Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that embodies the heart of Italian cuisine! Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage and Baby Broccoli is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that brings warmth and comfort to your table. With its delightful combination of savory sausage, vibrant baby broccoli, and the unique texture of orecchiette, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a dish that impresses both the eyes and the palate. Are you ready to dive into the deliciousness? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces orecchiette pasta
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 2 cups baby broccoli
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add orecchiette pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While pasta cooks, remove Italian sausage from its casing and crumble into a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking meat into small pieces until browned and no pink remains.
- Mince garlic cloves finely. Add minced garlic to the sausage and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
- Trim the ends of baby broccoli and cut into bite-sized pieces. Add to the skillet with sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
- Drain cooked pasta and add directly to the skillet with sausage and broccoli. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Serve immediately in warm bowls, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Always remember to salt your pasta water generously; it should taste like the sea! This is your chance to infuse flavor into the pasta itself.
- Al Dente is Key: Cook the orecchiette until al dente for the best texture. The pasta will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sausage and broccoli.
- Sausage Secrets: For an extra flavor boost, try using spicy Italian sausage or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet for a kick!
- Pasta Water Magic: Don’t forget to reserve that cup of pasta water! It’s a great way to adjust the sauce's consistency and add flavor without extra fat.
- Freshness Matters: Use fresh baby broccoli for the best taste and texture. If you can’t find it, broccolini or regular broccoli florets can be a great substitute.
- Cheese, Please: Don’t skimp on the Parmesan! A generous sprinkle on top not only enhances flavor but also adds a beautiful finishing touch.
- Serve Warm: This dish is best enjoyed fresh and warm. Serve it immediately for the best taste experience, and feel free to garnish with extra cheese and freshly cracked pepper.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 580kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 75mg
