Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Rabe

There’s something incredibly cozy and comforting about a bowl of pasta that’s simple yet packed with flavor and that’s exactly what you get with this Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Rabe. This is the kind of dish that makes you close your eyes and sigh with the first bite. The orecchiette (“little ears” in Italian) are the perfect shape to scoop up those juicy sausage crumbles and cling to bits of garlicky, slightly bitter broccoli rabe. Toss it all in a glossy olive oil and garlic sauce, and boom perfection.

This recipe is Italian home cooking at its best: rustic, bold, unfussy, and made for second helpings. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

Why You’ll Love Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Rabe

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Works beautifully as a weeknight meal, lunch prep, or even a casual dinner party centerpiece.

Budget-Friendly: Uses basic pantry items and just a few ingredients to create something that tastes gourmet.

Quick and Easy: You can have this on the table in about 30 minutes perfect for busy nights.

Customizable: Swap in your favorite greens, use spicy or mild sausage, or go gluten-free with a pasta alternative.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Rabe

This dish is all about balance rich sausage, bitter greens, and the perfect pasta vehicle to bring them together:

Orecchiette Pasta: These “little ears” hold just the right amount of sauce and ingredients in every bite. A pasta shape that’s truly made for this dish.

Italian Sausage: Choose mild or spicy depending on your mood. Crumbled and browned, it brings savory depth and richness.

Broccoli Rabe: Bitter and leafy, this green vegetable balances the richness of the sausage and brings loads of character.

Garlic: Infuses the whole dish with a warm, aromatic kick. Don’t skimp on it!

Red Pepper Flakes: Just a touch for heat. It lifts the flavors and gives that subtle fire.

Olive Oil: The base of our simple, glossy sauce. Use good-quality extra virgin for the best flavor.

Salt and Pepper: Essential to bring out and balance the flavors.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta. You’ll also want a large skillet ready to go on medium-high heat.

Combine Ingredients

While the water is heating, brown the Italian sausage in the skillet, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Once fully cooked and slightly crispy, remove and set aside.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel

Use the same skillet to heat olive oil. Sauté the garlic and red pepper flakes until fragrant—this is the flavor foundation.

Assemble the Dish

Boil the orecchiette until al dente. In the last 2–3 minutes of cooking, toss in the chopped broccoli rabe to blanch it perfectly.

Drain the pasta and broccoli rabe, reserving some pasta water. Add them to the skillet with the garlic oil and toss in the cooked sausage.

Cook to Perfection

Toss everything together over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen things up. Season with salt and pepper.

Finishing Touches

Let everything mingle in the pan for a minute so the flavors really come together. You can add a little extra olive oil or even a sprinkle of Parmesan if you’d like.

Serve and Enjoy

Scoop into bowls and enjoy while warm. It’s rustic, cozy, and full of flavor—just the way pasta should be.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: ~510

(Note: These values are approximate and may vary based on brands and ingredient substitutions.)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Rabe

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Crusty Italian bread or garlic knots for scooping up any leftover oil
• A glass of red wine like Chianti or Barbera
• Finish with a light dessert like panna cotta or fresh berries

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Blanching the broccoli rabe with the pasta saves time and reduces bitterness
• Don’t overcook the garlic—it should be golden, not brown
• Want it creamier? Stir in a spoonful of ricotta or mascarpone at the end
• Can’t find orecchiette? Use shells or farfalle instead
• Make it vegetarian by swapping the sausage for sautéed mushrooms

FAQ’s

1. Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes! Shells, fusilli, or farfalle all work well in place of orecchiette.

2. What if I don’t like broccoli rabe?
Spinach, kale, or even broccolini are great alternatives.

3. Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
Absolutely just slice or crumble it and warm it in the skillet with the garlic oil.

4. Is this dish spicy?
Just slightly. Adjust the red pepper flakes to your liking.

5. Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta.

6. Can I meal prep this?
It holds up well for 2–3 days in the fridge just reheat with a splash of olive oil or water.

7. What protein can I use instead of sausage?
Grilled chicken or even shrimp work beautifully here.

8. Can I freeze it?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it if needed. Reheat gently to maintain texture.

9. How do I reduce bitterness from broccoli rabe?
Make sure to blanch it briefly in boiling water it mellows the flavor.

10. Should I add cheese?
Totally up to you! A sprinkle of Parmesan or Pecorino Romano adds a salty, nutty finish.

Conclusion

Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Rabe is one of those soul-satisfying meals that feels like a big warm hug from your favorite Italian grandma even if you’ve never had one. With just the right mix of bold, savory sausage and bright, slightly bitter greens, it’s simple, rustic, and ridiculously delicious. Whether it’s your first time making it or your fiftieth, this dish will never stop being a total classic. Dig in you’re going to love it.

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