Orеcchiette pаsta, shaped like tiny ears , comes from Puglia in southern Italy . It hold sauce well and is a favorite in many homes . One simple dish is orecchiette with sausage and broccoli , a hearty combo that taste great .
The dish came from old cooking ways in Puglia , where people used fresh things from their garden and farm . The mix of savory sausage and green broccoli make a filling meal that spread beyond its home region . Now cooks everywhere make it because it’s simple but full of flavor .
Using fresh ingredients is key . Broccoli gives bright color , a nice crunch , and lots of vitamins . Sаusage adds a rich meat taste . Together they make a meal that feels both yummy and heаlthy .

What is Orecchiette?
Orecchiette literally means “little ears” in Italian . It’s a small round pasta made from durum wheat semolina and water , and it’s often shaped by hand in Puglia . The tiny cup-like shape catches sauce better than flat noodles .
People have made orеcchiette for hundreds of years in southern Italy . Families would gather to mix semolina flour and water , then press and drag the dough on a board to form each piece . The result is pasta that’s firm but still tender when cooked .
Orecchiette works with lots of sauces and veggies . Aside from broccoli and sausage , you can toss it with tomato sauces , creamy sauces , or mix it cold with other veggies for salads . It’s a star in both hot dishes and chilled pasta salads .
Health Benefits of Broccoli and Sausage
Broccoli isn’t just a green veggie ; it’s full of vitamins C, K, and A , plus fiber and antioxidants . These help your body fight off sickness , help with digestion , and even lower the risk of some diseases . Broccoli’s natural compounds also can ease swelling in your body .
Adding broccoli to meals gives a nice crunch and fresh taste . It’s low in calories and high in fiber , so it can help you feel full and keep a healthy weight .
Sausage often seems like a splurge , but if you pick lean options (like chicken or turkey sausage) it can be a good protein source . Herbs and spices in sausage also boost flavor and add some health perks . Just watch out for high salt or preservatives in some brands .

Ingredients for Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli
To make a tasty Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli , you’ll need:
- Orecchiette pasta: fresh or dried , whatever you have.
- Sаusages: Italian for bold taste , or chicken sausage for less fat.
- Broccoli: fresh is best , but frozen works too.
- Garlic: freshly minced for smell and taste.
- Olive oil: extra virgin for richer flavor.
- Red pepper flakes: optional , if you like a bit of heat.
- Parmesan cheese: grated fresh at the end.
- Salt and pepper: to taste.
- Optional: lemon zest or juice for a bright twist.
Pick broccoli with tight florets and a deep green color . For sausages , look for fewer additives and natural ingredients . These choices make your meal both tasty and healthier .
Recipe for Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli
Directions
- Chop broccoli into bite-size pieces and mince the garlic .
- Boil a large pot of salted water , then cook the orecchiette until it’s al dente (firm-to-the-bite) following package info .
- While pasta cooks , heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat . Add sausage and break it up , cook until browned and done .
- Add garlic and red pepper flakes to sausage , sauté about 1 minute until you smell the garlic .
- Stir in broccoli and a splash of reserved pasta water , cook 3–4 minutes until broccoli is just tender .
- Drain pasta , keep some cooking water . Add pasta to skillet , toss with sausage and broccoli .
- Mix in Parmesan and more pasta water if needed . Add lemon if you want extra zing .
- Serve hot , with extra cheese and red flakes on top if you like .
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with a simple salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a fresh contrast . Crusty bread also works great to scoop up any sauce . A light white wine like Pinot Grigio pairs nicely .
Pro Tips for Perfect Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli
- Taste pasta in the last minute of cooking to get that perfect al dente texture .
- Use reserved pasta water to thin sauce and help it stick to the pasta .
- Adjust red pepper flakes to suit your spice level — try small amounts first .
Variations of Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli
You can change this dish to fit many diets and seasons :
- Vegetarian/Vegan: swap sausage for plant-based sausage or mushrooms .
- Gluten-free: use gluten-free orecchiette made from rice or lentils .
- Extra veggies: add spinach, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for more flavor .
- Herb boost: mix in fresh basil, oregano, or cherry tomatoes for a taste twist .
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid overcooking pasta and broccoli — both should still feel a bit firm .
- Don’t forget to salt your pasta water well and taste your sauce as you go .
- Use enough sausage so the dish isn’t dry or bland — less meat can leave it empty .
FAQs
What’s the best sausage for Orecchiette with Broccoli?
Italian sausage gives strong flavor , but chicken or turkey sausage work too if you want leaner meat . Pick ones with herbs and spices for more taste .
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes , you can cook the sausage and broccoli early , then toss with fresh pasta just before serving . Reheat on the stove and add a splash of pasta water to keep it saucy .
How can I make it healthier?
Try whole-grain or legume-based orecchiette for more fiber . Add extra veggies and cut back on sausage to balance flavor and nutrition .
Can I freeze Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli?
Sure , freeze up to three months . Thaw in the fridge overnight , then warm slowly on the stove with a bit of water to bring back the sauce .
What other veggies can I use?
Get creative — zucchini, asparagus, or peas all work . Just watch cooking times so everything cooks evenly .
Conclusion
Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli is a simple but tasty meal that shows off fresh ingredients . Try different twists and enjoy a warm, comforting dish that’s easy to make and fun to share .

Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli
Equipment
- 1 large pot
- 1 colander
- 1 skillet
- 1 wooden spoon
- 1 large serving bowl
Ingredients
- 12 oz orecchiette pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage sweet or spicy, according to preference
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- ¼ cup olive oil
- to taste Salt
- to taste Freshly ground black pepper
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orecchiette pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and sauté, mixing well. Cook for about 5 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.
- Add the cooked orecchiette to the skillet, tossing everything together. If the mixture seems dry, gradually add some of the reserved pasta cooking water until you reach the desired consistency.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until well combined.
- Serve immediately in a large bowl and top with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.




