If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful meal that feels both hearty and fresh, this One Pot Orecchiette with Sausage, Broccoli, and Chickpeas Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender Italian sausage, vibrant broccoli, creamy chickpeas, and perfectly cooked orecchiette pasta all in one pan, making dinner not only delicious but incredibly simple to prepare. The melding of herbs, garlic, and a touch of spice invites warmth and satisfaction with every bite. Trust me, once you try it, this will become a beloved staple in your weeknight rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role, from adding layers of flavor to contributing delightful textures and vibrant colors. These simple essentials come together to create a balanced dish that’s as nourishing as it is tasty.
- 8 oz. orecchiette pasta: The small, ear-shaped pasta traps flavorful sauce and ingredients beautifully.
- 12 oz. sweet Italian sausage, cut into rounds: Adds juicy, savory notes and a bit of satisfying protein.
- 15 oz. can chickpeas, drained and rinsed: Brings creaminess and a subtle nutty flavor while boosting fiber content.
- 1/2 cup sweet onion, chopped: Provides a gentle sweetness and aromatic base.
- 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped: Infuses the dish with that unmistakable garlicky warmth.
- 3 cups fresh arugula (or greens of your choice): Adds peppery freshness and vibrant green color.
- 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped: Offers crunch and earthiness that pairs perfectly with sausage.
- 3 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth: The cooking liquid that infuses the pasta with flavor while bringing everything together.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Elevates the dish with classic Italian herbaceous notes.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a sweet, slightly minty aroma that brightens the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional): For those who like a subtle kick, this adds just the right amount of heat.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance all the other flavors.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Used to sauté ingredients and infuse a rich, fruity undertone.
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish: Brings a savory, umami finish and a creamy texture when stirred in.
- Freshly chopped parsley and basil: The fresh herbs brighten the finished dish with a pop of color and fragrance.
- Extra crushed red pepper: For optional garnish and an added spicy zing.
How to Make One Pot Orecchiette with Sausage, Broccoli, and Chickpeas Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing them just until they become fragrant and begin to soften—about 1 to 2 minutes. This step lays the aromatic foundation that makes the dish so inviting.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
Add the sliced sweet Italian sausage to your skillet. Let it cook for around 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally so the rounds get lightly browned. This browning unlocks rich flavor and releases those wonderful juices that will infuse the whole dish.
Step 3: Add Pasta and Broth
Stir in the orecchiette pasta along with your choice of vegetable or chicken broth. Sprinkle in the dried basil, oregano, and red chili flakes if you like a touch of spice. Bring everything to a boil, then cover and simmer on low heat for 4 minutes. This step allows the pasta to start soaking up the delicious broth and herbs.
Step 4: Add Broccoli
Next, toss in the chopped broccoli florets and stir gently to combine. Cover the skillet again and cook for another 5 minutes. The broccoli will soften just enough to keep its bright color and satisfyingly tender bite without turning mushy.
Step 5: Incorporate Chickpeas
Remove the lid and add the drained chickpeas to the skillet. Stir carefully and let everything simmer uncovered for about 8 minutes. By now, the pasta should be perfectly tender, and most of the liquid will have absorbed, creating a creamy, cohesive dish.
Step 6: Stir in Greens
Finally, toss in the fresh arugula or any greens you prefer. Stir until the greens wilt gently and mix evenly with the pasta and sausage. This not only adds a beautiful pop of color but also layers in fresh flavor and nutrition.
Step 7: Finish with Cheese and Herbs
Sprinkle in half a cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese, stirring it through so it melts and adds a luxurious creaminess. Before serving, garnish with extra parmesan, chopped parsley and basil, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you like things a little spicier.
How to Serve One Pot Orecchiette with Sausage, Broccoli, and Chickpeas Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley and basil brings a burst of color and a hint of brightness that complements the richness of the sausage and cheese. Don’t forget the extra sprinkle of parmesan and a dash of crushed red pepper to add visual appeal and spice balance.
Side Dishes
This dish stands beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with crusty artisan bread to soak up any lingering sauce. A fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette also complements the hearty pasta perfectly, adding crunch and acidity.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve portions of this pasta in shallow bowls and drizzle a little high-quality extra virgin olive oil on top. You can also turn it into a family-style meal by presenting it in the skillet for guests to serve themselves, creating a warm and inviting dinner atmosphere.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop more as it rests, making it a great next-day meal.
Freezing
This One Pot Orecchiette with Sausage, Broccoli, and Chickpeas Recipe freezes well. Store portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the broccoli may soften slightly after freezing, but the overall taste remains delightful.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low to medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if it seems thick. Alternatively, microwaving in short bursts with occasional stirring works well, preserving the flavors and texture.
FAQs
Can I use spicy sausage instead of sweet Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Using spicy sausage will give your dish an extra kick, elevating the flavors with some heat. Adjust the chili flakes accordingly to balance the spice level.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the sausage and add extra chickpeas or your favorite plant-based protein. You might also consider adding mushrooms or roasted red peppers for more depth.
Can I substitute the orecchiette with another pasta?
Definitely. While orecchiette is ideal due to its shape and texture, penne, rigatoni, or even small shell pasta work well in this recipe.
How do I know when the pasta is perfectly cooked?
Check the pasta towards the end of cooking — it should be tender but still have a slight bite, what Italians call al dente. The broth absorption also indicates it’s ready.
What can I use if I don’t have fresh arugula?
Any greens you love will do, such as spinach, kale, or even swiss chard. Add them towards the end so they just wilt and retain their vivid color.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this One Pot Orecchiette with Sausage, Broccoli, and Chickpeas Recipe enough for anyone looking to whip up a meal that feels special without the fuss. The harmony of flavors, ease of preparation, and beautiful presentation make it a true winner in my kitchen. Give it a try, invite some friends, and watch it disappear from the plate with happy smiles all around!
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One Pot Orecchiette with Sausage, Broccoli, and Chickpeas Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This One Pot Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli is a hearty and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines tender orecchiette pasta with savory sweet Italian sausage, nutritious chickpeas, and fresh broccoli florets. Cooked all together in one skillet with aromatic onions, garlic, and fragrant herbs, this recipe is a quick and convenient meal perfect for busy weeknights. Finished with fresh arugula and a generous sprinkle of parmesan cheese, it’s a comforting and well-balanced dish that requires minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Pasta and Broth
- 8 oz. orecchiette pasta (whole wheat optional)
- 3 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
Proteins
- 12 oz. sweet Italian sausage, cut into rounds
- 15 oz. can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
Vegetables and Greens
- 1/2 cup sweet onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped (or broccoli rabe)
- 3 cups fresh arugula (or greens of your choice)
Herbs, Spices, and Flavorings
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for spice)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Oils and Cheese
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- Freshly chopped parsley and basil, for garnish
- Extra crushed red pepper, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped sweet onion and finely chopped garlic cloves. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened, creating a flavorful base for the dish.
- Brown the Sausage: Add the sliced sweet Italian sausage rounds to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is lightly browned and begins to release its juices, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Add Pasta and Broth: Stir in the orecchiette pasta, vegetable or chicken broth, dried basil, dried oregano, and red chili flakes if using. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, cover the skillet and reduce heat to a simmer. Let cook for 4 minutes, allowing the pasta to start absorbing the flavorful broth.
- Add Broccoli: Add the chopped broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir gently to combine them evenly with the pasta and sausage. Cover the skillet again and cook for an additional 5 minutes, letting the broccoli become tender yet retain its bright green color.
- Incorporate Chickpeas: Remove the lid and add the drained and rinsed chickpeas to the skillet. Stir gently to distribute them throughout. Continue to simmer uncovered for about 8 minutes, or until the pasta is fully tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Stir in Greens: Add the fresh arugula or your choice of greens. Stir until the greens are just wilted and well incorporated into the pasta mixture, adding a fresh and vibrant element to the dish.
- Finish with Cheese and Herbs: Sprinkle in 1/2 cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese and stir to combine. Garnish with additional parmesan, freshly chopped parsley, basil, and extra crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the sausage with a plant-based alternative or skip it entirely and increase the chickpeas for protein.
- Using whole wheat orecchiette adds extra fiber for a healthier option.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red chili flakes or add some crushed red pepper during cooking.
- For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
