Orecchiette With Sausage And Spinach Recipe

There's nothing like the comforting combination of pasta, savory sausage, and fresh greens to brighten up a weeknight dinner. Orecchiette with sausage and spinach is a dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to prepare, with perfectly chewy pasta cradling every bit of flavorful sauce.

I first discovered this gem of a recipe when I was craving something hearty yet wholesome. It’s now a go-to in our household, balancing indulgent flavors with a touch of healthful greens. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this dish!

Why You’ll Love This Orecchiette with Sausage and Spinach

Get ready to meet your new favorite one-pan dinner. This orecchiette with sausage and spinach recipe checks all the boxes for a perfect weeknight meal.

First, it’s quick and easy, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for when you’re juggling a busy schedule but still want something homemade.

Next, it’s packed with flavor. The sausage brings a punch of savory goodness, while the spinach adds a fresh, slightly earthy note that complements the pasta beautifully.

You’ll also love how versatile this recipe is. You can swap out ingredients based on what you have in the fridge or make adjustments to suit dietary preferences without missing a beat.

Finally, it’s a family-friendly dish. Kids and adults alike adore the tender pasta and rich, garlicky sauce. Plus, the spinach is a sneaky way to add some greens to the meal.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your rotation.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of orecchiette with sausage and spinach lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is chosen to create a balanced, flavorful dish that’s easy to pull together.

• Orecchiette Pasta: The unique “little ear” shape of this pasta is perfect for catching bits of sausage and sauce. If you don’t have orecchiette, try small shells or penne as a substitute.
• Italian Sausage: Sweet or spicy, it’s your choice! The sausage is the star of the dish, infusing every bite with rich, seasoned flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausage works beautifully too.
• Fresh Spinach: This nutrient-packed green wilts down into the dish, adding a pop of color and a boost of vitamins. Baby spinach is ideal, but you can substitute kale or arugula if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Garlic and Onion: These aromatics form the base of the sauce, lending a depth of flavor that ties everything together.
• Chicken Broth: A splash of broth adds moisture and helps create a light sauce that clings to the pasta. If you’re vegetarian, use vegetable broth instead.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is the perfect finishing touch, adding a nutty, salty kick.

You’ll also need a large skillet and a pot for boiling pasta. Having a slotted spoon or pasta fork handy will make transferring the pasta a breeze.

How to Make Orecchiette with Sausage and Spinach

Making this orecchiette with sausage and spinach is as easy as it is delicious. Let me walk you through the steps:

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the orecchiette. Cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Brown the Sausage
   While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the sausage to a plate, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
   In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Wilt the Spinach
   Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, working in batches if necessary. Stir until the spinach wilts, about 2 minutes.
5. Combine Everything
   Return the sausage to the skillet and pour in the chicken broth. Stir to combine, then add the cooked pasta to the pan. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
6. Finish with Parmesan
   Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and toss to coat. Serve immediately, garnished with more cheese and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

This dish comes together in just 25-30 minutes, leaving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the meal.

Storage Options

Got leftovers? This dish keeps beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches.

• Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more as it sits, making reheated portions taste just as good.
• Freezer: You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals.

Variations and Substitutions

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

• Swap the Greens: Kale, arugula, or even Swiss chard make excellent substitutes for spinach.
• Change the Protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian version.
• Make it Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta for a richer sauce.
• Add Veggies: Toss in cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish accessible for everyone.

Don’t be afraid to get creative! This recipe is forgiving and welcomes experimentation.

Orecchiette with sausage and spinach is a true crowd-pleaser, offering the perfect balance of hearty and healthy. Once you try it, I guarantee it’ll find a permanent place in your recipe repertoire. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get cooking!

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