Easy Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage Recipe

If you’re craving something hearty, comforting, and bursting with flavor, this easy Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage recipe is just what you need. Combining the unique shape of orecchiette pasta with savory Italian sausage and simple, fresh ingredients, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. It’s quick to prepare yet delivers rich, satisfying flavors that everyone will love. Ready to dive into a bowl of satisfying goodness? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A perfect weeknight meal: Ready in under 30 minutes, making dinner stress-free and quick.
• Rustic yet refined flavors: The savory sausage and tender pasta blend perfectly with subtle hints of garlic and herbs.
• Minimal ingredients, maximum taste: Simple pantry staples come together to create an impressive dish.
• Versatile and customizable: Easy to tweak with vegetables, spice levels, or cheese preferences.
• A family favorite: Appeals to both kids and adults, satisfying every appetite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage recipe relies on a handful of essential ingredients that build layers of flavor, texture, and color. Each item plays a key role in making the dish delicious and balanced without complicating the process.

• Orecchiette pasta: Known as “little ears,” this pasta shape holds sauce beautifully and adds a pleasant chew.
• Italian sausage: Choose sweet or spicy for your flavor preference to bring rich, meaty depth.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves give the dish a bright, aromatic kick.
• Olive oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds smoothness and richness.
• Red pepper flakes: Just a pinch to bring a subtle warmth and depth without overpowering.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for topping, adding a nutty, salty finish.
• Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal notes to balance the flavors.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to taste that tie all ingredients together.
• Optional: Cherry tomatoes or spinach: For added color, nutrition, and freshness.

Variations for Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage

One of the best things about this Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage recipe is how easy it is to customize. Whether you’re looking to add a favorite ingredient or accommodate dietary preferences, these variation ideas can help you make the recipe your own.

• Swap the sausage: Use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option, or plant-based sausage for a vegetarian twist.
• Add vegetables: Toss in sautéed bell peppers, kale, or zucchini to boost nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for more heat.
• Cheese variations: Try Pecorino Romano or Asiago instead of Parmesan for a unique flavor.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or mascarpone towards the end for a luscious texture.

How to Make Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage

Step 1: Prepare the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orecchiette pasta according to package instructions, usually about 9 to 11 minutes until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about half a cup of the pasta water to use later for the sauce.

Step 2: Cook the sausage

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove the sausage from its casing and crumble it into the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through, stirring occasionally to break it apart evenly.

Step 3: Sauté the garlic and seasoning

Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the pan with the sausage. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not burnt, stirring constantly to blend the flavors.

Step 4: Combine pasta and sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sausage mixture. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you achieve a light sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.

Step 5: Finish with herbs and cheese

Stir in chopped fresh parsley and a generous handful of grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything one last toss and remove from heat.

Pro Tips for Making Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage

• Choosing the right sausage: Opt for high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor and avoid overly fatty varieties.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente texture lets the orecchiette hold up well without getting mushy when mixed with the sauce.
• Use reserved pasta water: Adding pasta water helps create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta perfectly.
• Fresh ingredients matter: Fresh garlic and parsley dramatically elevate the freshness of this simple dish.
• Adjust spice gradually: Start with a small pinch of red pepper flakes; you can always add more for extra heat.

How to Serve Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage

Garnishes

Top your plate with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add brightness and a slight crunch to every bite.

Side Dishes

Pair the pasta with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the pasta in rustic bowls with crusty bread on the side for dipping, or plate it elegantly with a drizzle of good olive oil and a few whole sausage crumbles on top.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days, ensuring the flavors remain fresh and vibrant.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, but it’s best to do so without adding fresh herbs or cheese. Freeze in portioned containers and use within 2 months for optimal taste.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, while orecchiette is traditional, you can substitute with other short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or cavatappi if needed.

Is this recipe spicy?

The spice level depends on the sausage you choose and the amount of red pepper flakes; you can easily adjust it to your taste.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms and add extra herbs to retain flavor complexity.

How do I store leftover pasta to avoid it becoming mushy?

Cool the pasta quickly and store it without sauce or with only a small amount; reheat with moisture added to avoid mushiness.

What cheese works best in this dish?

Parmesan is classic, but Pecorino Romano or Asiago also add great flavor and can be used interchangeably.

Final Thoughts

This easy Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage recipe is one of those dishes you’ll want to keep coming back to because of its comforting taste, straightforward preparation, and endless opportunities for tweaking. Whether you’re feeding the family or enjoying a cozy solo dinner, it’s sure to deliver hearty satisfaction with every bite. Give it a try tonight and savor the simple pleasures of homemade Italian-inspired cooking!

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