Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage Recipe

If you’re searching for a dinner that’s rich, satisfying, and on the table in about 30 minutes, Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage might just become your new weeknight hero! This one-pan wonder combines savory Italian sausage, tender orecchiette pasta, a luxuriously creamy sauce, and just enough greens and cheese—every bite is pure, cozy comfort.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Part of Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage’s charm is in its short, honest ingredient list—each one earns its spot, adding either robust flavor, irresistible creaminess, or that just-right pop of freshness. Here’s how each component brings this pasta perfection together:

• Ground Italian sausage: Go for hot or sweet depending on your preference, but this is the savory, spicy backbone of the entire dish. If using links, just remove the casings for the best texture.
• Onion (diced): A caramelized foundation that mellows and sweetens as it cooks with the sausage.
• Freshly minced garlic: Adds aromatic depth and classic Italian punch that lingers in every bite.
• Salt & Italian seasoning: The simple way to coax out all the flavor—adjust salt according to your sausage’s seasoning.
• Low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the sauce flavorful but not overpowering; plus, the pasta soaks it up as it cooks, infusing more taste.
• Heavy whipping cream: The magic that turns your sauce ultra-creamy; you can swap for half-and-half for a lighter touch, but nothing beats the richness here.
• Orecchiette pasta: This “little ears” pasta is made for trapping sausage crumbles and creamy sauce, giving you a delicious mix of texture every forkful.
• Chopped fresh spinach: Stirred in at the end, these leafy greens add color, freshness, and the illusion that you’re basically eating salad (ha).
• Parmesan cheese (grated): A final flourish for that salty, nutty finish—don’t be shy with it!

Variations

What I absolutely love about Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage is how effortlessly it adapts! Whether you want to lighten it up, spice it up, or cater to allergies, you’ve got plenty of options here to make this dish your own.

• Veggie-packed: Toss in roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or chopped zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Use hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing to turn up the heat.
• Lighter and dairy-free: Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or your favorite non-dairy alternative—just be sure to use an unsweetened version.
• Gluten-free option: Choose your favorite gluten-free short pasta; just watch the cook time, since it may vary from regular orecchiette.

How to Make Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage

Step 1: Brown the Sausage and Onion

Grab a large skillet or Dutch oven and set it over medium-high heat. Crumble in the sausage and scatter the diced onion around it. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and the onion is soft—about 4 to 5 minutes. This is where all the flavor magic begins, as those savory juices mingle together!

Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Stir in the minced garlic, salt, and Italian seasoning. Let it sizzle for about one minute until your kitchen smells absolutely irresistible. This quick sauté helps “wake up” your spices and infuse every bite with Italian warmth.

Step 3: Simmer with Broth and Cream

Pour in the chicken broth and use your spoon to scrape up any brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pan—there’s so much flavor there! Add the heavy cream and bring everything to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat. This is the moment your sauce starts taking shape.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta Right in the Sauce

Tumble in the uncooked orecchiette pasta, give it a good stir, then cover and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it cook, stirring a few times to prevent sticking, until the pasta is just al dente and the sauce is creamy (roughly 10–15 minutes). Don’t wander too far—you want the sauce thick, but not dry!

Step 5: Stir in Spinach and Parm, Then Serve

Right at the end, add your chopped spinach and parmesan. Stir until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. That’s all—just scoop, serve, and wait for the oohs and aahs around the table!

How to Serve Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage

Garnishes

A generous flurry of freshly grated parmesan and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper transform this pasta from rustic to restaurant-level. If you want to get extra fancy, add ribbons of fresh basil or a drizzle of good olive oil right before serving for a fragrant, glossy finish.

Side Dishes

This dish makes a complete meal, but for special occasions, pair Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage with garlic bread, a crisp arugula salad, or even roasted broccoli for a little green crunch. Keep things simple so the pasta remains the star.

Creative Ways to Present

For cozy family dinners, serve straight from the skillet at the table with kitchen tongs—family style! If you’re entertaining, spoon individual portions into shallow bowls and top with big curls of parmesan or a tiny mound of microgreens for a chic touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftovers cool completely, then store your Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll keep beautifully for up to three days, making it perfect for meal prep or a next-day lunch treat.

Freezing

You can freeze this pasta, but keep in mind cream sauces can change texture once thawed. For best results, freeze in portions and thaw slowly in the fridge overnight, knowing the sauce might be a little less silky (still delicious!).

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce and gently warm the pasta in a covered skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. The microwave works in a pinch, but stovetop keeps the texture nice and the flavors vibrant.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Now you’re ready to bring hearty, Italian-inspired comfort food into your own kitchen—Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage is as simple and satisfying as it gets! Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special Sunday supper, this one-pot beauty always hits the spot. Gather your loved ones, pour a glass of wine, and dig in—you might just find yourself making it again (and again!).

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