As I stood over the stove, the warm aroma of sizzling sausage mingled with garlic, instantly transporting me back to sun-soaked streets in Italy. This Easy Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage is a celebration of those cherished moments, offering a comforting taste of Italian home cooking that’s both quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying. In less than 30 minutes, you can be enjoying a bowlful of tender ear-shaped pasta tossed with savory sausage and fresh tomatoes, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknight dinners. Plus, it’s so customizable that you can easily tweak it to cater to your cravings or dietary needs. Curious about how this delightful dish can transform your dinner table? Let’s dive right in! Why is Orecchiette Pasta So Special? Unique Shape: The distinctive ear-shaped pasta holds sauces beautifully, creating a delightful texture in every bite. Quick & Easy: With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence. Savory Satisfaction: The combination of hearty sausage and sweet cherry tomatoes brings an explosion of flavor that pleases every palate. Customizable Goodness: Add your favorite vegetables or swap in turkey sausage for a healthier twist—making it versatile for any dietary need. If you’re looking for more ways to elevate your meals, check out my easy weeknight pasta recipes. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This dish is bound to impress family and friends, offering a taste of authentic Italian comfort right at home. Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage Ingredients • Get ready to whip up this delicious dish with the following ingredients! For the Pasta Orecchiette Pasta – Acts as the perfect base for holding onto all those lovely flavors. For the Sausage Italian Sausage – Infuses the dish with robust flavor; feel free to use turkey or plant-based sausage for a lighter option. For the Sauce Olive Oil – Provides a rich base for sautéing; vegetable oil can work too if you’re looking for a substitute. Garlic (minced) – Brings an irresistible aroma and taste; fresh garlic enhances the overall flavor profile. Cherry Tomatoes (halved) – Adds a touch of sweetness and color; canned diced tomatoes are a good alternative if fresh ones aren’t available. For the Finishing Touches Fresh Parsley (chopped) – Offers brightness and freshness; basil or spinach can be swapped in if that’s what you have on hand. Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; using sea salt can elevate the taste even more. Parmesan Cheese (optional) – Adds a luxurious touch; for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast works beautifully. Dive into this delightful Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage, and savor the warmth and richness it brings to your dinner table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage Step 1: Cook Pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the orecchiette pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then carefully drain the rest and set the pasta aside. Step 2: Sauté Sausage In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the Italian sausage, pressing it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and cooked through. The meat should be nicely caramelized for extra flavor. Step 3: Add Garlic and Tomatoes Stir in the minced garlic, letting it sizzle in the skillet for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook these for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and begin to release their juices, creating a delightful, savory base for your orecchiette pasta with sausage. Step 4: Combine Ingredients Add the drained orecchiette pasta to the skillet with the sausage and tomatoes. Toss everything together gently, incorporating the ingredients well. Gradually pour in the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired sauce consistency, typically around 1/2 to 1 cup. The sauce should cling beautifully to the pasta. Step 5: Finish and Serve Turn off the heat and mix in the chopped fresh parsley, seasoning the dish with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for added richness. Serve the warm orecchiette pasta with sausage in bowls, ensuring everyone gets a delightful serving of this comforting dish. Expert Tips for Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage Salt the Water: Ensure your pasta water is well-salted to enhance the overall flavor of the orecchiette. A general rule is 1-2 tablespoons per gallon of water. Choose Quality Sausage: Opt for high-quality Italian sausage to bring depth to your dish. Avoid processed varieties as they may lack flavor and moisture. Timing is Key: Don’t overcook your pasta! Aim for al dente to maintain texture and allow it to absorb the sauce perfectly. Use Fresh Ingredients: Incorporating fresh garlic and tomatoes will elevate your orecchiette pasta with sausage with vibrant flavors, improving the dish considerably. Customize Wisely: Feel free to experiment by adding vegetables like spinach or zucchini; just be cautious not to overcrowd the skillet as it may alter the dish’s texture. Reserve Pasta Water: Don’t forget to save some pasta water; it’s a great way to adjust the sauce’s consistency while adding flavor. Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage Variations Feel free to unleash your creativity and tailor this dish to your taste preferences! Turkey Sausage: Swap Italian sausage for turkey sausage to lighten the dish while maintaining delicious flavor. Vegetable Medley: Toss in zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrients and vibrant colors in your meal. Herb Swap: Use fresh basil or thyme instead of parsley for a subtle twist, elevating the dish’s aroma. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage to turn up the heat and excitement! Creamy Texture: Blend in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese for a rich, indulgent sauce that sticks to the pasta beautifully. Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle in some feta or goat cheese for a creamy, tangy flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the savory elements of the dish. Gluten-Free Option: Switch out orecchiette for gluten-free pasta to make this meal friendly for those avoiding gluten while still delivering on taste. Canned Tomatoes: If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, use a can of crushed tomatoes; they significantly enhance the sauce’s flavor profile. With these delightful twists, you can turn this Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage into a personalized masterpiece of flavor! Want to explore more pasta fun? Check out my easy weeknight pasta recipes for more inspiration! Make Ahead Options These Easy Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a comforting dish with minimal last-minute effort! You can prepare the sausage and sautéed garlic and tomatoes up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook the sausage until browned, and mix it with the garlic and tomatoes, then refrigerate in an airtight container. When ready to serve, just cook the orecchiette pasta and toss it in with the prepped ingredients, adding a little reserved pasta water for a fresh sauce consistency. This way, you maintain that delicious flavor and texture, making your weeknight dinner a breeze! How to Store and Freeze Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage Fridge: Store leftover Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This prevents drying out, keeping flavors fresh. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. It’s best to portion it for easy reheating later. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge or use a microwave. Gently reheat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or olive oil to revive the sauce’s consistency. Airtight: Make sure to seal containers tightly to protect your leftovers from freezer burn or absorb unwanted odors. What to Serve with Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage As you savor your comforting bowl of pasta, consider adding a few delightful sides to elevate the entire meal experience. Garlic Bread: The perfect accompaniment, offering crispy, buttery goodness that perfectly complements the dish’s rich flavors. Caesar Salad: A classic mix of crunchy romaine, creamy dressing, and Parmesan adds freshness that balances the hearty pasta dish. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers bring vibrant color and added nutrients, making the meal more wholesome. Indulging in these sides creates a true Italian feast, delivering a symphony of flavors and textures that your loved ones will adore. The combination of warm, savory, and fresh elements ensures a memorable dining experience for all. Red Wine: A glass of Chianti or Barbera brings out the Italian roots while enhancing the savory taste of the sausage. Tiramisu: End the meal on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert, providing a delightful contrast to the savory main course. Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe cherry tomatoes? Absolutely! Look for cherry tomatoes that are firm, plump, and vibrant in color. Avoid any with dark spots or wrinkles, which indicate they may be overripe or not as fresh. If you can, opt for tomatoes that have a fragrant, sweet aroma; that’s a sure sign they are ready to shine in your Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage! What’s the best way to store leftovers? Very! To store your Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage, place it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture build-up. For even longer storage, you can freeze it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Can I freeze Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage? Absolutely! To freeze, let the dish cool down completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. It freezes well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge or use a microwave. Reheat gently in a skillet, adding a splash of water or olive oil to maintain moisture. What if my pasta is overcooked? Don’t worry; it happens to the best of us! If your pasta is overcooked, try mixing it with the sauce quickly to absorb some of the flavors—it may help mask the texture. Next time, aim for al dente, where the pasta is slightly firm to the bite. Remember, timing is crucial; check your pasta a minute or two before the recommended cooking time! Is this dish safe for my pet? Be cautious! Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage is not ideal for pets; the seasonings (like salt and garlic) can be harmful to them. If you’d like to share a little pasta with your furry friend, stick to plain cooked pasta without any sauce or seasoning, and always check with your veterinarian if you have any concerns. Are there gluten-free options for this recipe? Yes, indeed! If you’re looking to enjoy Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage without gluten, you can find gluten-free orecchiette at most grocery stores. Just be sure to check the packaging to ensure it’s suitable for your dietary needs. The rest of the ingredients like sausage and tomatoes are typically gluten-free, but be cautious with seasonings or any added sauces. Easy Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage for Comforting Cravings This Easy Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage is a quick and satisfying comfort meal, bringing a taste of Italy to your dinner table. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 500 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta1 pound Orecchiette Pasta Acts as the perfect base for holding onto all those lovely flavors.For the Sausage1 pound Italian Sausage Infuses the dish with robust flavor; feel free to use turkey or plant-based sausage for a lighter option.For the Sauce2 tablespoons Olive Oil Provides a rich base for sautéing; vegetable oil can work too.3 cloves Garlic (minced) Brings an irresistible aroma and taste.1 pint Cherry Tomatoes (halved) Adds sweetness and color; canned diced tomatoes are a good alternative.For the Finishing Touches1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped) Offers brightness and freshness.to taste Salt Essential for seasoning; using sea salt can elevate the taste.to taste Pepper Essential for seasoning.1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (optional) Adds a luxurious touch; for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast works beautifully. Equipment Large PotskilletWooden Spoon Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the orecchiette pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, drain the rest, and set pasta aside.In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, pressing apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through.Stir in the minced garlic and let it sizzle for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.Add the drained orecchiette pasta to the skillet with the sausage and tomatoes. Toss gently and gradually pour in the reserved pasta water until the desired sauce consistency is reached.Turn off the heat and mix in the chopped fresh parsley, seasoning with salt and pepper. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg NotesEnsure your pasta water is well-salted and use high-quality Italian sausage for best results. Customize by adding vegetables as desired. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
