Pasta Broccoli Rabe Sausage Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Additional Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (225g) pasta (your choice of shape)
• 1 bunch broccoli rabe, stems trimmed and cut into 2-inch (5cm) pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound (450g) Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup (60ml) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Steps to Cook:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli rabe to the pot. Drain the pasta and broccoli rabe, reserving 1/2 cup (120ml) of the cooking liquid.

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.

3. Add the sausage to the skillet and use a wooden spoon to break it up into small crumbles. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Add the red pepper flakes (if using) and the reserved pasta cooking liquid to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced slightly.

5. Add the cooked pasta and broccoli rabe to the skillet and toss to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the pasta and broccoli rabe are heated through.

6. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

7. Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cook’s Note:

• For a spicier dish, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage instead of mild.
• Feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or rigatoni.
• If you can’t find broccoli rabe, you can substitute with regular broccoli florets.
• This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. The pasta may absorb some of the liquid, so you may need to add a splash of broth or water when reheating.

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