If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that’s both quick to prepare and full of flavor, look no further than Orecchiette Pasta with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli. This dish beautifully combines the unique texture of orecchiette pasta with savory chicken sausage and fresh broccoli, creating a vibrant and hearty meal that the whole family will love. With a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up this delightful recipe in no time. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this flavorful journey!

Reasons to Love Orecchiette Pasta with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli

Orecchiette Pasta with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli is a standout choice for several reasons:

Quick & Easy: This dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh broccoli and lean chicken sausage, this recipe is a nutritious option.
Flavorful: The combination of garlic, olive oil, and cheese elevates the flavors, ensuring each bite is delicious.
Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or substituting the chicken sausage with another protein.
Satisfying: The hearty orecchiette pasta combined with protein and vegetables makes for a filling meal.

Ingredient Notes

To create this flavorful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

14 oz package Italian chicken sausage – Make sure to remove the casing for easy cooking. This adds a savory depth to the dish.
12 oz uncooked orecchiette pasta – This pasta’s shape is perfect for holding onto the sauce and bits of sausage and broccoli.
6 1/2 cups fresh broccoli florets – Approximately 16 oz, the fresh broccoli adds color, nutrition, and a satisfying crunch.
5 cloves garlic – Smashed and chopped, garlic enhances the dish with its aromatic flavor.
1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese – This cheese adds a rich, salty flavor that complements the other ingredients.
2 tbsp olive oil – Divided for cooking, olive oil not only helps in sautéing but adds a lovely richness.
Kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper – Essential for seasoning, these will enhance all the flavors in the dish.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Before you start cooking, gather the following kitchen tools:

Large pot – For boiling the orecchiette pasta.
Skillet – To sauté the chicken sausage and broccoli.
Colander – For draining the pasta once cooked.
Wooden spoon – Ideal for mixing ingredients in the skillet.
Measuring cups and spoons – For precise measurements of ingredients.
Cheese grater – To grate the Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese.

Cooking Orecchiette Pasta with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli: The Process

Now that you have your ingredients and gear ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps for a delicious meal.

Step 1: Cook the Orecchiette Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the uncooked orecchiette pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken Sausage

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the Italian chicken sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break it into smaller pieces as it cooks. Sauté until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Broccoli

Once the sausage is browned, add the smashed and chopped garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the fresh broccoli florets to the skillet. Drizzle with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, season with kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper, and stir well. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Now, add the cooked orecchiette pasta to the skillet with the sausage and broccoli. Toss everything together gently. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese

Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Toss again to combine, allowing the cheese to melt slightly and coat the pasta.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the Orecchiette Pasta with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli immediately, garnished with additional cheese and freshly cracked pepper if desired. Enjoy the delightful flavors and textures of this comforting dish!

Holiday-Friendly Variations

This dish is versatile and can be adapted for various occasions. Here are some holiday-friendly variations to consider:

Swap the Veggies: Try adding asparagus, spinach, or kale for a seasonal twist.
Make it Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta for a richer sauce.
Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, perfect for festive gatherings.
Go Vegan: Substitute the chicken sausage with plant-based sausage and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a vegan version.

Don’t Do This

When making Orecchiette Pasta with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli, steer clear of the following common pitfalls:

Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente for the best texture.
Avoid using stale or old broccoli, as freshness is key to this dish’s flavor profile.
Don’t forget to reserve pasta water; it helps to create a silky sauce.
Refrain from skimping on seasoning; proper salt and pepper can make all the difference in flavor.

Save It for Later

If you have leftovers, you can easily store them for future meals:

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, add a splash of water or broth in a skillet over medium heat to prevent drying out.
This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing!

What to Make After This

Once you’ve enjoyed Orecchiette Pasta with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli, consider trying these recipes next:

Final Thoughts

Orecchiette Pasta with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors, colors, and textures that come together in a delightful way. With its simplicity and adaptability, it’s no wonder this dish has become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just a cozy night in, this recipe promises a satisfying experience that’s both comforting and nourishing. Give it a try, and let the aromas fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table for a delicious feast!