There’s a certain joy in knowing a satisfying, home-cooked meal is only 30 minutes away. Picture this: after a long day, I find myself wandering into the kitchen aiming to whip up something delicious but quick. That’s where my go-to recipe for Orecchiette Pasta with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli comes into play—a vibrant dish that combines chewy pasta with juicy sausage and fresh greens, all in one pot.
The moment the garlic hits the hot oil, the kitchen fills with an inviting aroma that pulls everyone in. It’s a dish that not only satisfies cravings but also cultivates warmth and togetherness, whether I’m cooking for family or entertaining friends. The best part? It’s easily adaptable. Whether you’re vegan or just looking to switch things up, this dish welcomes your favorite ingredients with open arms.
So grab your skillet, sprinkle in some heartiness with Italian sausage, or go for a plant-based alternative. Whichever route you choose, this pasta dish promises to transform your busy weeknight into a delightful culinary experience!
Why is 30 Minute Orecchiette Pasta a must-try?
Speedy Preparation: This recipe allows you to whip up a delicious meal in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlicky sautéed sausage and crisp broccoli creates an explosion of flavor that your family will love.
Adaptable Ingredients: Easily swap out proteins or veggies to tailor it to your taste or dietary needs—try using shrimp or a vegan option!
Comfort Food: This one-pot wonder brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table, making it a go-to favorite.
Minimal Cleanup: With just one pot to clean, you can enjoy your meal without the hassle of extensive dishwashing. Elevate your weeknight dinners with this satisfying dish, and don’t forget to check out Tomato Basil Pasta for another quick meal option!
30 Minute Orecchiette Pasta Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Orecchiette Pasta – Perfect for capturing sauce and flavors; any pasta shape can work, even gluten-free.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor; use generously in the boiling water for the best results.
For the Meat
• Italian Chicken Sausage – Adds savory goodness and protein; substitute with turkey sausage or plant-based sausage for a vegan option.
For the Vegetables
• Fresh Broccoli Florets – Brings nutrition and a crunch; feel free to swap with zucchini or asparagus if desired.
• Garlic – Provides aromatic depth; fresh cloves are ideal for maximum flavor.
For the Sauce
• Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing; opt for extra virgin for the richest taste.
• Pecorino Romano or Parmesan Cheese – For creaminess and richness; nutritional yeast can make for a great vegan alternative.
• Fresh Cracked Pepper – Adds a touch of spice; adjust to your preference for extra flavor.
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to creating a delicious 30 Minute Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage and Broccoli dish that your family will adore!
How to Make 30 Minute Orecchiette Pasta
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orecchiette pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining to use later.
- Sauté the Sausage: In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian chicken sausage, breaking it apart. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Toss in the smashed garlic into the skillet. Sauté until fragrant, approximately 1 minute, being careful not to let it burn.
- Finish with Broccoli: Stir in the fresh broccoli florets. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the broccoli is tender and bright green, about 3-5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Toss the drained orecchiette into the skillet, mixing well. Add reserved pasta water gradually, adjusting the consistency to your preference.
- Mix in Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in your choice of cheese until fully melted. Serve immediately, topped with extra cheese and freshly cracked pepper, if desired.
Optional: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
30 Minute Orecchiette Pasta Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize this delightful pasta dish with these enticing variations!
- Vegan Swap: Replace chicken sausage with plant-based sausage and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a tasty vegan option.
- Shrimp Boost: Add shrimp instead of sausage for a delicate seafood twist that cooks up quickly and enhances the dish’s flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute orecchiette with gluten-free pasta, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy.
- Veggie Medley: Mix in seasonal veggies like cherry tomatoes or spinach along with the broccoli for a colorful and nutritious upgrade.
- Creamy Delight: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese at the end for an indulgently creamy finish that elevates the dish.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes during sautéing for a delightful spicy heat that gives this pasta an exciting flair.
- Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest before serving brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing twist.
- Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving to elevate the dish’s aroma and add a pop of flavor.
With these adaptations, each time you make this dish, it can feel like a new culinary adventure!
What to Serve with 30 Minute Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage and Broccoli?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful side dishes that perfectly complement this vibrant, wholesome pasta dish.
- Garlic Bread: A warm and crunchy side that pairs beautifully, soaking up the delicious sauce from your pasta.
- Mixed Green Salad: Crisp greens tossed with a light vinaigrette bring a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta, adding brightness to every bite.
- Grilled Asparagus: Tender and slightly charred, asparagus adds an elegant touch while enhancing the meal’s nutritional profile and flavor.
- Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: Their juicy sweetness will harmonize with the savory flavors in the pasta, creating a delightful burst in each mouthful.
- Lemon Sorbet: A zesty palate cleanser to serve afterward, it refreshes the senses with a light, citrusy finish that perfectly rounds off the meal.
- Sparkling Water with Lemon: This effervescent drink enhances the dining experience, balancing the richness of the dish while invigorating your palate.
How to Store and Freeze 30 Minute Orecchiette Pasta
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Before serving, gently reheat with a splash of reserved pasta water to restore moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little extra olive oil or reserved pasta water to keep the pasta from drying out.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving cooked pasta out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent foodborne illness.
Expert Tips for 30 Minute Orecchiette Pasta
- Cook Smart: Ensure the sausage is entirely cooked through to enhance flavor and prevent any food safety issues.
- Creamy Touch: For a creamier finish, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta just before serving.
- Pasta Perfection: Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be al dente. Reserve enough pasta water to loosen the dish if it seems dry.
- Garlic Care: Keep a close eye on the garlic while sautéing to prevent burning, which can lead to a bitter taste.
- Flavor Flexibility: Don’t hesitate to swap in your favorite veggies or proteins to customize this 30 Minute Orecchiette Pasta to your taste.
30 Minute Orecchiette Pasta with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Recipe FAQs
What type of broccoli should I use?
I recommend using fresh broccoli florets for the best crunch and flavor. If you can’t find them, feel free to swap with other green vegetables like zucchini or asparagus, which also work wonderfully in this dish!
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To maintain the flavors and moisture, I suggest gently reheating the pasta with a splash of reserved pasta water.
Can I freeze the 30 Minute Orecchiette Pasta?
Absolutely! You can freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Let them thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. For best results, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little extra olive oil or reserved pasta water.
What if my pasta seems too dry after cooking?
No worries! If you find that your pasta is a bit dry after combining everything, just add some of the reserved pasta water gradually to adjust the consistency. It’ll bring everything together and make it just as delicious as when it was first made.
Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
Yes! To make this 30 Minute Orecchiette Pasta vegan, simply substitute the chicken sausage with a plant-based sausage and replace the cheese with nutritional yeast. This way, you still get all the satisfying flavors without any animal products.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Certainly! While Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese adds rich flavor, feel free to use any cheese you prefer—or skip the cheese altogether! Nutritional yeast is an excellent vegan alternative that gives a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Delicious 30 Minute Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage & Broccoli
Equipment
- large pot
- Skillet
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 ounces Orecchiette Pasta Any pasta shape can work, even gluten-free.
- 1 tablespoon Kosher Salt Use generously in boiling water.
For the Meat
- 14 ounces Italian Chicken Sausage Substitute with turkey sausage or plant-based sausage for a vegan option.
For the Vegetables
- 2 cups Fresh Broccoli Florets Can swap with zucchini or asparagus.
- 4 cloves Garlic Fresh cloves are ideal for maximum flavor.
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Opt for extra virgin for the richest taste.
- 1 cup Pecorino Romano or Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast can be a vegan alternative.
- to taste Fresh Cracked Pepper Adjust to your preference.
Instructions
How to Make 30 Minute Orecchiette Pasta
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orecchiette pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining to use later.
- Sauté the Sausage: In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian chicken sausage, breaking it apart. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Toss in the smashed garlic into the skillet. Sauté until fragrant, approximately 1 minute, being careful not to let it burn.
- Finish with Broccoli: Stir in the fresh broccoli florets. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the broccoli is tender and bright green, about 3-5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Toss the drained orecchiette into the skillet, mixing well. Add reserved pasta water gradually, adjusting the consistency to your preference.
- Mix in Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in your choice of cheese until fully melted. Serve immediately, topped with extra cheese and freshly cracked pepper, if desired.
Notes
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