Orecchiette With Sausage And Spinach Recipe

There's nothing quite like a comforting bowl of Orecchiette with Sausage and Spinach to brighten up a busy evening. The tender pasta, savory sausage, and vibrant spinach come together in a dish that's as visually appealing as it is delicious.

I first discovered this recipe during a trip to Italy, where I fell in love with the simplicity and bold flavors of their cooking. Since then, it’s become a weeknight favorite in our home, offering a satisfying meal in under 30 minutes. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe a must-try.

Why You'll Love This Orecchiette with Sausage and Spinach

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to pasta dish. This Orecchiette with Sausage and Spinach brings together bold flavors, hearty ingredients, and unbeatable convenience.

First off, it’s incredibly quick and easy to make. With minimal prep and just one pan, this dish is ready to serve in about 25 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights when time is precious.

The flavor is out of this world. The juicy, perfectly seasoned sausage pairs beautifully with the tender pasta and garlicky spinach, creating a restaurant-quality dish you can whip up in your own kitchen.

Not to mention, it’s a one-pot wonder. Cooking the pasta and sauce together means fewer dishes to clean, making this recipe as practical as it is delicious.

Lastly, this dish is endlessly versatile. Whether you’re catering to picky eaters, adjusting to dietary needs, or using what you have on hand, it adapts beautifully with simple ingredient swaps or add-ins.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Orecchiette with Sausage and Spinach lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one contributes to the dish’s rich and satisfying flavor profile.

Orecchiette pasta is the heart of this recipe. Its unique shape, resembling small bowls, is perfect for catching bits of sausage and sauce in every bite. While you can substitute other pasta, like penne or shells, orecchiette is worth seeking out for its ideal texture and flavor.

Italian sausage adds depth and a burst of flavor. Opt for mild or spicy sausage depending on your taste preferences. Removing the casing ensures it crumbles easily into the sauce, creating the perfect bite-sized pieces.

Fresh spinach brings a touch of color and a healthy dose of nutrients. It wilts down quickly, blending seamlessly into the pasta. Baby spinach is ideal, but regular spinach works just as well with a bit of chopping.

Garlic is a must for that classic Italian aroma and flavor. Minced fresh garlic adds a subtle kick and enhances the sausage’s savory notes.

Parmesan cheese ties everything together with its salty, nutty flavor. Freshly grated Parmesan is best, but pre-grated works in a pinch.

If you have it, a large skillet or sauté pan is the only special equipment you’ll need. The wide surface area ensures even cooking and plenty of room to toss everything together.

How To Make This Orecchiette with Sausage and Spinach

Creating this delicious dish is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Let’s walk through the steps to bring it all together.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orecchiette according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining; you’ll use it to create the sauce.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Let it cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil and the minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add the spinach in batches, stirring until it wilts down completely.

Return the cooked sausage to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Stir everything together and add a splash of the reserved pasta water to create a light sauce that coats the pasta.

Finish the dish by sprinkling in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and tossing to combine. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

This entire process takes just over 20 minutes, making it an ideal recipe for weeknights or impromptu dinners.

Storage Options

If you find yourself with leftovers, this dish stores wonderfully for future meals.

Transfer any cooled leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage, place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to three months.

To reheat, add a splash of water or chicken broth to the pasta and warm it gently on the stovetop over medium heat. This prevents the dish from drying out and keeps the flavors vibrant. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Swap the sausage for ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian option.

Add a touch of heat with red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when cooking the garlic.

Experiment with other greens, like kale or arugula, for a different flavor profile.

Toss in extras like sundried tomatoes, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for added texture and taste.

For a creamy twist, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese before serving.

This Orecchiette with Sausage and Spinach recipe is a canvas for your creativity. Try new combinations and make it uniquely yours—you might just discover a new family favorite.

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