Simple Sausage and Broccoli Pasta
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
20 mins
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Total Time
30 mins
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Servings
4
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Simple Sausage and Broccoli Pasta
Description
This recipe uses Italian sausage cooked first to develop browned flavor, then broccoli is added and steamed in the same pan. Garlic infuses the sauce along with half-and-half and freshly grated Parmesan, creating a creamy coating for the pasta. The sauce incorporates flavorful browned bits from the pan, adding depth. Red pepper flakes offer a subtle spice that can be adjusted. The pasta is cooked separately until al dente, then combined with the sauce and sausage mixture.
The final dish has a balance of textures: tender broccoli, slightly spicy sausage, and creamy sauce that clings to the noodles. It is versatile for weeknight dinners, offering protein and veggies in a single dish without complex preparation. The flavors meld together through the gentle cooking steps, producing a harmonious, satisfying pasta meal.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta uncooked
- 1 Italian sausage cut into small pieces (or crumble it, 17.6 oz/500g package
- 1 broccoli cut into small florets, head
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese freshly grated
- red pepper flakes to taste
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil a large, salted pot of water and cook pasta al dente according to package directions.
- Prep your sausage. Add it to a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring often, until it's browned and mostly cooked through (about 8-10 minutes).
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the broccoli. Cover the pan and cook for 4 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic.
- Add in the half-and-half. Let it bubble for a couple of minutes, ensuring the brown bits at the bottom of the pan are scraped into the sauce. Test if broccoli is cooked to your liking. If not, cook a bit longer.
- Stir in the parmesan cheese and season with salt & pepper and red pepper flakes as needed. Once the pasta is done, drain it and toss it with the sauce. Enjoy immediately.