Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Rabe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish delivers bold, satisfying flavor with a perfect balance of richness and freshness. The sausage adds depth and savoriness, while broccoli rabe brings a pleasant bitterness that cuts through the richness. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive enough to serve guests, and it uses simple ingredients to create something truly delicious.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Orecchiette pasta
• Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casing removed
• Broccoli rabe, trimmed and chopped
• Olive oil
• Garlic, sliced or minced
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orecchiette according to package instructions.
2. In the same pot, add the broccoli rabe during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking. Drain, reserving a bit of pasta water.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
4. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté until fragrant.
5. Add the drained pasta and broccoli rabe to the skillet. Toss to combine.
6. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to help create a light sauce.
7. Stir in grated parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve warm with extra cheese on top.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Less bitter: Substitute broccoli rabe with regular broccoli.
• Vegetarian option: Use plant-based sausage or omit it entirely.
• Extra garlic: Add more garlic for a stronger flavor.
• Cheesy twist: Add pecorino romano instead of parmesan.
• Lemon finish: Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

What is orecchiette?

It’s a small, ear-shaped pasta that holds sauce well.

What does broccoli rabe taste like?

It has a slightly bitter, earthy flavor.

Can I use a different pasta?

Yes, small pasta shapes like shells or penne work well.

How do I reduce bitterness?

Blanch the broccoli rabe briefly before cooking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well for later meals.

What sausage works best?

Italian sausage, either mild or spicy, is ideal.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s not recommended, as the texture may change.

What cheese should I use?

Parmesan or pecorino romano both work well.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, mushrooms or cherry tomatoes are great additions.

Is this dish spicy?

Only if you add red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage.

Conclusion

Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Rabe is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings together simple ingredients in a delicious way. With its perfect balance of savory, bitter, and cheesy elements, it’s a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and always a hit.

Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Rabe

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Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Rabe is a classic Italian pasta dish featuring savory sausage, slightly bitter greens, and garlic in a light, flavorful sauce. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Low Calorie

Ingredients

• Orecchiette pasta
• Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casing removed
• Broccoli rabe, trimmed and chopped
• Olive oil
• Garlic, sliced or minced
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orecchiette according to package instructions.
2. Add the broccoli rabe during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking. Drain, reserving some pasta water.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart.
4. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant.
5. Add the drained pasta and broccoli rabe to the skillet and toss to combine.
6. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to create a light sauce.
7. Stir in grated parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve warm with extra cheese if desired.

Notes

• Blanch broccoli rabe beforehand to reduce bitterness if desired.
• Substitute broccoli for a milder flavor.
• Use pecorino romano instead of parmesan for a sharper taste.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat with a splash of water or oil.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 540 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 720 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 48 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 24 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg