Description
This Sausage and Broccoli Pasta is a quick and flavorful dish combining savory Italian sausage with tender broccoli florets and al dente pasta, all brought together with garlic, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan cheese for a satisfying weeknight meal ready in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (such as penne or orecchiette)
Meat and Vegetables
- 8 oz (225 g) Italian sausage, casings removed
- 3 cups (250 g) broccoli florets
Seasonings and Extras
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup (60 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and broccoli together.
- Brown the Sausage: Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
- Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Toss Pasta and Broccoli with Sausage: Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the sausage. Toss everything together, adding some reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce that coats the ingredients.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Using pasta water helps bind the sauce and adds a silky texture.
- Italian sausage can be spicy or mild depending on preference; choose accordingly.
- Optional red pepper flakes add a subtle heat but can be omitted for a milder dish.
- Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
- For gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta.
