Pasta with Sausage and Broccolini

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is simple yet packed with bold flavors. The sausage adds richness, the broccolini brings a fresh and slightly peppery bite, and the pasta ties it all together in a delicious, cohesive dish. It’s made with just a few ingredients and comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings. Plus, it’s easy to adapt with different pastas, sausages, or vegetables.

Ingredients

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

• Pasta (rigatoni, orecchiette, penne, or your favorite short pasta)
• Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
• Broccolini, trimmed and chopped
• Garlic
• Olive oil
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
• Pasta cooking water (reserved)

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions. Add the broccolini to the boiling pasta water during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking. Drain and reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked.
3. Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the drained pasta and broccolini to the skillet with the sausage. Toss to combine.
5. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time to help loosen the mixture and create a light sauce that coats the pasta.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Use hot Italian sausage and extra red pepper flakes.
• Lemon Zest Finish: Add lemon zest and juice at the end for a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Creamy Option: Stir in a splash of cream or a spoonful of ricotta for a creamy texture.
• Different Greens: Substitute broccolini with broccoli rabe, spinach, or kale.
• Whole Grain or Gluten-Free: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary needs.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving for too long to prevent drying out the pasta.

FAQs

What is broccolini?

Broccolini is a tender green vegetable similar to broccoli, with longer stalks and smaller florets. It has a slightly sweeter and milder flavor.

Can I use regular broccoli instead of broccolini?

Yes, just chop it into bite-sized pieces and blanch or cook it similarly.

What type of sausage works best?

Italian sausage—either mild or spicy—adds the most flavor. You can use pork, chicken, or turkey sausage.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can cook all the components ahead and combine them just before serving. Reheat with a splash of pasta water or broth.

What pasta shape is best?

Short pastas like orecchiette, rigatoni, or penne work best as they hold the sauce and sausage well.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but it can be frozen. Reheat gently and add a bit of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Can I make this without cheese?

Yes, it’s still delicious without cheese. Add a drizzle of olive oil or lemon juice for extra flavor.

How do I keep the pasta from drying out?

Reserve pasta water and add it during mixing to keep the dish moist and saucy.

What can I serve with this pasta?

Serve it with a side salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, just use mild sausage and skip the red pepper flakes for a more kid-friendly version.

Conclusion

Pasta with Sausage and Broccolini is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that delivers comfort and nutrition in every bite. It’s the perfect blend of savory sausage, tender pasta, and vibrant greens—all ready in about 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking for a new weeknight favorite, this recipe is a reliable, delicious choice.

Pasta with Sausage and Broccolini

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Pasta with Sausage and Broccolini is a rustic, hearty dish that pairs savory Italian sausage with tender pasta and fresh broccolini, all tossed in a garlicky olive oil sauce. It’s simple, flavorful, and ready in just 30 minutes.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (rigatoni, orecchiette, or penne)
• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
• 1 bunch broccolini, trimmed and chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
• 1 cup reserved pasta cooking water

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Add broccolini during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
2. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked.
3. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add drained pasta and broccolini to the skillet with sausage. Toss to combine.
5. Gradually stir in reserved pasta water until a light sauce coats the pasta.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Notes

• Swap broccolini for broccoli rabe, spinach, or kale.
• Use hot sausage and extra chili flakes for a spicy kick.
• Add lemon zest and juice at the end for a bright finish.
• For a creamy version, stir in ricotta or a splash of cream.
• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta as needed.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 65mg