Pasta With Chicken Sausage and Broccoli: A Weeknight Delight

I can still remember the first time I made this dish. It was a chaotic Tuesday night, my kids were clamoring for dinner, and I was staring blankly into the refrigerator, feeling utterly uninspired. I had some leftover chicken sausage, a head of broccoli that needed using, and a box of penne in the pantry. Twenty minutes later, a steaming bowl of this simple pasta was on the table, and miraculously, everyone was happy. It’s become a staple in our house, a testament to how delicious and satisfying a quick, healthy meal can be.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Yield: 1 large pot
• Dietary Type: None Specified (Can be adapted for gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta)

Ingredients

• 1 lb broccoli (or broccoli rabe)
• 1 lb penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons water
• 4-5 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1/2 lb chicken sausage, cut into 1/4 inch slices (I find that chicken and artichoke sausage works especially well)
• Salt, to taste
• 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs, toasted (optional)
• Pecorino Romano cheese (optional) or Parmesan cheese (optional)

Equipment Needed

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Colander
• Towel

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the broccoli. Cut the broccoli into 3-inch pieces, discarding the tough stems. You can also substitute broccoli rabe for a slightly more bitter and peppery flavor.

2. Next, blanch the broccoli. In a large pot of boiling water, add the broccoli and cook until tender but still slightly crisp, about 5 minutes. This step helps to retain the vibrant green color and prevents the broccoli from becoming mushy.

3. Before draining the broccoli, reserve 1 cup of the broccoli water. This starchy water will add body and flavor to the sauce.

4. Drain the broccoli and immediately rinse with cold water. This stops the cooking process and helps to preserve the color. Drain well and pat dry on a towel to remove excess moisture.

5. Now, cook the pasta. Follow the package directions for cooking the penne pasta. Be sure to salt the cooking water generously; this is your first opportunity to season the pasta itself. Cook the pasta until al dente, meaning “to the tooth” – it should be firm and slightly resistant to the bite.

6. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the sausage. Place 2 tablespoons of water into a cold skillet along with the thinly sliced garlic and sliced chicken sausage. Then, turn the heat to medium-low.

7. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the garlic is golden and fragrant and the sausage is cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. The water will help to prevent the garlic from burning and keep the sausage moist.

8. Pour the reserved broccoli water into the pan with the sausage. This will create a light, flavorful sauce that coats the pasta and broccoli.

9. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well and place it back into the pot. Season generously with salt to taste.

10. Pour the sausage and garlic mixture over the pasta, then add the blanched broccoli. Stir gently to combine, ensuring that the pasta and broccoli are evenly coated with the sauce.

11. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.

12. Serve immediately, garnished with toasted seasoned bread crumbs and grated Pecorino Romano cheese or Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Toast your breadcrumbs: For extra flavor, toast the breadcrumbs in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown and fragrant. You can also add a little garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the breadcrumbs while toasting.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta holds its shape and texture better when tossed with the sauce and vegetables.
• Add a squeeze of lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens up the flavors and adds a touch of acidity.
• Make it ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated. Store the pasta and sauce separately, then combine them when ready to serve.
• Spice it up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or use a spicy Italian sausage.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve this pasta dish hot, straight from the pot. The optional garnishes of toasted breadcrumbs and grated cheese add a delightful textural and flavorful contrast.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent the pasta from drying out. While freezing is possible, the texture of the broccoli may change slightly.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	572.6 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	98 g	17%
Total Fat	10.9 g	16%
Saturated Fat	3.1 g	15%
Cholesterol	68.1 mg	22%
Sodium	628.4 mg	26%
Total Carbohydrate	103.5 g	34%
Dietary Fiber	15.6 g	62%
Sugars	3 g	12%
Protein	19.6 g	39%

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Vegetarian: Omit the chicken sausage and add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
• Spicy: Use spicy Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Broccoli Rabe: As the ingredients mention, substitute broccoli rabe for broccoli. Broccoli rabe has a slightly more bitter flavor.
• Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Asiago or Fontina.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Thaw it slightly and drain any excess water before adding it to the pasta.

Q: How can I make this dish lower in fat?
A: Use a lean chicken sausage and reduce the amount of cheese or breadcrumbs. You can also skip the breadcrumbs altogether.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.

Q: How long will leftovers last in the refrigerator?
A: Leftovers will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I freeze this pasta dish?
A: While you can freeze it, the texture of the broccoli may change slightly. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making it.

Final Thoughts

This Pasta With Chicken Sausage and Broccoli is more than just a recipe; it’s a reminder that simple ingredients, cooked with care, can create a truly satisfying and memorable meal. I encourage you to try this recipe, make it your own, and share it with the people you love. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different sausages, vegetables, or cheeses to create a dish that perfectly suits your taste. And, if you’re feeling adventurous, pair it with a crisp glass of white wine for a truly delightful experience. Bon appétit!