Rustic Italian Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Rabe

This Rustic Italian Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Rabe is a comforting, family-friendly dish that celebrates classic Italian flavors. The combination of savory Italian sausage, vibrant broccoli rabe, and hearty beans creates a deliciously satisfying meal.

Tossed with al dente Orecchiette pasta and finished with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan, this dish offers a creamy, starchy sauce that ties all the ingredients together. Perfect for a cozy dinner, it’s a delightful way to bring the taste of Italy to your table!

Rustic Italian Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Rabe

Ingredients:

Pasta:

8 ounces Orecchiette pasta

Main Ingredients:

1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, based on preference)

1 bunch broccoli rabe, trimmed and chopped

1 can (15 ounces) red kidney beans or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

1 teaspoon fresh garlic (minced) or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

1 teaspoon onion powder

Liquids:

1/2 cup reserved pasta water

1/2 cup chicken stock (or vegetable stock for a vegetarian option)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the Orecchiette and cook until al dente, about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions.

Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sausage and Veggies

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the minced garlic (or garlic powder), crushed red pepper flakes, and onion powder. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Stir in the chopped broccoli rabe and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it is tender.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the drained beans to the skillet and stir to combine.

Pour in the reserved pasta water and chicken stock. Stir well to create a creamy consistency.

Add the slightly undercooked Orecchiette to the pan, mixing everything together. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors and thicken the sauce.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the consistency by adding more pasta water or stock if desired.

Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit more heat.

Enjoy!

This hearty and flavorful dish combines the savory taste of Italian sausage with the bitterness of broccoli rabe, making it a family favorite that’s both comforting and satisfying!

Notes:

Pasta Cooking: Cooking the Orecchiette just slightly under al dente helps it absorb the flavors of the sauce when mixed in later. Be sure to reserve that pasta water!

Sausage Options: You can use either sweet or spicy Italian sausage based on your preference. For a lighter option, consider using turkey or chicken sausage.

Broccoli Rabe Substitutes: If you can’t find broccoli rabe, you can substitute it with regular broccoli or sautéed spinach, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.

Bean Choices: While red kidney beans and cannellini beans work well, you could also use chickpeas or lentils for a different texture and taste.

Adjusting Consistency: Feel free to adjust the amount of reserved pasta water and stock to achieve your desired sauce consistency—thicker or looser, depending on your preference.

Garlic Flavor: For a stronger garlic flavor, consider adding fresh minced garlic toward the end of cooking, or use roasted garlic for a sweeter taste.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or stock to loosen the sauce.

Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce. Enjoy with a glass of red wine for a complete Italian dining experience!

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute the Orecchiette with gluten-free pasta.

Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package, as gluten-free pasta may have different cooking times.

What can I substitute for broccoli rabe?

If you can’t find broccoli rabe, you can use regular broccoli or sautéed spinach.

Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the greens are tender.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, omit the sausage and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or tempeh for added texture and flavor.

You can also use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.

What if I don’t have Orecchiette pasta?

If you don’t have Orecchiette, you can use any small pasta shape like shells, fusilli, or even penne.

Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

When reheating, add a splash of water or stock to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out.

What equipment do I need to make this dish?

You’ll need a large pot for boiling the pasta, a skillet for cooking the sausage and vegetables, a colander for draining the pasta, and mixing utensils like a spoon or spatula.

How can I tell when the sausage is fully cooked?

The sausage should be browned and no longer pink in the center.

If using a meat thermometer, it should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).

Is it necessary to reserve pasta water?

Yes, reserving pasta water is important!

The starchy water helps create a creamy sauce and helps the other ingredients adhere to the pasta.

What should I do if the sauce is too thick?

If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add more reserved pasta water or chicken stock a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sausage and veggies ahead of time.

Just cook the pasta when you’re ready to serve, and combine everything together.

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.