Orecchiette With Sausage And Spinach Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a warm bowl of orecchiette with sausage and spinach. The chewy pasta, hearty sausage, and fresh spinach come together in a dish that's both satisfying and simple enough for any weeknight meal.

this Recipe

I discovered this recipe during a trip to Italy, where it was a local favorite. Since then, it's become a household staple, delivering restaurant-quality flavor without the fuss. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so irresistible.

Why You'll Love This Orecchiette With Sausage And Spinach

Get ready to fall in love with a dish that checks all the right boxes. Orecchiette with sausage and spinach is the kind of meal that feels fancy yet effortless to make.

First off, this recipe is incredibly quick and easy. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a flavorful, homemade dinner on the table in about 30 minutes.

It’s also a one-pan wonder. Aside from boiling the pasta, everything comes together in a single skillet, saving you time and energy on cleanup.

This dish is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you prefer spicy sausage for a kick of heat or mild sausage for a family-friendly option, it can easily be tailored to your taste.

Lastly, the combination of tender pasta, savory sausage, and fresh spinach delivers the perfect balance of textures and flavors. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether you’re feeding a picky eater or impressing dinner guests.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of orecchiette with sausage and spinach lies in its simplicity. Every ingredient plays a key role, so let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need.

Orecchiette is the pasta star of this dish. Its little “ear” shape is perfect for scooping up bits of sausage and catching the flavorful sauce. If you don’t have orecchiette, small shells or even penne can work in a pinch.

Sausage brings bold flavor and richness to the dish. Opt for Italian sausage—either mild or spicy, depending on your preference. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a mix of both for a balanced flavor profile.

Spinach adds a touch of freshness and lightness to the dish. Baby spinach is ideal because it wilts quickly, but regular spinach works just as well. If spinach isn’t your thing, consider swapping it with kale or arugula.

Garlic and onions form the aromatic base of the dish. Freshly minced garlic and diced yellow onion provide depth and complexity, enhancing the sausage’s natural flavors.

White wine or chicken broth helps deglaze the pan and create a subtle sauce. White wine adds a touch of acidity, while chicken broth keeps it rich and comforting.

A large skillet or sauté pan is essential for cooking everything together seamlessly. Make sure it’s big enough to handle the sausage, spinach, and pasta all at once.

How To Make This Orecchiette With Sausage And Spinach

Cooking orecchiette with sausage and spinach is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Here’s how to bring this dish to life.

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the orecchiette according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining, as it’s key for the sauce.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and crumble the sausage into the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and cooked through. Remove it from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then toss in the diced onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened, then add the minced garlic. Cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Deglaze the pan with white wine or chicken broth, scraping up the browned bits at the bottom. Let it simmer for a minute or two to reduce slightly, then return the sausage to the pan.

Add the spinach to the skillet, stirring until it wilts. This should only take a minute or two. Toss in the cooked orecchiette and a splash of reserved pasta water, stirring until everything is well-coated and heated through.

Finish the dish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, you’re in luck—this dish reheats beautifully. Store any remaining pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, transfer the pasta to a skillet with a splash of water or chicken broth. Warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

For longer storage, you can freeze this dish, although the spinach may lose some of its texture. Place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of this recipe makes it a favorite in any kitchen. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the spinach for kale, Swiss chard, or arugula for a slightly different flavor and texture.
• Use turkey sausage or plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly option.
• Add a pop of color with sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers mixed in with the spinach.
• Incorporate a handful of pine nuts or toasted breadcrumbs for added crunch.
• Experiment with the sauce by adding a splash of heavy cream or mascarpone for a richer finish.

This orecchiette with sausage and spinach recipe is your ticket to a comforting, flavorful meal that’s sure to become a favorite. Don’t be afraid to make it your own and enjoy every bite!

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