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Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage

Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage
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Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage is a quick and flavorful weeknight meal that combines the unique texture of orecchiette pasta with savory Italian sausage, fresh garlic, juicy cherry tomatoes, and tender baby spinach. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish balances bold comfort flavors with simple ingredients and is perfect for busy dinners or meal prepping.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 8 oz orecchiette pasta
  • 12 oz Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed if using links)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cups baby spinach
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings

  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. 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, about 9 to 11 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving one cup of pasta water, and set aside.
  2. Brown the sausage: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Crumble the Italian sausage into the skillet and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking into smaller pieces until browned and cooked through.
  3. Sauté garlic and tomatoes: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with sausage and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices.
  4. Combine pasta and greens: Stir the cooked pasta into the sausage and tomato mixture. Add the baby spinach and toss gently until wilted. Add reserved pasta water gradually if the mixture seems too dry, to achieve desired sauciness.
  5. Season and serve: Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Finish with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Notes

  • Use quality Italian sausage for the best flavor, preferably made with pork or chicken and seasoned with herbs.
  • Do not overcook the pasta; al dente texture ensures the perfect chew and sauce holding.
  • Reserve pasta water to help bind the sauce and keep the dish moist.
  • Deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine or broth after cooking sausage and garlic to add extra depth of flavor.
  • Add fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme before serving to brighten the dish.

Nutrition

Keywords: orecchiette pasta, sausage pasta, quick pasta recipe, Italian sausage, weeknight dinner, easy pasta dish, comfort food

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/orecchiette-pasta-with-sausage/