One-Pan Orecchiette with Spicy Sausage: A Quick and Flavorful Italian-American Dinner

Rustic One-Pan Orecchiette with Spicy Italian Sausage

Discover the delightful world of orecchiette pasta, those little “ear-shaped” gems that cradle sauce perfectly in every bite. This one-pan wonder combines the robust flavors of spicy Italian sausage with peppery arugula and nutty Parmesan for a meal that’s both satisfying and impressively simple to prepare.

This rustic Italian-inspired dish brings together the perfect combination of textures and flavors in just one pan. The unique shape of orecchiette pasta catches the savory sauce created from the rendered sausage fat and pasta water, while fresh arugula adds a peppery brightness that balances the richness.

Why You’ll Love This Orecchiette Recipe

• ✅ One-pan cooking means minimal cleanup
• ✅ Ready in just 40 minutes from start to finish
• ✅ The pasta cooks right in the sauce for maximum flavor absorption
• ✅ Versatile recipe that can be easily customized with seasonal vegetables

Key Ingredients for Perfect Orecchiette Pasta

• 8 ounces orecchiette pasta
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
• 8 ounces spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 2½ cups chicken broth
• 2 cups fresh arugula
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh basil leaves for garnish

Step-by-Step Orecchiette Cooking Method

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks until nicely browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the pan. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits (these contain tons of flavor!).
4. Add the dry orecchiette pasta directly to the pan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to maintain a simmer. Cover and cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Once the pasta is tender, stir in the fresh arugula and allow it to wilt for about 1 minute.
6. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.

Chef’s Tips for Orecchiette Success

• Pasta selection: Can’t find orecchiette? Small shells or farfalle (bow tie) pasta make good substitutes, though cooking time may vary.
• Liquid management: If the pasta absorbs liquid too quickly, add a splash more broth or hot water. You want a slightly saucy consistency at the end.
• Vegetable variations: Add halved cherry tomatoes, spinach instead of arugula, or sautéed mushrooms for different flavor profiles.
• Make it vegetarian: Skip the sausage and use vegetable broth, adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for depth of flavor.

Nutrition Information

Each serving of this one-pan orecchiette pasta contains approximately:

• Calories: 662 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 46g
• Protein: 31g
• Fat: 39g (Saturated fat: 12g)
• Sodium: 1360mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g

Storage and Reheating Your Orecchiette Dish

This one-pan pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce, and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. A fresh grating of Parmesan cheese just before serving will bring back the dish’s vibrant flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions About Orecchiette Pasta

What does orecchiette mean?

Orecchiette (pronounced oh-reh-KYET-teh) is Italian for “little ears,” referring to the pasta’s unique cup-like shape that’s perfect for holding sauce.

Can I make this orecchiette recipe ahead of time?

While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare this dish up to a day ahead. Reheat gently with a splash of broth and add the arugula just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Is orecchiette pasta gluten-free?

Traditional orecchiette is made with wheat flour and is not gluten-free. However, you can substitute gluten-free pasta shapes with similar cooking times for a gluten-free version of this recipe.

Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests with minimal effort, this one-pan orecchiette recipe delivers exceptional flavor while keeping cleanup to a minimum. The unique pasta shape combined with spicy sausage and peppery arugula creates a balanced meal that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.

Recipe inspired by AllRecipes