Name: Sausage Broccoli Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound short-cut pasta (such as farfalle, orecchiette, penne, or mezze rigatoni); salt; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 pound sweet or spicy italian sausage (removed from casings); 3 garlic cloves (minced); 1 – 1¼ pound broccoli florets (cut small); 1 cup chicken broth (we use 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon paste mixed with 1 cup hot water); ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (alternatively, add 1/4-1/3 cup heavy cream); 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

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Sausage Broccoli Pasta is a beautiful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner. With the hearty embrace of pasta, the savory zing from Italian sausage, and the vibrant crunch of broccoli, this dish delivers both nutrition and satisfaction in every bite. It’s not just another pasta dish; it’s a delightful medley that captures the essence of home cooking, offering comfort and joy without the fuss.

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This recipe came into my life during one of those hectic evenings when takeout seemed like the only option. However, I discovered that I could whip up something just as delicious in less time than it would take for delivery to arrive. Not only does it tick all the boxes for flavor, but it’s also easy on the wallet and requires minimal ingredients. I’m thrilled to share this one-pot wonder with you, hoping it brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Sausage Broccoli Pasta
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Sausage Broccoli Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in about 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Irresistible Flavor: A tantalizing balance of savory sausage and fresh broccoli.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes as well.
Flexible Serving: Great for dinner with friends or a cozy meal for two.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable to fit gluten-free or dairy-free diets.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 pound short-cut pasta (like farfalle, orecchiette, penne, or mezze rigatoni): Choose a pasta shape that holds the sauce well.
Salt: Essential for flavoring the pasta water, enhancing the taste of the dish.
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and a touch of fruity flavor.
1 pound sweet or spicy Italian sausage (removed from casings): The star of the show that infuses the dish with depth.
3 garlic cloves (minced): For that aromatic touch that elevates the entire dish.
1 – 1¼ pound broccoli florets (cut small): Fresh broccoli adds a crunchy texture and a beautiful pop of green.
1 cup chicken broth: Use 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon paste mixed with 1 cup hot water; it enhances flavors and adds moisture.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Just the right amount of kick to complement the sausage.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or 1/4-1/3 cup heavy cream): Adds a velvety texture that brings everything together.
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: The finishing touch that enriches the sauce beautifully.

How to Make Sausage Broccoli Pasta

Boil the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the 1 pound of short-cut pasta, cooking according to package instructions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Once done, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Cook the Sausage: While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the 1 pound of Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Garlic and Broccoli: Toss in the 3 minced garlic cloves, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the 1 – 1¼ pounds of small broccoli florets and 1 cup of chicken broth along with ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Stir to combine, covering the skillet with a lid. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the broth is mostly evaporated.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Transfer the drained pasta directly into the skillet. Turn off the heat, then add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to keep the sauce smooth and silky.
Serve: Plate your delicious Sausage Broccoli Pasta immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired. Enjoy the warm goodness!

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover Sausage Broccoli Pasta, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, place leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When reheating, pop it in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly, so adding a splash of water or broth can refresh the consistency.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Watch the pasta: Be sure to cook it al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce.
Opt for quality sausage: The better the sausage, the richer the overall flavor of your dish.
Adjust textures: If you prefer more creaminess, consider adding that 1/4-1/3 cup of heavy cream for an extra indulgent sauce.
Add some crunch: Top with toasted breadcrumbs or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor contrast.
Save pasta water: This starchy liquid is great for adjusting the sauce’s consistency and adding flavor.

Sausage Broccoli Pasta brings together wonderful flavors and textures, and I can already imagine the smiles around your table. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or add spices to make it your own. Cooking is about joy and sharing, so don’t hesitate to explore and enjoy this dish!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in turkey sausage for a leaner option or even a plant-based sausage if you’re looking for a vegetarian version. Just make sure it’s seasoned well to complement the other flavors in the dish.

What other vegetables can I add?

This recipe is quite versatile. You can easily include bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them along with the garlic for the best results!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sausage and broccoli mixture a few hours in advance, and then simply cook the pasta and combine it right before serving. This makes it an excellent choice for entertaining.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply swap out the short-cut pasta with gluten-free pasta from your favorite brand. Most gluten-free pasta will cook similarly, but keep an eye on it to prevent mushiness.

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