If you’re craving a dinner that’s both comforting and delightfully simple, this One Pot Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender little pasta ears perfectly coated in a creamy, garlicky sauce, with savory Italian sausage and vibrant green broccoli adding layers of flavor and texture. It’s a dish that feels hearty and special without a ton of fuss, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or casual weekend meals with friends and family. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this One Pot Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Recipe lies in its simple, quality ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each item plays an essential role, whether it’s building depth with sausage, adding freshness with broccoli, or creating creaminess with Parmesan and butter.
- 12 ounces orecchiette pasta: Small, ear-shaped pasta that holds sauce beautifully and offers a lovely chewy bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to brown the sausage and bring out its rich flavors.
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed): The savory star of the dish, delivering robust and aromatic taste.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Adds a fragrant punch that elevates every bite.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Perfect for those who like a gentle hint of heat.
- 3 cups broccoli florets (cut into small pieces): Offers vibrant color and a nutritious crunch.
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth: The cooking liquid that infuses the pasta with more flavor than water ever could.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle warmth and sharpness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Creates a luscious, creamy texture and a salty, nutty finish.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Melts into the pasta for extra richness and silkiness.
How to Make One Pot Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage after removing the casings, then break it up gently with your spoon. Cook until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through, usually about 6 to 8 minutes. This step is key for building that deeply savory foundation.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes
Next, toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if you want a bit of a spicy kick. Sauté these for just one minute until they release their tantalizing aroma. This quick step adds that perfect hint of garlic heat that makes your kitchen smell irresistible.
Step 3: Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Broth
Now add the orecchiette pasta, the fresh broccoli florets, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Give everything a good stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered. Stir occasionally as it cooks for 12 to 15 minutes until the pasta is al dente and the liquid has mostly evaporated—this is where the flavors concentrate beautifully.
Step 4: Finish with Cheese and Butter
Once the pasta is perfectly tender, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and butter. The cheese will melt down to create a silky, creamy coating that clings to every orecchiette, while the butter adds a luscious touch of indulgence. Serve the dish hot for the best experience.
How to Serve One Pot Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
To really make this dish shine on the table, consider sprinkling additional Parmesan or topping it with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of green freshness. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can add a subtle fruitiness that complements the sausage perfectly.
Side Dishes
This recipe is hearty enough to stand on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, crisp garlic bread or a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette are excellent choices. They bring nice texture contrasts and keep the meal feeling light yet satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
You can elevate presentation by serving this in shallow bowls with a sprinkling of toasted pine nuts for crunch or even a few chili oil drops if you like it spicy. For hosting, consider plating on warm ceramic dishes to keep everything cozy and inviting while everyone digs in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from the One Pot Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it properly before refrigerating to maintain the pasta’s texture and flavor.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it’s best to freeze the pasta without the cheese and butter mixed in. Store the plain cooked pasta and sausage mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to one month, then add fresh Parmesan and butter after thawing and reheating to preserve the dish’s creamy goodness.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the leftovers gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. Stir thoroughly and add a little extra grated Parmesan or butter if the dish seems dry. Microwave reheating works too but tends to dry pasta out faster, so watch it closely.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli is a convenient substitute. Just add it halfway through cooking so it doesn’t get too mushy. It’s a great way to save time without sacrificing nutrition or flavor.
What type of sausage works best?
Italian sausage is traditional and flavorful, but feel free to swap in spicy sausage for a bolder taste or turkey sausage for a lighter option. Adjust seasonings accordingly depending on the sausage’s seasoning level.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the sausage for plant-based sausage or hearty mushrooms to mimic the texture and savoriness. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep the vegetarian integrity intact.
Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?
Certainly! Use gluten-free orecchiette or any other small gluten-free pasta. Just watch the cooking time closely because gluten-free pasta tends to cook a bit faster and can become mushy if overcooked.
How spicy is this dish with the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add only a gentle warmth unless you increase the amount. It’s optional and easy to adjust so that this One Pot Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Recipe perfectly suits your heat preference.
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Recipe is a wonderful blend of flavors and textures that I truly love sharing with friends. Its simplicity, coupled with rich, comforting tastes, means it’s a recipe you’ll reach for again and again. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxing weekend, this dish promises warmth and satisfaction in every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own kitchen classic!
Print
One Pot Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A hearty and creamy one pot orecchiette pasta dish featuring savory Italian sausage, fresh broccoli, and a rich Parmesan butter sauce. This easy stovetop recipe combines tender pasta and veggies in a flavorful broth for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 ounces orecchiette pasta
- 3 cups broccoli florets (cut into small pieces)
Meat and Seasonings
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Liquids and Dairy
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Cook the sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook while breaking it up with a spoon until browned and fully cooked, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Sauté the aromatics: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the sausage, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add pasta and vegetables: Stir in the orecchiette pasta, broccoli florets, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Finish the dish: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and butter until melted and creamy. Serve the pasta hot.
Notes
- Use spicy Italian sausage for a spicier dish or turkey sausage for a lighter alternative.
- Frozen broccoli can substitute fresh broccoli; add it halfway through cooking to avoid overcooking.
