Italian Sausage and Broccolini Pasta Recipe
When I need a meal that’s both quick and packed with flavor, I turn to this Italian Sausage and Broccolini Pasta. It’s a dish I started making when I wanted something a little different from the usual spaghetti and meatballs. The combination of savory sausage, tender broccolini, and garlicky pasta is so satisfying, and it’s become a regular in our dinner rotation. My kids love it, and I love how easy it is to make. If you’re looking for a meal that’s simple, healthy, and delicious, this recipe is for you. Let me show you how to make it—it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again.
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your choice)
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 bunch broccolini, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a little heat
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the broccolini and cook for 4-5 minutes, until tender-crisp. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together. If the mixture seems dry, add a little pasta water to loosen it.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if desired.