Name: Orecchiette Pasta with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 7
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 14 oz Italian chicken sausage; 12 oz orecchiette pasta; 16 oz fresh broccoli florets; 5 cloves garlic; ¼ cup grated Pecorino Romano; 2 tbsp olive oil; kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper

This orecchiette pasta with chicken sausage and broccoli recipe is a delightful mix of healthy ingredients and savory flavors. It combines the spiciness of Italian chicken sausage with the crunchiness of fresh broccoli and the comforting familiarity of orecchiette pasta, all mingled in a garlic-infused olive oil sauce. It's a dish that's as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Photos of Orecchiette Pasta with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Recipe

The ingredients for this recipe are fairly common, but there are a few things to watch out for when you're shopping. Look for Italian chicken sausage, which has a unique flavor that's crucial to this dish. If you're not able to find orecchiette pasta, you can also use shell pasta as a substitute.

Orecchiette Pasta with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Ingredients

Italian chicken sausage: This is a leaner alternative to traditional pork sausage, offering a slightly spicier flavor that goes well with the other ingredients in this recipe.

Orecchiette pasta: These 'little ear' pastas are perfect for holding onto the flavorful sauce. If you can't find them, substitute with another small pasta shape.

Fresh broccoli florets: They add a nice crunch and a dose of healthy greens to the dish.

Garlic: An essential flavor base for the sauce, it adds a savory touch.

Grated pecorino romano: This hard, salty Italian cheese adds a depth of flavor to the pasta. You can also substitute with parmesan.

Olive oil: Used to sauté the garlic and mix with the pasta, it adds a hint of richness to the dish.

Kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper: To enhance and balance the flavors of the dish.

One reader, Beatrice Jansen says:

This orecchiette pasta with chicken sausage and broccoli recipe is a game-changer! The flavors blend perfectly, and the dish is so satisfying. The combination of the savory sausage and tender broccoli is simply divine. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a hearty, delicious meal.

Beatrice Jansen

Cooking Techniques Required for This Pasta Dish

How to brown the sausage: Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and cook the Italian chicken sausage for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks with a wooden spoon until browned.

How to cook the pasta and broccoli: Add the orecchiette pasta to a large pot of boiling salted water and cook according to package instructions for al dente. Add the broccoli to the boiling water with the pasta and cook until both are tender.

How to reserve pasta water: Before draining the pasta and broccoli, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water and set it aside for later use.

How to mix the pasta and sausage: After cooking the garlic in olive oil, add the cooked pasta and sausage to the pot, then mix well. Add the remaining olive oil, grated cheese, salt, and pepper to taste, mixing well and smashing any large pieces of broccoli to break up.

How to adjust the pasta consistency: Add ½ cup of the reserved pasta water to the pasta and mix well, adding more if needed to achieve the desired consistency.

How To Make Broccoli Chicken Sausage Orecchiette Pasta

This Broccoli Chicken Sausage Orecchiette Pasta is a surely delicious and savory dish made with Italian chicken sausage, broccoli, parmesan, and more!

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

14ozItalian chicken sausage,(1 package) casing removed
12ozorecchiette pasta,uncooked, or gluten-free pasta
16ozfresh broccoli florets,(6½ cups) no stems
5clovesgarlic,smashed, chopped
¼: 5px; letter-spacing: 2px”>2tbspolive oil,divided
kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Meanwhile, heat a large nonstick skillet and brown the sausage over medium-high for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks with a wooden spoon until browned.
Remove from heat.
When the water boils, add the pasta and bring it back to a boil.
When the water is boiling, add broccoli and cook according to pasta instructions for al dente.
When pasta is almost done cooking, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water and set aside.
Drain the pasta and the broccoli.
Return the pot to the stove and set the heat to high. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and when hot, add the garlic.
Cook for about 1 minute until golden. Reduce the flame to low and add the pasta back to the pot with the sausage.
Mix well, add remaining olive oil, grated cheese, salt, and pepper to taste, mixing well and smashing any large pieces of broccoli to break up.
Add ½ cup of the reserved pasta water and mix well, adding more if needed.
Serve in pasta bowls with additional grated cheese on the side, if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 381.78kcal
Fat: 15.30g
Saturated Fat: 3.70g
Trans Fat: 0.08g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.65g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.02g
Carbohydrates: 42.46g
Fiber: 1.96g
Sugar: 1.66g
Protein: 18.75g
Cholesterol: 59.33mg
Sodium: 517.16mg
Calcium: 139.75mg
Potassium: 453.40mg
Iron: 2.01mg
Vitamin A: 101.87µg
Vitamin C: 61.06mg

Helpful Technique for Cooking Orecchiette Pasta Perfectly

When cooking the orecchiette pasta and broccoli together, it's important to time it correctly. The pasta should be added first, as it typically takes longer to cook. The broccoli should be added towards the end of the pasta's cooking time to ensure it doesn't become overly soft and lose its vibrant green color. If you're unsure of the timing, you can always test a piece of broccoli and a piece of pasta to see if they're cooked to your liking. Remember, the goal is to achieve an al dente texture for both the pasta and the broccoli.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Orecchiette Pasta With Chicken Sausage and Broccoli

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonder: Opt for recipes that require minimal cleanup, such as this orecchiette pasta with chicken sausage and broccoli dish.

Multitask: While the pasta is cooking, use that time to prepare the other components of the dish to save time.

Quick cook: Choose ingredients that cook quickly, like chicken sausage, to expedite the overall cooking process.

Efficient tools: Utilize kitchen tools like a sharp chef's knife and a large skillet to efficiently prepare and cook the dish.

Flavor shortcuts: Incorporate pre-made seasonings or sauces to add flavor without spending extra time on preparation.

Substitute Ingredients For Orecchiette Pasta with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Recipe

Italian chicken sausage - Substitute with turkey sausage: Turkey sausage is a leaner alternative to chicken sausage and will provide a similar flavor and texture to the dish.
Orecchiette pasta - Substitute with farfalle pasta: Farfalle pasta has a similar shape and texture to orecchiette and will work well with the other ingredients in the recipe.
Fresh broccoli florets - Substitute with cauliflower florets: Cauliflower has a similar texture to broccoli and will absorb the flavors of the dish while providing a different twist to the recipe.
Garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can provide a milder, sweeter flavor compared to garlic, adding a different dimension to the dish.
Pecorino Romano - Substitute with Parmigiano-Reggiano: Parmigiano-Reggiano has a similar sharp and nutty flavor to Pecorino Romano and can be used as a substitute in this recipe.
Olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.

Best Way to Present Orecchiette Pasta With Chicken Sausage and Broccoli

Elevate the plating: Arrange the orecchiette pasta with chicken sausage and broccoli in a visually appealing manner, ensuring that each component is showcased beautifully on the plate.
Incorporate color contrast: Utilize the vibrant green of the broccoli and the rich hues of the sausage to create a visually striking and appetizing presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley or basil to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the overall presentation.
Consider the plate shape and size: Choose a plate that complements the dish, allowing the orecchiette, sausage, and broccoli to be the focal point while still providing an elegant backdrop.
Use high-quality serving utensils: Select elegant and polished serving utensils to elevate the dining experience and showcase attention to detail.
Emphasize balance and symmetry: Arrange the components of the dish in a balanced and symmetrical manner, creating a visually pleasing and harmonious presentation.
Highlight the textures: Showcase the different textures of the dish by arranging the orecchiette, sausage, and broccoli in a way that emphasizes their individual characteristics.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Recipe

Large pot: A large pot is essential for boiling the pasta and broccoli.
Nonstick skillet: A nonstick skillet is used for browning the chicken sausage.
Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is used for breaking up the sausage as it cooks.
Colander: A colander is used for draining the pasta and broccoli after cooking.
Grater: A grater is used for grating the pecorino romano cheese.
Pasta pot: A pasta pot is used for boiling the orecchiette pasta.
Pasta bowls: Pasta bowls are used for serving the finished dish.
Cheese grater: A cheese grater is used for grating additional cheese for serving, if desired.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Orecchiette Pasta With Chicken Sausage and Broccoli

Let the orecchiette pasta with chicken sausage and broccoli cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled pasta dish to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
If you plan to freeze the pasta:
- Divide the cooled dish into individual serving portions and place them in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
- Squeeze out any excess air from the bags to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Frozen orecchiette pasta with chicken sausage and broccoli will maintain its best quality for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat the refrigerated pasta, simply microwave individual portions until heated through, or warm the entire dish in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water or olive oil if needed to prevent dryness.
For frozen pasta, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Alternatively, you can reheat it directly from frozen by placing the frozen portion in a microwave-safe dish and microwaving on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
Keep in mind that the texture of the pasta and broccoli may change slightly after freezing and reheating, but the dish will still be delicious and satisfying.

How to Reheat Leftovers of Orecchiette Pasta With Chicken Sausage and Broccoli

Reheat the orecchiette pasta in a large pot of boiling water for 1-2 minutes until heated through. Drain the pasta and set aside. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken sausage and broccoli to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add the reheated pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot with grated pecorino romano cheese on top.
For a quick and easy reheat, place the leftover orecchiette pasta, chicken sausage, and broccoli in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through. Be careful not to overheat the pasta, as it can become mushy. Once heated, stir in a tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with grated pecorino romano cheese on top.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover orecchiette pasta, chicken sausage, and broccoli to a baking dish. Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over the top and toss everything together until well coated. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown slightly. Once heated, season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot with grated pecorino romano cheese on top.
For a stovetop reheat, place the leftover orecchiette pasta, chicken sausage, and broccoli in a large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to the skillet and cover with a lid. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the pasta seems dry, add more liquid as needed. Once heated, stir in a tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with grated pecorino romano cheese on top.

Is Making This Pasta Dish at Home Cost-Effective?

This orecchiette pasta with chicken sausage and broccoli recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as chicken sausage, orecchiette pasta, and broccoli, are reasonably priced and readily available. The dish offers a satisfying and flavorful meal for a family of four at an approximate cost of $15. The combination of protein, vegetables, and pasta makes it a well-balanced and budget-friendly option. Overall, this recipe earns a solid 9 out of 10 for its affordability, taste, and nutritional value.

Is This Pasta Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

The orecchiette pasta with chicken sausage and broccoli recipe is a relatively healthy dish, offering a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables. The Italian chicken sausage provides lean protein, while the broccoli contributes essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The recipe also includes garlic, which has potential health benefits such as boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation. However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the dish even healthier:

Using whole wheat orecchiette pasta would increase the fiber content and provide more complex carbohydrates, which can help with blood sugar control and digestion.
Reducing the amount of grated pecorino romano cheese or opting for a lower-fat alternative would decrease the overall fat and calorie content of the dish.
Adding more vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes or bell peppers, would increase the nutrient density and provide a wider range of vitamins and minerals.

To further enhance the nutritional value of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:

Incorporate a side salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette to add more fiber and nutrients to the meal.
Use a smaller portion of pasta and increase the amount of broccoli and other vegetables to create a more balanced ratio of carbohydrates to vegetables.
Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as red pepper flakes or fresh basil, to add flavor without relying on excessive amounts of salt or cheese.
Choose a high-quality, organic chicken sausage to ensure the best possible ingredients and minimize exposure to additives or preservatives.

Editor's Opinion on This Orecchiette Pasta Recipe

The recipe for orecchiette pasta with chicken sausage and broccoli is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of Italian chicken sausage adds a savory depth, while the broccoli provides a fresh and vibrant element. The addition of pecorino romano cheese brings a rich and salty note, tying the dish together beautifully. The cooking method ensures that the flavors meld together, creating a satisfying and comforting meal. This recipe is a wonderful choice for a quick and delicious dinner option.

Enhance Your Orecchiette Pasta with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a crispy garlic parmesan topping.

Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme: Sweet and savory carrots glazed with honey and thyme for a delicious side dish.

Grilled Pineapple with Chili Lime Glaze: Juicy pineapple slices grilled to perfection and drizzled with a spicy and tangy chili lime glaze.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: Rich and creamy risotto made with flavorful mushrooms and a hint of parmesan cheese for a comforting side dish.

Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze for a delightful side dish.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Enjoy This Pasta Dish

Creamy Tuscan Chicken: This creamy Tuscan chicken recipe is a delicious and comforting dish that features tender chicken in a creamy garlic sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. It's perfect served over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Honey Garlic Shrimp: Honey garlic shrimp is a quick and easy recipe that features succulent shrimp coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce. It's perfect served over rice or with steamed vegetables for a simple and flavorful meal.

Mango Salsa Chicken: Mango salsa chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that features juicy chicken breasts topped with a fresh and tangy mango salsa. It's a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors that's sure to impress your taste buds.

Appetizer and Dessert Suggestions for an Italian-Inspired Meal

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing large mushroom caps with a mixture of cream cheese, garlic, herbs, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a delicious start to any meal.

Bruschetta with a Twist: Put a unique spin on traditional bruschetta by topping toasted baguette slices with a flavorful combination of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, balsamic glaze, and creamy burrata cheese. This refreshing and vibrant appetizer is sure to impress your guests.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and decadent texture will satisfy any chocolate lover's cravings.

Berry Parfait: Layered with creamy yogurt, fresh berries, and crunchy granola, this berry parfait is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors. It's a light and refreshing dessert that is perfect for any time of the day.

Why trust this Orecchiette Pasta with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, featuring savory Italian chicken sausage and tender orecchiette pasta, perfectly complemented by vibrant fresh broccoli florets and aromatic garlic. The use of pecorino romano adds a rich and nutty flavor, while olive oil enhances the dish with its fruity notes. The careful balance of kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper ensures a harmonious blend of seasonings. With these high-quality ingredients, this recipe promises a satisfying and wholesome dining experience.

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FAQ:

Can I use regular pork sausage instead of chicken sausage?

Yes, you can definitely use regular pork sausage if you prefer. It will add a different flavor profile to the dish, but it will still be delicious.

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta you like. Orecchiette works well with this recipe because its shape holds the sauce and ingredients nicely, but feel free to use your favorite pasta.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Of course! You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by using plant-based sausage or omitting the sausage altogether. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for a hearty vegetarian option.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble the dish when you're ready to eat. Cook the sausage, pasta, and broccoli ahead of time and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat the components and assemble the dish.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Store the leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.