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There is something utterly comforting and soul-satisfying about a bowl of pasta that comes together quickly and packs a punch in flavor, texture, and color. This Easy Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage Recipe does just that, combining tender little ear-shaped pasta with savory Italian sausage, a touch of creaminess, and the fresh vibrance of spinach. It’s the kind of recipe that feels homey enough for weeknight meals yet special enough to share with friends and family, proving that impressive Italian cooking doesn’t have to be complicated.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Easy Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage Recipe is surprisingly simple, yet each one plays a critical role in building its delicious character. From the chewy orecchiette that perfectly hold the sauce to the savory sausage and fresh greens, these ingredients come together for a meal that is balanced in taste and texture.
- 12 oz orecchiette pasta: The “little ears” shape is perfect for soaking up sauce and holding bits of sausage and spinach.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a smooth base for cooking and brings out the rich flavors of the sausage and garlic.
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed): Provides a hearty, flavorful protein that’s essential for the dish’s bold taste.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the pasta with aromatic warmth and depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds just the right amount of heat to balance the creaminess.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Lightens the sauce while adding savory notes.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates a luscious, velvety sauce that clings to the pasta and sausage.
- 3 cups baby spinach (roughly chopped): Adds a fresh pop of green and subtle earthiness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving): Brings a nutty, salty finish that ties all the flavors together.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to elevate every bite.
How to Make Easy Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Orecchiette Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the orecchiette pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture — tender but still with a slight bite. Before draining, save about a half cup of the pasta water; this starchy liquid will help loosen the sauce and bring the whole dish together beautifully.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
While your pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Let it brown and develop those amazing caramelized edges, stirring occasionally until it’s cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. This step is where much of the dish’s bold flavor develops, so don’t rush it!
Step 3: Add Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes
Once the sausage is nicely browned, stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Let the garlic cook for about a minute until fragrant. This quick step layers aromatic warmth and just a hint of spice, bringing extra life to the savory sausage base.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine everything smoothly. Allow this mixture to simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes. This process thickens the sauce slightly and lets the flavors intermingle, creating the silky texture that makes this recipe so delightful.
Step 5: Combine Pasta, Spinach, and Cheese
Add the drained orecchiette into the skillet along with the roughly chopped baby spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together, using reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce until it perfectly coats each piece of pasta. Watch as the spinach wilts beautifully, turning the dish vibrant and fresh. Season with salt and black pepper to your liking — this final touch balances the whole dish.
How to Serve Easy Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your plate, sprinkle extra grated Parmesan cheese right before serving. For a pop of freshness, scatter some torn fresh basil or parsley on top. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the richness, making every bite sing.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with a zesty vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Garlic bread or a rustic loaf warm from the oven are excellent additions if you love dipping into the sumptuous sauce left on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, divide the pasta into individual shallow bowls and garnish each with a basil leaf and a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for crunch. You can also serve the sausage mixture over roasted vegetables or alongside a simple antipasto spread to turn the meal into a memorable Italian feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The pasta will absorb more sauce over time, which means reheating with a splash of broth or cream helps restore that fresh, creamy texture.
Freezing
Freezing this pasta is possible but not ideal because the cream sauce can separate. If you must freeze, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and reheat gently while stirring frequently to maintain the consistency.
Reheating
Reheat the pasta over low heat on the stove, adding a little chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through and creamy again.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage is classic here, you can swap it with spicy chorizo, sweet sausage, or even turkey sausage depending on your preference. Just adjust the seasoning as needed since flavors will vary.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage alternatives or hearty mushrooms sautéed until golden. You might also want to use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth to keep the flavor profile balanced.
Can I substitute heavy cream with a lighter option?
Definitely. If you want a lighter dish, half-and-half or whole milk can work, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich and thick. You may need to reduce it a bit more to achieve the desired creaminess.
How do I know when the pasta is al dente?
Al dente means the pasta is cooked through but still firm when bitten. Start tasting the pasta a minute or two before the package’s recommended time. When you bite into it, it should be tender with just a slight resistance in the center.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance for busy weeknights?
Yes! You can cook and brown the sausage ahead of time and store it refrigerated. When ready to serve, make the sauce and cook the pasta fresh, then combine all components quickly for a speedy dinner.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like the cozy, mouthwatering experience of this Easy Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage Recipe. It’s approachable enough to whip up any night of the week, yet delicious enough to impress guests. I encourage you to dive in, make it your own, and enjoy a truly satisfying Italian meal that brings warmth and comfort to your table every time.
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Easy Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This easy orecchiette pasta with sausage is a delicious and hearty Italian main course that combines tender pasta with flavorful Italian sausage, garlic, spinach, and a creamy Parmesan sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz orecchiette pasta
Sausage & Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Sauce & Greens
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 cups baby spinach (roughly chopped)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orecchiette according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Brown the sausage: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.
- Sauté aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Prepare the sauce: Add the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, and reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce. Stir until the spinach is wilted and the sauce coats the pasta evenly.
- Season and serve: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve the pasta hot with additional Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top.
Notes
- You can substitute kale or arugula for spinach if desired.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Spicy Italian sausage adds a kick, but mild sausage works well too.
