One Pot Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Recipe
This One Pot Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Recipe is the sort of easy, soul-satisfying dinner everyone needs in their weeknight rotation. Every bite brings together savory sausage, little pasta “ears” that perfectly cradle a creamy Parmesan sauce, and bright green broccoli for a dish that looks as gorgeous as it tastes. Plus, it all comes together in one pot—so you get maximum flavor with minimal cleanup and fuss. If you’re looking for a meal that wows the crowd but still keeps your evening relaxed, you’ve just found it!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Everything in this recipe is thoughtfully chosen to bring out dynamic flavors and great textures, with each ingredient playing its own special part. This is the beauty of a great one pot pasta: simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients come together for something greater than the sum of their parts!
- Orecchiette pasta: Shaped like tiny ears, these are perfect for catching bits of sausage and sauce in every bite.
- Olive oil: Gives a fruity base, helping brown the sausage and blend everything together.
- Italian sausage (casings removed): Go for mild or spicy, either way it brings hearty, robust flavor to the dish.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic wakes up the sauce and adds delicious depth.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle kick that livens up every mouthful; use more or less to your taste.
- Broccoli florets: Adds vibrant color and a gentle crunch—cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Adds loads of savory flavor and is key to creating the luscious sauce.
- Water: Helps the pasta cook just right and allows flavors to meld without the pot drying out.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into a creamy, salty cloud that clings to each piece of pasta.
- Butter: Rounds out the sauce, making it glossy and rich.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for finishing—season to taste to make all the flavors pop!
How to Make One Pot Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating the olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Keep going until the sausage is browned all over and cooked through, which should take about 6 to 8 minutes. This step is where you’ll build a ton of flavor—don’t rush it!
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Next, stir in your minced garlic and (if you like some heat) the red pepper flakes. Cook everything for about a minute, just until the garlic is fragrant and the air smells incredible. This little moment in the pan brings out the flavors that make this One Pot Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Recipe absolutely unforgettable!
Step 3: Bring in the Broccoli and Pasta
Add the broccoli florets and orecchiette pasta right into the pan. Pour in the chicken broth and water, making sure the pasta is mostly submerged. This is when the magic happens: all the ingredients begin to mingle and cook together, soaking up the flavors. Bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat and let it gently simmer, uncovered, for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir every so often so nothing sticks, and cook until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Step 4: Finish with Parmesan and Butter
Now it’s time for the finishing touches. Stir in the butter and grated Parmesan cheese until everything melts together into a creamy, silky sauce. Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed. The result? A pot full of creamy, saucy pasta loaded with savory sausage and tender broccoli—utterly irresistible!
Step 5: Serve Hot
Spoon the One Pot Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Recipe onto plates or into shallow bowls, making sure everyone gets a bit of everything. If you like, finish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan. Dive in while it’s piping hot—the flavors are at their peak!
How to Serve One Pot Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
A final flourish of grated Parmesan cheese never goes amiss, and perhaps a scattering of freshly cracked black pepper or a drizzle of good olive oil for extra gleam. If you want a bit of brightness, a squeeze of fresh lemon right before serving will elevate this One Pot Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Recipe even further.
Side Dishes
This dish is a star on its own, but a simple leafy salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette or a side of garlic bread pairs beautifully. The crisp, fresh greens and a chewy, crusty loaf will soak up any sauce left on your plate (and trust me, you won’t want to waste a drop)!
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the pasta in a big family-style platter at the table, letting everyone help themselves. Or nestle the One Pot Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Recipe in individual bowls topped with an extra shower of cheese and some lemon zest—perfect for a cozy dinner party or a casual get-together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The pasta continues to soak up flavor overnight, making the next day’s lunch even more delicious!
Freezing
You can freeze this One Pot Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Recipe, though the texture of the pasta might change slightly upon thawing. Let the dish cool completely, pack it into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce and warm it gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Stir often to keep things creamy. You can also zap individual portions in the microwave, covered, in 30-second intervals until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While orecchiette is classic and really holds the sauce well, you can use small shells, cavatelli, or even penne if that’s what you have on hand. Cooking times may vary depending on the shape, so check the pasta for doneness as it simmers.
What kind of sausage is best?
Italian sausage—either mild or spicy—works beautifully in this recipe. Pork is traditional, but chicken or turkey sausage also give delicious results if you want something lighter.
Can I make this One Pot Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply swap the sausage for your favorite plant-based alternative or even hearty mushrooms for a rich, umami flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and the rest stays the same.
Is there a way to add more vegetables?
Yes! Toss in a handful of baby spinach or chopped kale in the last few minutes of cooking. Bell peppers or zucchini diced small would also fit right in for an extra punch of color and nutrition.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
You can! Just make sure your pot is large enough so everything cooks evenly. You might need to simmer a little longer, and stirring more frequently helps prevent anything from sticking as you scale up this One Pot Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Recipe.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a meal that’s comforting, full of flavor, and perfect for sharing, this One Pot Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Recipe hits the mark every time. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite way to get dinner on the table, fuss-free and absolutely delicious.
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One Pot Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This One Pot Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli recipe is a delicious and easy weeknight dinner that combines savory Italian sausage, tender broccoli, and al dente pasta in a creamy Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a comforting meal with minimal cleanup!
Ingredients
Orecchiette Pasta:
12 ounces
Olive Oil:
1 tablespoon
Italian Sausage:
1 pound (casings removed)
Garlic Cloves:
4, minced
Red Pepper Flakes:
1 pinch (optional)
Broccoli Florets:
4 cups, small
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth:
3 cups
Water:
1 cup
Grated Parmesan Cheese:
½ cup
Butter:
2 tablespoons
Salt and Black Pepper:
To taste
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Cook Sausage: Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 6–8 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Pepper Flakes: Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in Broccoli and Pasta: Add broccoli, orecchiette, chicken broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 12–15 minutes.
- Finish the Dish: Stir in butter and Parmesan until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot.
Notes
- You can use spicy sausage for extra heat.
- Try broccoli rabe for a bitter contrast.
- Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One Pot, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1¼ cups
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
