Orecchiette With Sausage And Spinach Recipe

There’s nothing like a bowl of Orecchiette with Sausage and Spinach to warm your soul and fill your belly. The tender pasta, savory sausage, and fresh spinach come together in a dish that’s both hearty and comforting, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe during a trip to Italy, where I learned that "orecchiette" means "little ears" in Italian, named for the pasta’s shape. Over time, this has become a family staple, loved for its quick prep and unbeatable flavors. Let’s dive in and see why this dish is destined to be your new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Orecchiette With Sausage And Spinach

Get ready to fall head over heels for this simple yet flavorful pasta dish. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, there’s so much to love about Orecchiette with Sausage and Spinach.

First, this recipe is incredibly quick and easy to prepare. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a meal that tastes like it came straight from a trattoria, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

The flavor combination is another standout feature. The savory sausage pairs beautifully with the earthy spinach and the al dente orecchiette, all coated in a luscious, garlic-infused sauce.

Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder – no need for endless dishes. With minimal cleanup, you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing pots and pans.

Lastly, this dish is incredibly versatile. Swap in different greens, adjust the spice level, or make it vegetarian – the options are endless!

Ready to see what makes this dish so special? Let’s look at the ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Orecchiette with Sausage and Spinach lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

• Orecchiette Pasta: These "little ears" are perfect for catching bits of sausage and sauce. While other shapes like rigatoni or shells could work, orecchiette offers the best texture and balance for this recipe.
• Italian Sausage: Opt for mild or spicy, depending on your preference. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or chicken sausage works beautifully while still delivering that savory punch.
• Spinach: Fresh spinach is ideal, but frozen works in a pinch. You can also substitute kale or arugula for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Garlic: Minced fresh garlic brings a warm, aromatic depth to the dish. Don’t skimp – it’s essential!
• Chicken Broth: This creates a light, flavorful sauce that ties everything together. For a creamier version, you can use half chicken broth and half heavy cream.
• Olive Oil and Parmesan Cheese: A drizzle of quality olive oil and freshly grated Parmesan take this dish to the next level.

Special Equipment: A large skillet or sauté pan is key for cooking the sausage and combining the ingredients. Make sure it’s big enough to hold everything comfortably!

How to Make This Orecchiette With Sausage And Spinach

Creating this delightful pasta dish is straightforward and satisfying. Let’s walk through the steps:

Start by cooking the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water. Follow the package instructions for al dente doneness – typically about 9-11 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

While the pasta cooks, brown the sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it into small crumbles as it cooks, ensuring an even, golden color. Once cooked through, remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside.

In the same skillet, sauté garlic in olive oil until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn it – you’re aiming for a soft, golden hue.

Next, add the spinach to the skillet. Toss it gently until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes. If using frozen spinach, make sure it’s thawed and well-drained before adding.

Return the sausage to the skillet and pour in the chicken broth. Let everything simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors. If the mixture looks dry, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Finally, toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, mixing thoroughly to coat each piece. Top with Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

In just half an hour, you’ll have a meal that’s as satisfying as it is stunning!

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this dish stores beautifully:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s fully cooled before refrigerating to preserve texture and flavor.
• Freeze: While pasta dishes can sometimes lose their texture when frozen, this one holds up well. Place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: For best results, reheat in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent dryness. Microwaving works too but may slightly alter the texture.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable, making it perfect for experimenting:

• Vegetarian: Swap the sausage for plant-based alternatives or sautéed mushrooms for a meaty texture.
• Greens: Substitute the spinach with kale, Swiss chard, or even broccoli rabe for a more robust flavor.
• Spice Level: Use hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
• Cheese Lovers: Stir in a dollop of ricotta or mascarpone for a creamier finish.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free orecchiette or another small pasta shape.

No matter how you make it, this dish is sure to impress!

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re craving comfort food or need a quick meal solution, Orecchiette with Sausage and Spinach checks all the boxes. Its simplicity, versatility, and deliciousness make it a must-have recipe in any home cook’s arsenal.

So grab your skillet and get ready to enjoy a little taste of Italy – right in your own kitchen. Bon appétit!

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