Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli

Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli is a delightful dish that combines savory Italian sausage with fresh broccoli and tender orecchiette pasta. This meal is not only satisfying but also light, making it perfect for various occasions—from family dinners to casual gatherings. The harmony of flavors, enriched by a luscious sauce of olive oil and Parmesan, makes this recipe a standout choice for any home cook looking to impress.

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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
• Sausage Mixture
• Broccoli Sauce
• How to Make Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli
• Step 1: Cook the Sausage
• Step 2: Prepare the Pasta
• Step 3: Combine Broccoli with Sausage
• Step 4: Toss Everything Together
• Step 5: Serve
• How to Serve Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli
• Pair with Garlic Bread
• Top with Extra Parmesan
• Add Lemon Zest
• Serve with a Green Salad
• Include a Glass of White Wine
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs
• 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
• How do I make Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli vegetarian?
• Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
• What other ingredients can I add to Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli?
• How can I make Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli spicy?
• Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The combination of sausage, broccoli, and cheese creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and protein, this dish is both nutritious and delicious.
• Versatile Dish: Ideal for customizing with different sausages or adding other vegetables based on your preferences.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this tasty pasta dish!

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli effectively, you’ll need a few essential tools that make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pan
• Large pot

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pan: Perfect for sautéing sausage and veggies while allowing for even cooking.
• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta efficiently and ensuring it cooks evenly.

Ingredients

Pasta

• 1 (16-ounce) box orecchiette pasta (see note 1)

Sausage Mixture

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

Broccoli Sauce

• 1 cup chicken broth
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping (see note 3)
• 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 the casings from the sausage and add it to the pan along with 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and pepper.
3. Cook the sausage until browned, crumbling it as you go, about 5–7 minutes.
4. Reduce the heat to medium; stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, dried parsley, and red pepper flakes. Cook until fragrant, about 30–60 seconds.

Step 2: Prepare the Pasta

1. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water (about 2 teaspoons salt) to a boil.
2. Cook the orecchiette according to the package’s minimum time.
3. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining the pasta—do not rinse!

Step 3: Combine Broccoli with Sausage

1. In the same pan as your sausage mixture, add remaining olive oil, chicken broth, and broccoli florets.
2. Stir frequently until the broccoli becomes crisp-tender, about 3–5 minutes.
3. Add butter; stir until melted and let simmer until slightly reduced.

Step 4: Toss Everything Together

1. Add drained orecchiette to the pan with sausage and broccoli; toss well to combine.
2. Gradually add Parmesan cheese two tablespoons at a time while tossing until combined (add slowly to avoid clumping).
3. If needed, use reserved pasta water to thin out the sauce; squeeze in lemon juice if desired.

Step 5: Serve

1. Divide into bowls; top with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.
2. Enjoy your delicious Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli promptly!

How to Serve Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli

Orecchiette with sausage and broccoli is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual get-together, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic bread is a classic side that complements the savory flavors of the pasta and adds a delightful crunch.

Top with Extra Parmesan

• Extra Parmesan can enhance the creaminess of the dish. Sprinkle freshly grated cheese on top for added richness.

Add Lemon Zest

• Lemon zest brings a bright, fresh flavor. Grate some over the pasta just before serving to brighten the dish.

Serve with a Green Salad

• Green salad provides a refreshing contrast. Toss mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for balance.

Include a Glass of White Wine

• White wine, such as Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with this dish, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, add color and freshness. Chop and sprinkle them on top for an appealing finish.

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How to Perfect Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli

Achieving the perfect orecchiette with sausage and broccoli involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you master this delightful recipe.

• Use quality sausage: The flavor of your dish depends heavily on the sausage. Choose high-quality Italian sausage for the best taste.

• Cook pasta al dente: Ensure your orecchiette is cooked until al dente. This gives it a pleasant texture and allows it to hold up well in the sauce.

• Reserve pasta water: Always save some pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid helps emulsify your sauce for better consistency.

• Don’t rush adding cheese: Gradually incorporate Parmesan cheese into the sauce while tossing to prevent clumping and achieve an even distribution.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste your dish as you cook. Adjust salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes according to your preference for heat and flavor.

• Serve immediately: For the best experience, serve this dish right after cooking to enjoy its freshness and optimal texture.

Best Side Dishes for Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli

Serving side dishes alongside orecchiette with sausage and broccoli can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Caprese Salad: A refreshing mix of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide a delicious contrast to the pasta.
3. Antipasto Platter: A variety of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables make for an inviting appetizer.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil offers a flavorful starter.
5. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus spears seasoned with lemon juice complement the richness of the pasta dish.
6. Risotto: Creamy risotto can serve as an elegant accompaniment that balances out the hearty main course.
7. Zucchini Noodles: A light alternative that adds freshness without overwhelming the palate.
8. Italian Meatballs: Serve alongside for those who want an extra protein boost in their meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Using the wrong pasta: Always use orecchiette for the best texture and flavor. If unavailable, choose similar shapes like fusili or medium shells.
• Overcooking the broccoli: To keep broccoli crisp-tender, monitor cooking time closely. Cook for just 3-5 minutes until bright green.
• Not reserving pasta water: This starchy water is essential for creating a smooth sauce. Always reserve a cup before draining the pasta.
• Skimping on seasoning: Season your sausage and broth properly. Adjust salt and pepper to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
• Adding cheese too quickly: Gradually adding cheese helps it melt evenly into the sauce. Avoid clumping by mixing in small amounts at a time.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing for optimal freshness.

Freezing Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil until heated through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low-medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli vegetarian?

You can substitute Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli; just cook it longer until it’s heated through and tender.

What other ingredients can I add to Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli?

Feel free to add cherry tomatoes, spinach, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

How can I make Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli spicy?

For more heat, use spicy Italian sausage or add extra red pepper flakes according to your taste preferences.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare all ingredients ahead and store them separately until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli is a delightful blend of flavors that makes it perfect for any dinner table. This dish is not only satisfying but also versatile; you can customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. Give it a try tonight!