Creamy Sausage and Broccoli Pasta

This Creamy Sausage and Broccoli Pasta is made with Italian sausage, garlic, chicken broth, broccoli, butter, parmesan and pasta.

Sausage and broccoli pasta is a delicious and easy-to-make Italian-inspired dish. It typically involves cooking pasta and Italian sausage, and then tossing them together with sautéed broccoli florets and garlic. The dish is often finished with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley.

One of the great things about sausage and broccoli pasta is its versatility. You can use any type of pasta you like, from spaghetti to penne to fusilli, and you can also swap out the broccoli for other vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. Similarly, you can adjust the amount of sausage to your liking, or use a different type of protein altogether, such as chicken or shrimp.

This dish is not only delicious, but it's also relatively healthy, as it's packed with fiber, vitamins, and protein. It's a great option for a quick and easy weeknight meal that the whole family can enjoy. This dish is so quick and easy to make. It almost seems impossible to make a recipe that the whole family would like, but this one is a winner. This meal is an an easy way to get your kids to eat their broccoli. It takes 25 minutes to make making this a quick and easy recipe.

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Jump to:

• What is Sausage and Broccoli Pasta?
• Why you will love this recipe
• What you will need
• How to make Sausage and Broccoli Pasta
• Substitutions
• Sausage and Broccoli Pasta Recipe Variations
• Equipment
• How to store Sausage and Broccoli Pasta
• Sausage and Broccoli Pasta Recipe Top tips
• Sausage and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
• Food safety

What is Sausage and Broccoli Pasta?

Creamy sausage and broccoli pasta is a variation of the classic sausage and broccoli pasta dish. As the name suggests, this version includes a creamy sauce, which adds a rich and indulgent flavor to the dish. The creamy sauce is typically made by combining heavy cream or half-and-half with grated Parmesan cheese, garlic, and Italian seasoning, and then simmering until it thickens. In this case, we will be using room temperature egg yolks to add the creaminess.

To make creamy sausage and broccoli pasta, you would first cook the pasta according to package instructions, while sautéing the sausage and broccoli with garlic in a separate pan. Then, the creamy sauce would be added to the sausage and broccoli mixture, and the entire mixture would be combined with the cooked pasta. The dish is often finished with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley.

Why you will love this recipe

Creamy sausage and broccoli pasta is a delicious and satisfying meal that is great for several reasons. First, the creaminess of the sauce adds a rich and indulgent flavor to the dish, making it feel like a special treat. This can be especially comforting on a chilly evening or when you're in the mood for some comfort food.

Additionally, the combination of sausage and broccoli provides a nice balance of protein and vegetables, making this a well-rounded meal that can help keep you feeling full and satisfied. The pasta also provides a good source of carbohydrates, which can help give you energy and keep you feeling full for longer.

Finally, creamy sausage and broccoli pasta is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your preferences. You can adjust the amount of sausage or broccoli to your liking, or even swap them out for other ingredients, such as chicken, shrimp, or different vegetables. You can also experiment with different types of pasta, such as penne or fettuccine, to create a dish that is uniquely your own.

What you will need

• Sausage
• Garlic
• Onion
• Olive oil
• Chicken broth
• Broccoli
• Butter
• Egg yolks
• Pasta
• Parmesan cheese

See recipe card for Creamy Sausage and Broccoli Pasta quantities.

How to make Sausage and Broccoli Pasta

*See video below for step by step instructions.

Hint: The egg yolks and butter will create the creaminess the dish deserves. Make sure the pot is removed from heat so you don't end up with scrambled eggs.

Substitutions

• Sausage: I love using Italian sausage for this, with a combination of some being spicy and some being sweet.
• Broccoli: For best results, use a fresh head of broccoli. You could use frozen broccoli and defrost it as well.
• Parmesan: I use regular grated parmesan from the store. You could also grate your own parmesan too.
• Garlic: You can smash the garlic or mince it.
• Olive Oil: I would extra virgin olive oil for best quality and taste.
• Pasta: I used rigatoni but you can use any bite size pasta.

Sausage and Broccoli Pasta Recipe Variations

There are many ways to customize a recipe for creamy sausage and broccoli pasta, depending on your preferences and what ingredients you have on hand. Here are a few variations to consider:

• Swap the sausage: Instead of using Italian sausage, try using a different type of sausage, such as spicy sausage or chicken sausage. You could also try using ground beef or turkey instead.
• Vary the vegetables: Broccoli is a classic choice for this dish, but you could also try using other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. You could even use a combination of vegetables to add more color and variety.
• Add some heat: If you like a little spice, try adding some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeño to the dish. This will add a nice kick of heat and flavor.
• Use a different type of pasta: While spaghetti is the classic choice for this dish, you could also try using penne, fettuccine, or another type of pasta that you enjoy.
• Make it gluten-free: If you're following a gluten-free diet, you can use gluten-free pasta and make sure that any sausage or other ingredients you use are also gluten-free.
• Add some herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or oregano can add a nice burst of flavor to this dish. Try adding a handful of chopped herbs to the pasta before serving.
• Make it lighter: If you want to make this dish a bit healthier, you could try using low-fat cream or milk instead of heavy cream. You could also use turkey sausage or chicken instead of pork sausage to reduce the fat content.

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Equipment

To make sausage and broccoli pasta, you don't need any specialized equipment. Here are the basic kitchen tools and equipment you'll need:

• Large pot: To cook the pasta, you'll need a large pot with enough capacity to hold the pasta and water.
• Large pan: To cook the sausage and broccoli, you'll need a large pan or skillet that's big enough to hold all the ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: To stir the sausage and broccoli as they cook, you'll need a wooden spoon or spatula.
• Strainer: To drain the cooked pasta, you'll need a strainer or colander.
• Cutting board and knife: To chop the broccoli and any other vegetables or herbs, you'll need a cutting board and knife.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To measure out the pasta, sauce ingredients, and any other ingredients, you'll need measuring cups and spoons.
• Grater: To grate Parmesan cheese, you'll need a cheese grater.
• Serving bowl: To serve the pasta, you'll need a large serving bowl or individual plates.

How to store Sausage and Broccoli Pasta

To store sausage and broccoli pasta, you should first allow it to cool down to room temperature. Once cooled, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.

If you're planning on storing the pasta for longer than four days, you can also freeze it. Simply place the cooled pasta in an airtight container or freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to three months.

To reheat the pasta, you can either microwave it in a microwave-safe dish or reheat it on the stove. If microwaving, cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent the pasta from drying out. If reheating on the stove, add a splash of water or chicken broth to the pan to help loosen the sauce and prevent sticking.

Sausage and Broccoli Pasta Recipe Top tips

Here are some top tips to help you make the perfect sausage and broccoli pasta:

• Cook the pasta al dente: Be sure to cook the pasta until it's al dente, or still slightly firm to the bite. This will ensure that the pasta has the right texture and won't become mushy or overcooked.
• Brown the sausage: When cooking the sausage, be sure to brown it on all sides. This will help to develop its flavor and give it a nice crispy texture.
• Don't overcook the broccoli: Broccoli cooks quickly, so be sure to add it to the pan at the right time. Cook it until it's tender but still slightly firm to the bite. Overcooked broccoli can become mushy and lose its flavor.
• Save some pasta water: Before draining the pasta, scoop out a cup of the pasta water and set it aside. This starchy water can be added to the sauce to help thicken it and make it creamier.
• Add the sauce to the pan: Once the pasta is cooked, add it directly to the pan with the sausage and broccoli. This will help the pasta absorb the flavors of the sauce and make it more flavorful.
• Use fresh Parmesan cheese: For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Avoid using pre-grated cheese, as it can be dry and lack flavor.
• Garnish with fresh herbs: To add a pop of color and flavor, sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs over the top of the pasta before serving. Basil, parsley, and oregano are all great options.

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Food safety

• Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
• Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
• Wash hands after touching raw meat
• Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
• Never leave cooking food unattended
• Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
• Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove

See more guidelines at USDA.gov.