Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Rabe
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.
- 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
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orecchiette according to package instructions.
- Add the broccoli rabe during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking. Drain, reserving some pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart.
- Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant.
- Add the drained pasta and broccoli rabe to the skillet and toss to combine.
- Add a splash of reserved pasta water to create a light sauce.
- Stir in grated parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
- 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
