Orecchiette With Sausage And Spinach Recipe

There's something irresistible about the way orecchiette cradles rich, flavorful sausage and tender, garlicky spinach in every bite. The balance of textures and flavors makes this dish a standout for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties.

I discovered this recipe years ago when I needed a quick dinner idea that felt special. With just a few pantry staples and 30 minutes, I had a meal that made everyone at the table ask for seconds. Let's dive in and see why this recipe is destined to be your new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Orecchiette with Sausage and Spinach

Get ready to fall head over heels for this simple yet satisfying pasta dish. Orecchiette with sausage and spinach is everything you want in a meal: quick, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable.

First, this dish is incredibly easy to make, coming together in just 30 minutes. Whether you're short on time or energy, it’s the perfect choice for a delicious dinner with minimal fuss.

It’s also bursting with flavor. The savory sausage, aromatic garlic, and tender spinach create a perfect harmony that’s both comforting and impressive. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan, and you’ve got a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Plus, this recipe is budget-friendly. With a short list of simple ingredients, you can whip up a meal that serves the whole family without breaking the bank.

Finally, it’s highly customizable. Swap in kale, use chicken sausage, or add a touch of spice with red pepper flakes. The possibilities are endless, making it a versatile go-to for any occasion.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, but each ingredient plays a vital role in bringing it all together. Here's a closer look at what you'll need:

• Orecchiette: This small, ear-shaped pasta is perfect for catching the sausage and spinach in every bite. If you don’t have orecchiette, shells or farfalle work well as substitutes.
• Italian sausage: Opt for mild or spicy Italian sausage depending on your taste preferences. Removing the casing ensures it cooks evenly and crumbles beautifully into the sauce.
• Spinach: Fresh baby spinach is the star green in this recipe, adding color and nutrients. You can also use frozen spinach; just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the dish.
• Garlic: Minced garlic adds a burst of flavor that ties everything together. Use fresh garlic for the best results.
• Parmesan cheese: A generous grating of fresh Parmesan adds a salty, nutty finish. Pre-grated cheese will work in a pinch, but freshly grated delivers superior flavor.

You’ll also need olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. For equipment, a large skillet and a pasta pot are all you need to make this dish shine.

How to Make Orecchiette with Sausage and Spinach

Creating this dish is straightforward, but each step builds flavor for a result that’s truly special. Here’s how to make it:

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook orecchiette according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining the rest.

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Sauté until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then toss in the garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then stir in the spinach. Cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and combine it with the spinach and garlic. Add the drained pasta, along with a splash of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together over low heat, allowing the flavors to meld.

Finish with a generous sprinkling of Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately and savor every bite!

Storage Options

This dish is just as delightful reheated, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to store it:

• Refrigerator: Store the pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: While freezing is possible, fresh spinach and pasta can become watery upon reheating. If freezing, consider undercooking the pasta slightly to prevent over-softening.

To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to the pasta and warm it in a skillet over medium heat. This helps revive the creamy texture and prevents it from drying out.

Variations and Substitutions

The flexibility of this recipe means you can tailor it to suit your tastes and what you have on hand. Here are a few ideas:

• Vegetarian option: Replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage for a meat-free version.
• Greens swap: Sub in kale, arugula, or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a different flavor and texture.
• Cheese lovers: Add dollops of ricotta or crumbled goat cheese for an extra creamy finish.
• Spice it up: Use hot Italian sausage or add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for a fiery kick.
• Gluten-free: Swap the orecchiette for your favorite gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.

Don't be afraid to get creative! This recipe is a blank canvas for experimenting with flavors and ingredients.

With its unbeatable combination of simplicity, flavor, and adaptability, Orecchiette with Sausage and Spinach is a must-have recipe in your repertoire. Whip it up tonight, and watch as it becomes an instant family favorite!

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