Orecchiette With Sausage And Spinach Recipe

There’s something irresistible about orecchiette pasta – the little "ears" perfectly scoop up a rich, savory sauce, making every bite a delight. In this recipe, it’s paired with flavorful sausage, tender spinach, and a touch of cream for a dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and oh-so-easy to make.

This recipe became a favorite in my kitchen after I discovered orecchiette during a trip to an Italian market. The unique pasta shape combined with the bold flavors of sausage and the earthiness of spinach creates a harmony that’s both comforting and elegant.

Let’s dive into what makes this recipe a must-try for your next meal!

Why You’ll Love This Orecchiette with Sausage and Spinach Recipe

This recipe is everything you want in a weeknight dinner: fast, flavorful, and endlessly satisfying. Here’s why it’s bound to become a staple:

1. It’s quick and easy. From start to finish, you’ll have this dish ready in under 30 minutes – perfect for busy evenings.
2. The flavor combination is unbeatable. The savory sausage, garlicky sauce, and fresh spinach create a delicious medley that’s elevated by the creamy finish.
3. It’s a one-pot wonder. With just a skillet and a pot for the pasta, cleanup is minimal, making it as practical as it is tasty.
4. It’s endlessly versatile. Swap the spinach for kale, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or use chicken sausage for a lighter twist – the possibilities are endless.

Let’s get started with the ingredients!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish lies in its simple yet bold ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Orecchiette Pasta: These "little ears" are perfect for holding the sauce and bits of sausage. If you don’t have orecchiette, small shells or cavatelli work well.
• Sausage: Italian sausage is the star here. Use mild or spicy, depending on your preference. Remove it from the casing for easy crumbling.
• Spinach: Fresh baby spinach adds a pop of color and a healthy touch. If spinach isn’t available, substitute with kale or arugula.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with aromatic depth. Mince it finely for even distribution.
• Heavy Cream: Just a splash transforms the sauce into a creamy masterpiece. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty finish to the dish. It’s best to grate it yourself for the smoothest texture.
• Olive Oil: Use a good-quality extra-virgin olive oil to sauté the sausage and garlic, adding richness to the dish.

Optional additions like red pepper flakes, lemon zest, or white wine can add extra layers of flavor.

How To Make Orecchiette with Sausage and Spinach

This recipe is simple yet impressive. Follow these steps for a perfect pasta dish every time:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orecchiette according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
2. Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add another drizzle of olive oil if needed. Sauté 3 minced garlic cloves for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn.
4. Add the Spinach: Toss in 4 cups of fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Stir the sausage back into the skillet.
5. Create the Sauce: Lower the heat and pour in ½ cup of heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add a handful of grated Parmesan and stir until melted. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
6. Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat every piece with the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil.

Dinner is served – a dish so flavorful, you’ll want seconds (or thirds!).

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making the dish even tastier.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency.
• Freezing: This pasta isn’t ideal for freezing due to the spinach and cream sauce, but if you do freeze it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

Variations and Substitutions

This dish is versatile enough to suit your preferences. Try these variations:

• Switch the Greens: Substitute spinach with kale, Swiss chard, or even broccoli rabe for a heartier twist.
• Try a Different Sausage: Use chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option, or opt for chorizo for a spicier kick.
• Make It Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk in place of cream and skip the Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
• Add Veggies: Toss in roasted cherry tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli for added texture and flavor.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

With these tweaks, you can reinvent this recipe every time you make it!

Orecchiette with Sausage and Spinach is the perfect combination of hearty, creamy, and flavorful. Whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or a cozy weekend dinner, this pasta dish delivers every time. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out!

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