One-Pan Orecchiette with Sausage & Greens

One-Pan Orecchiette with Sausage & Greens is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines hearty pasta, savory sausage, and nutritious greens. This meal is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe simplifies dinner time by cooking everything in one pan. It saves you from washing multiple pots and pans while still delivering a tasty and balanced meal. The combination of sausage and greens brings together protein and vitamins, creating a dish that’s both filling and healthy. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can easily be adjusted to suit your taste!

How to Make One-Pan Orecchiette with Sausage & Greens

Ingredients

12 oz orecchiette pasta
1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
3 cups spinach or kale, roughly chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
Salt & black pepper to taste
Optional: red pepper flakes for a kick

Directions

In a large deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned and crumbled. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
Add orecchiette and enough water to just cover. Season with salt. Bring to a boil, reduce to simmer, and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and water is mostly absorbed (about 10–12 minutes).
Stir in greens and cooked sausage. Cook until wilted.
Stir in Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Serve hot with extra cheese on top.

How to Serve One-Pan Orecchiette with Sausage & Greens

Serve the dish hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese for added flavor. You can also add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

How to Store One-Pan Orecchiette with Sausage & Greens

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or a little olive oil to help bring back moisture.

Tips to Make One-Pan Orecchiette with Sausage & Greens

Use any greens you have on hand. Kale, spinach, or even Swiss chard work well in this recipe.
For a vegetarian version, substitute the sausage with a plant-based alternative or use mushrooms for that meaty texture.
Adjust the spice to your liking. Add more red pepper flakes for extra heat or leave them out for a milder dish.

Variation

You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for more variety. This recipe is flexible, so feel free to experiment with what you have in your kitchen!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta type you prefer, but keep in mind that the cooking time might vary.

2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free orecchiette or any gluten-free pasta of your choice.

3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.