Orecchiette With Sausage And Spinach Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of orecchiette with sausage and spinach. The little pasta “ears” perfectly cradle the rich, savory flavors of crumbled sausage, while tender spinach and a light garlic-infused sauce bring everything together into a delightful harmony.

This recipe became a weeknight favorite after I first tried it at a quaint Italian trattoria. Recreating it at home was easier than I expected, and now it’s my go-to dish when I want something hearty yet simple to make. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this irresistible dish.

Why You'll Love This Orecchiette With Sausage And Spinach

Get ready to fall head over heels for your new favorite pasta recipe. This orecchiette with sausage and spinach is a perfect blend of bold flavors, quick prep, and wholesome ingredients.

First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. In just 30 minutes, you can have a satisfying meal on the table, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.

Second, the combination of flavors is simply unbeatable. Savory Italian sausage, fresh garlic, and tender spinach create a balance that’s both comforting and exciting. Tossed with al dente orecchiette pasta, each bite feels like a mini celebration.

This dish is also highly customizable. Prefer a spicy kick? Use hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Looking for something lighter? Substitute turkey sausage and throw in extra veggies.

And let’s not forget how budget-friendly it is. Using everyday ingredients means you can create a restaurant-quality meal without breaking the bank.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient has a role to play, and when combined, they create a masterpiece of flavor and texture.

Orecchiette pasta is the star of the show. Its unique shape is ideal for capturing bits of sausage and sauce, ensuring every bite is loaded with flavor. If you can’t find orecchiette, small shells or penne are good alternatives.

Italian sausage adds depth and richness to the dish. I recommend using fresh sausage and removing the casings for easier crumbling. You can choose between mild or spicy sausage based on your preference.

Fresh spinach brings a pop of color and a hint of earthiness. Baby spinach works best as it wilts quickly and blends seamlessly into the dish. Kale or arugula can also be substituted for a slightly different flavor profile.

Garlic and olive oil form the base of the sauce. Be sure to use good-quality olive oil for the best flavor. Garlic should be fresh and minced finely to infuse the dish with its aromatic charm.

A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese at the end ties everything together with a touch of salty, nutty goodness. For a dairy-free version, nutritional yeast can be used as a substitute.

If you have one, a large skillet is the only special equipment needed to cook the sausage and bring the dish together.

How To Make This Orecchiette With Sausage And Spinach

Making this dish is straightforward and rewarding, even for beginners. Here’s how to create a delicious bowl of orecchiette with sausage and spinach.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orecchiette pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining, as this starchy liquid will help create the sauce.

Meanwhile, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Stir occasionally until it’s browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.

Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as garlic can turn bitter quickly.

Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and stir until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes. If your skillet is too full, add the spinach in batches, letting each portion wilt before adding more.

Once the spinach has softened, stir in the cooked pasta. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the mixture and create a light, glossy sauce. Toss everything together until well combined.

Finally, remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Give it a quick stir to incorporate, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

This entire process takes about 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver on busy nights when you crave something homemade and comforting.

Storage Options

This dish stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

To refrigerate, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce.

For freezing, pack the pasta into a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

While reheated pasta is delicious, keep in mind that the spinach may lose some of its vibrant color after freezing.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to experiment with different ingredients to suit your taste.

For a spicy version, use hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes during cooking.

If you’re looking to make it vegetarian, swap out the sausage for plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms.

Want more vegetables? Toss in cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or even roasted butternut squash for added flavor and nutrition.

For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese just before serving.

Finally, consider switching up the greens. Arugula, kale, or Swiss chard can all work beautifully in place of spinach, each bringing its own unique flavor to the dish.

No matter how you choose to adapt it, this orecchiette with sausage and spinach recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen. So grab your apron and give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!

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