Are you craving a delicious, healthy meal that won't keep you chained to the kitchen all evening? Then look no further! This recipe, inspired by the culinary genius of Milk Street, delivers a vibrant and flavorful pasta dish that's ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this speedy sausage and broccoli rabe pasta is a testament to how quick and easy healthy meals can be. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (short shapes like penne or rigatoni work best)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, removed from casings)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound broccoli rabe, trimmed and roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
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Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
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Add Aromatics and Broccoli Rabe: Add the onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the broccoli rabe and cook until wilted, about 3-5 minutes.
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Combine and Simmer: Return the sausage to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
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Create a Creamy Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
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Serve: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and serve immediately. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key to a great dish. Start checking for doneness a minute or two before the package directions indicate.
- Use good quality sausage: The flavor of the sausage will really shine in this recipe.
- Don't be afraid to adjust the seasoning: Taste the sauce as you go and adjust the salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to your liking.
- Save that pasta water: The starchy water helps create a creamy sauce that clings to the pasta.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Use different types of sausage: Chicken sausage or turkey sausage would also work well.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the sausage and add chickpeas or white beans for protein.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 450-500 Protein: 20-25g Fat: 20-25g Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This easy recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner. Enjoy this healthy meal that's both satisfying and flavorful, proving that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated. It’s a simple recipe that showcases fresh ingredients and delivers a burst of flavor. This quick dinner idea is sure to become a family favorite. Try it and let us know what you think!