If you’re craving a dish that combines rustic charm with vibrant flavors, you’ve got to try this Easy Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage and Spinach Recipe. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate—hearty, satisfying, and bursting with simple ingredients that come together to create something truly special. From the tender orecchiette pasta that perfectly cradles every morsel of savory Italian sausage and garlicky spinach, to the subtle kick of red pepper flakes and the richness of Parmesan, this recipe hits all the right notes for an effortless weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend feast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each playing a unique role in making this dish flavorful and balanced. Freshness is key, and the combination of herbs and cheese brings that authentic Italian feel right to your kitchen.
- 12 oz orecchiette pasta: The little “ears” that hold sauce beautifully, giving you a wonderful texture in every bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a smooth base to sauté the sausage and garlic, enhancing the depth of flavor.
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed): Provides a savory, meaty richness that’s the star of the dish.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and a hint of boldness.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Just enough heat to keep things lively without overpowering the other ingredients.
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth: Used to deglaze and lift all those delicious browned bits from the pan for extra flavor.
- 5 cups fresh baby spinach: Adds a lovely pop of green and wholesome nutrition, wilting gently into the sauce.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty finish that ties everything together.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that elevate all the flavors harmoniously.
How to Make Easy Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage and Spinach Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Toss in the orecchiette pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente—tender but with a small bite that holds up well in the sauce. Before draining, make sure to reserve about half a cup of that starchy pasta water; this little trick will help create a silky sauce later on.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
While the pasta is bubbling away, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Cook until the sausage is nicely browned and thoroughly cooked through—about 5 to 7 minutes. This caramelization step adds so much savory depth and is worth every second.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes
Next, stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Let them cook together for about one minute, stirring constantly to make sure the garlic becomes fragrant but doesn’t burn. This step brings out the aromatic spices that will subtly infuse the whole dish.
Step 4: Deglaze the Pan
Pour in the white wine or chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits stuck to the pan’s bottom. These bits are flavor gold, releasing rich umami into the liquid. Let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate those lovely flavors.
Step 5: Wilt the Spinach
Add the fresh baby spinach to the skillet, stirring until it wilts just right in 2 minutes or so. The vibrant green color and tender texture contrast beautifully with the sausage and pasta, adding freshness and balance.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the drained orecchiette to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water. Toss gently but thoroughly so every pasta “ear” gets coated in the luscious sausage-spinach mixture.
Step 7: Finish with Parmesan and Seasoning
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and give the dish a final toss. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper to suit your preference. At this point, your Easy Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage and Spinach Recipe is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Easy Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage and Spinach Recipe
Garnishes
To add even more flavor and a beautiful presentation, sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese and a few extra red pepper flakes on top. Freshly chopped parsley or basil also works magic, adding a burst of green freshness and an inviting aroma.
Side Dishes
This pasta dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette or a simple garlic bread on the side for soaking up any remaining sauce. Roasted vegetables, like asparagus or cherry tomatoes, are also excellent partners to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, you can serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls or rustic wooden plates to showcase the orecchiette’s charming shape and sauces. Alternatively, garnish with edible flowers or a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil to elevate your presentation to restaurant-worthy status.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from this Easy Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage and Spinach Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors tend to meld together nicely overnight, making for a delicious next-day meal.
Freezing
You can freeze this pasta, but keep in mind that the texture of the spinach and pasta might soften slightly upon thawing. To minimize texture changes, freeze in portion-sized containers and consume within 2 months for the best quality.
Reheating
When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, use a microwave and stir halfway through to ensure even warming without drying out the dish.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orecchiette?
Absolutely! While orecchiette is ideal for holding the sauce, you can substitute with other small shape pastas like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli if needed.
Is it necessary to use white wine in the recipe?
No, you can easily swap the white wine for chicken broth to keep the dish alcohol-free, and it will still taste delicious and rich.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian alternative that keeps the savory depth intact.
How spicy is this Easy Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage and Spinach Recipe?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that wakes up the flavors without making the dish overly spicy, but you can always adjust the amount to suit your taste.
What can I add for extra creaminess?
For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of ricotta cheese just before serving—it’s a comforting addition without overshadowing the other ingredients.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Easy Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage and Spinach Recipe a try. It’s one of those dishes that feels effortlessly impressive yet is incredibly straightforward to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this pasta brings warmth and bold flavors that never disappoint. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Easy Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage and Spinach Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Easy Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage is a flavorful Italian main course featuring tender ear-shaped pasta, savory Italian sausage, fresh spinach, and a hint of spice from red pepper flakes. Cooked entirely on the stovetop, it combines protein, greens, and a touch of Parmesan for a satisfying, quick, and comforting meal perfect for weeknights.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz orecchiette pasta
Protein and Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Liquids and Greens
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 5 cups fresh baby spinach
Finishing Touches
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the orecchiette pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Brown the Sausage: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet with the sausage. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to release the flavors without burning the garlic.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine or chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Wilt the Spinach: Add the fresh baby spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally so it evenly cooks.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked orecchiette and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss everything together to combine the pasta with the sausage, spinach, and flavorful sauce.
- Finish with Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve Immediately: Dish out the pasta warm for a delicious and comforting Italian meal.
Notes
- You can substitute kale or arugula in place of fresh baby spinach for a different flavor profile.
- For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of ricotta cheese before serving.
- Use gluten-free orecchiette pasta to make this recipe gluten-free if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
