If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful dinner option, this Spicy Sausage Broccoli Pasta is a must-try. It’s a delightful mix of spicy sausage, crisp broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta all tossed together for a satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe brings comfort and a little kick to your table.
Steps
- Boil a large pot of water, then cook the pasta based on the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain it in a colander once done.
- While the pasta cooks, mince the garlic. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet and sauté for an additional minute, ensuring they don’t burn.
- Remove the sausage casing and add the sausage to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until fully browned.
- Add thawed broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes until they are tender. Turn off the heat to avoid overcooking.
- Once the pasta is drained, combine it with the sausage and broccoli in the skillet. Mix to coat everything in the flavored oil.
- Season with salt and freshly cracked pepper to your taste. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
- Stir everything gently to combine, ensuring the cheese is melted and evenly distributed. Serve warm.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage
- 1 pound frozen broccoli florets
- 1 pound bow tie pasta
- 2 ounces (1/2 cup) smoked gouda cheese, shredded
- 2 ounces (1/2 cup) shredded Italian cheese blend
- Salt and freshly cracked pepper, to taste
Nutritional Values
Calories: 3226.48 kcal | Carbohydrates: 378.12 g | Protein: 143.68 g | Fat: 126.64 g | Sodium: 3495.6 mg | Fiber: 28.88 g
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?
- Absolutely! While spicy Italian sausage is recommended, you can use sweet Italian sausage or even smoked sausage for a different flavor profile. Each type will add its unique taste to the dish.
- Is it necessary to use smoked gouda cheese?
- Not at all. While smoked gouda adds a creamy and smoky contrast to the spicy elements, you can substitute it with a shredded Italian cheese blend or parmesan. Even a small sprinkle will enhance the flavors and textures.
- Why use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
- Frozen broccoli is pre-blanched, which speeds up the cooking process. It’s also convenient as it can be stored in the freezer without spoiling, unlike fresh broccoli, which can wilt and become moldy if not used promptly.
- Can I prepare this dish in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the components separately and combine them when ready to serve. Just reheat the sausage and broccoli in a skillet before adding the cooked pasta and cheese.
- What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
- Bow tie pasta is suggested due to its texture, which holds the sauce well. However, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli, based on your personal taste.
Tips
- If you can’t find spicy Italian sausage, feel free to use sweet Italian sausage or even smoked sausage for a different flavor profile. Both options will still taste great in the dish.
- To keep costs down, consider mixing an expensive cheese like smoked gouda with a more affordable shredded Italian cheese blend. A light sprinkle will be sufficient to enhance the flavors without overwhelming the dish.
- Use frozen broccoli florets for convenience, as they are blanched before freezing, which reduces cooking time. Thaw them halfway before adding to the skillet to ensure they cook quickly and evenly.
- Be cautious when cooking the red pepper flakes; if they start to brown, lower the heat slightly to prevent burning, which could result in a bitter taste.
Equipment
- Large Pot (for boiling pasta)
- Colander (for draining pasta)
- Large Skillet or Sauté Pan (for cooking garlic, sausage, and broccoli)
- Garlic Press or Mince Tool (for mincing garlic)
- Spatula (for breaking up and stirring sausage)
- Cheese Grater (for shredding cheese)
