Jersey Girl Cooks Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage and Broccoli

If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful dish that’s both hearty and wholesome, look no further than Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage and Broccoli. This classic Italian recipe combines tender orecchiette pasta, savory sausage, and vibrant broccoli, all brought together in a savory sauce. It’s a perfect meal for any night of the week, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures.

🥦 Ingredients

• 1 lb orecchiette pasta
• 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, casing removed)
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes, optional for a spicy kickOprah.com

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for about 3 minutes until tender-crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked broccoli to the skillet, stirring to combine. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
5. Cook the Pasta: In the same pot of boiling water, cook the orecchiette pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
6. Bring It All Together: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sausage and broccoli. Pour in the chicken broth and reserved pasta water, stirring to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
7. Finish the Dish: Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil. Pair it with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, to complement the flavors. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side of crusty bread to soak up any remaining sauce.

📝 Tips and Variations

• Add Heat: For a spicier version, use hot Italian sausage and increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly dish.
• Extra Veggies: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to add more color and nutrients.Williams Sonoma
• Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or mascarpone cheese for a richer, creamier sauce.

📌 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage and Broccoli is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. The combination of hearty pasta, savory sausage, and fresh broccoli creates a balanced meal that’s both comforting and nutritious. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

🔗 Explore More Recipes

Looking for more delicious pasta dishes? Check out these recipes:

• Pasta Primavera
• Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
• Fettuccine Alfredo

Each of these recipes offers unique flavors and ingredients, providing a variety of options to suit your taste preferences.

Note: For the original recipe and more details, visit Oprah.com.

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