and stir until melted; simmer until sauce slightly reduces.

Step 4: Toss Everything Together

1. Add drained pasta to the sausage-broccoli mixture; toss well to combine.
2. Gradually incorporate Parmesan cheese (about 2 tablespoons at a time) while tossing; add reserved pasta water if needed to thin out sauce.
3. Optionally squeeze lemon juice over the dish for added brightness.

Step 5: Serve

1. Divide into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
2. Enjoy promptly while hot!

How to Serve Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli

Orecchiette with sausage and broccoli is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate this comforting meal.

Family Style

• Serve the pasta in a large bowl to encourage sharing. This creates a warm, communal feel at the dinner table.

With Lemon Wedges

• Include lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze fresh juice over their servings. It adds brightness and balances the richness of the dish.

Topped with Extra Parmesan

• Offer freshly grated Parmesan cheese at the table. A sprinkle of cheese enhances flavor and gives a nice finish.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

• Pair with slices of crusty bread or garlic bread. This is perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle some fresh flat-leaf parsley on top for a pop of color and added freshness.

Served with a Side Salad

• Complement the dish with a light salad, such as arugula or mixed greens, dressed simply with olive oil and vinegar. It provides a refreshing contrast.

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How to Perfect Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli

Achieving the perfect orecchiette with sausage and broccoli involves attention to detail during preparation. Here are some essential tips to help you make this dish shine.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality Italian sausage for better flavor. Fresh ingredients always yield tastier results.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure the orecchiette is cooked al dente for the best texture. This prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.

• Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta cooking water before draining. It helps adjust the sauce consistency without sacrificing flavor.

• Emulsify Sauce: Mix pasta thoroughly in the sauce. This ensures every piece is coated and enhances overall taste.

• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your dish before serving, adjusting salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as desired for personalized flavor.

• Serve Immediately: Enjoy your orecchiette while it’s hot and fresh for the best experience.

Best Side Dishes for Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli

To complement your orecchiette with sausage and broccoli, consider these delightful side dishes. They will round out your meal beautifully.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up leftover sauce.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add freshness and acidity.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted veggies brings additional nutrients and flavors to your meal.
4. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing provides crunch and creaminess alongside your pasta.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil offers a refreshing appetizer option.
6. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus seasoned with lemon zest complements the richness of the pasta nicely.
7. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables makes for an inviting starter.
8. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve spiralized zucchini noodles lightly sautéed as an alternative side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the salt in the water: Not salting your pasta water can lead to bland pasta. Always add a generous pinch of salt to enhance flavor.
• Overcooking the broccoli: Cooking broccoli too long can make it mushy. Aim for crisp-tender florets by cooking only 3–5 minutes.
• Not reserving pasta water: Forgetting to save pasta water can affect your sauce’s texture. Reserve at least one cup before draining for a silky finish.
• Using pre-grated cheese: Pre-grated Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that prevent melting. Use a block of cheese and grate it fresh for the best results.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Low-quality sausage can ruin the dish’s flavor. Choose high-quality Italian sausage for a more robust taste.
• Rushing the emulsification process: Mixing ingredients too quickly can lead to separation. Take your time to toss until everything is well combined.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the dish cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• To prevent freezing, consider leaving out the cheese until ready to serve.

Reheating Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Add a splash of chicken broth if needed.
• Stovetop: In a skillet, add a little olive oil and reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! If you can’t find orecchiette, you can substitute with fusili, farfalle, or penne for similar results.

What type of sausage is best for Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli?

Both sweet and spicy Italian sausages work wonderfully in this dish. Choose according to your taste preference!

How do I make this dish healthier?

You can lighten it by using turkey sausage or adding more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.

Can I prepare Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components ahead of time and combine them just before serving.

Final Thoughts

Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli is not just a hearty meal; it’s also adaptable and easy to make. You can customize it with various veggies or protein options, making it perfect for any night of the week. Try this delightful recipe today!