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
Scale
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
