Orecchiette With Sausage And Spinach Recipe

Orecchiette with Sausage and Spinach is the perfect combination of comfort and sophistication. With its tender pasta, savory sausage, and fresh spinach tossed in a light, flavorful sauce, this dish feels both hearty and refreshing. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying.

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I discovered this recipe when I was craving something filling yet light enough for a weeknight dinner. The unique shape of orecchiette, which means “little ears” in Italian, perfectly holds the juicy bits of sausage and tender spinach leaves, ensuring every bite is full of flavor. Ready to try this irresistible pasta dish? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Orecchiette with Sausage and Spinach

Get ready to add this dish to your regular meal rotation! Here’s why:

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of savory sausage, garlic, and spinach creates a rich, satisfying taste that’s hard to beat.
• Balanced and Nutritious: With protein-packed sausage, nutrient-dense spinach, and hearty pasta, this meal is as wholesome as it is delicious.
• One-Pan Simplicity: Minimal cleanup is required, as everything comes together in one skillet.
• Customizable: Swap the sausage, add different veggies, or experiment with your favorite pasta shape—the possibilities are endless!

Ingredients Notes

The ingredients for Orecchiette with Sausage and Spinach are simple yet pack a punch. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Orecchiette Pasta: These little cup-shaped pastas are ideal for holding the sauce and bits of sausage. If unavailable, small shells or cavatelli make great substitutes.
• Italian Sausage: Use sweet, spicy, or mild sausage depending on your preference. You can also opt for turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version.
• Fresh Spinach: Adds a vibrant color and a burst of freshness to the dish. Baby spinach works best, but regular spinach can also be chopped and used.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the sausage beautifully.
• Olive Oil: Helps sauté the sausage and garlic while adding a subtle richness to the dish.
• Chicken Broth: Forms the base of the light sauce, keeping the dish moist and flavorful. Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.
• Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan ties the flavors together with its nutty, salty kick.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but highly recommended for a touch of heat.

How to Make Orecchiette with Sausage and Spinach

This recipe comes together quickly and easily. Let me guide you through the process step-by-step:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orecchiette until al dente, according to the package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Cook the Sausage: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove the sausage from its casing (if needed) and crumble it into the skillet. Cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking it into small pieces, until browned and fully cooked.
3. Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
4. Deglaze with Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the broth simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly and deepen the flavor.
5. Add the Spinach: Toss in the spinach, stirring until it wilts and combines with the sausage mixture. This should only take about 1-2 minutes.
6. Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is coated in the sauce. Adjust the consistency by adding more pasta water as needed.
7. Finish with Parmesan: Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss again and serve immediately.

Storage Options

Orecchiette with Sausage and Spinach is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored and reheated for later:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: While pasta dishes don’t freeze as well due to potential texture changes, you can freeze portions for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to make it your own!

• Add Veggies: Incorporate roasted cherry tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli for extra flavor and texture.
• Swap the Sausage: Try ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based sausage for a different twist.
• Make It Spicy: Opt for hot Italian sausage or add more red pepper flakes to turn up the heat.
• Use Different Greens: Kale, arugula, or Swiss chard can replace spinach for a heartier green option.
• Experiment with Cheese: Pecorino Romano is a tangy alternative to Parmesan, or add a dollop of ricotta for a creamy finish.

Final Thoughts

Orecchiette with Sausage and Spinach is a delightful dish that proves simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try tonight—you’ll be amazed at how something so easy can taste so incredible!

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