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Creamy Italian Sausage and Broccoli Orecchiette Pasta Recipe

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4.1 from 3 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Description

This creamy and comforting Orecchiette Pasta features flavorful Italian sausage, tender broccoli, and a rich Parmesan cheese finish. Cooked all in one saucepan, this easy 30-minute meal delivers hearty, cheesy flavors with a perfect balance of veggies and protein, ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Protein and Vegetables

  • 1 pound ground Italian sausage
  • 1/2 cup onion, chopped
  • 2-3 cups chopped broccoli

Seasonings

  • 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Liquids and Dairy

  • 32 ounces chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream, at room temperature
  • 1/4-1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Pasta

  • 16 ounces dry orecchiette pasta

Instructions

  1. Cook sausage and onion: In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, cook 1 pound of ground Italian sausage and 1/2 cup chopped onion for 4-5 minutes until the sausage is browned and crumbled and the onion is softened.
  2. Add spices: Stir in 2 teaspoons minced garlic, 3/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Cook for an additional minute to release the flavors.
  3. Add liquids and simmer: Pour in 32 ounces of chicken broth and 1/4 cup of heavy cream, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.
  4. Add pasta and cook: Stir in 16 ounces of dry orecchiette pasta, cover the saucepan, and cook on medium heat for 10 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the liquid and become tender.
  5. Add broccoli and continue cooking: Stir in 2 cups of chopped broccoli, re-cover the saucepan, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
  6. Finish with Parmesan cheese: Mix in 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. If there is excess liquid remaining, simmer uncovered for 1-2 minutes until the liquid reduces to your desired consistency.

Notes

  • Use room temperature heavy cream to prevent curdling when added to the hot broth.
  • Adjust the amount of broccoli according to preference or substitute with other vegetables like spinach or kale.
  • For a spicier kick, use spicy Italian sausage instead of mild.
  • You can add more Parmesan cheese on top when serving for extra cheesiness.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered longer to reduce the liquid.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://sarabaking.com/creamy-italian-sausage-and-broccoli-orecchiette-pasta-recipe/