Description
This One Pot Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli is a hearty and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines tender orecchiette pasta with sweet Italian sausage, fresh broccoli, and nutritious chickpeas. Simmered in fragrant herbs and vegetable or chicken broth, the pasta absorbs the savory flavors while the greens add a fresh, vibrant touch. Finished with parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, this meal is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz. orecchiette pasta (whole wheat optional)
- 12 oz. sweet Italian sausage, cut into rounds
- 15 oz. can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup sweet onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 3 cups fresh arugula (or greens of your choice)
- 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped (or broccoli rabe)
Liquids
- 3 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
Herbs and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for spice)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cheese and Garnishes
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- Freshly chopped parsley and basil
- Extra crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prepare the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened to release their flavors.
- Brown the Sausage: Add the sliced sweet Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is lightly browned and begins to release its savory juices.
- Add Pasta and Broth: Stir in the orecchiette pasta along with the vegetable or chicken broth, dried basil, dried oregano, and red chili flakes if using. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to a simmer for 4 minutes to allow the pasta to start absorbing the flavorful broth.
- Add Broccoli: Add the chopped broccoli florets to the skillet and stir to combine. Cover again and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the broccoli to become tender while retaining its bright green color.
- Incorporate Chickpeas: Remove the lid and add the drained and rinsed chickpeas. Stir gently and continue to simmer uncovered for about 8 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Stir in Greens: Add the fresh arugula or other greens of your choice, stirring until just wilted and well mixed into the pasta mixture, adding a fresh, vibrant note.
- Finish with Cheese and Herbs: Sprinkle in the freshly grated parmesan cheese, stirring to meld flavors. Garnish the dish with additional parmesan, chopped parsley, basil, and extra crushed red pepper flakes as desired. Serve warm, accompanied by crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Swap out the sweet Italian sausage for a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian variation.
- Use whole wheat orecchiette for added fiber and a nuttier flavor.
- Broccoli rabe can be used instead of broccoli for a slightly more bitter, robust green.
- Adjust red chili flakes to your heat preference or omit completely for a milder dish.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
