Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a dish that’s as delicious as it is easy to make? Look no further than this mouthwatering Sausage and Broccoli Rigatoni! Bursting with the rich flavors of Italian sausage, fresh broccoli, and a hint of garlic, this recipe is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that will have your family begging for seconds. With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, you’ll discover how simple it is to bring a taste of Italy right to your kitchen. Trust us, this is one recipe you won’t want to miss!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add rigatoni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove Italian sausage from casings and crumble into the skillet.
- Cook sausage, breaking it into small pieces, until browned and fully cooked, approximately 6-7 minutes. Ensure no pink remains.
- Add minced garlic to the sausage and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until bright green and slightly tender.
- Drain cooked pasta and add directly to the skillet with sausage and broccoli. Toss to combine.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta. If mixture seems dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to create a light sauce.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Gently mix to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Serve hot, with additional Parmesan cheese on the side if desired. Enjoy immediately for best flavor and texture.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Always remember to salt your boiling water generously; this is your chance to infuse flavor into the pasta itself. Aim for a taste similar to the sea!
- Choosing Sausage: For an extra kick, opt for spicy Italian sausage instead of mild. This will add a delightful heat that complements the broccoli beautifully.
- Al Dente is Key: Cook the rigatoni until al dente for the best texture. It should have a slight bite, which will hold up well when mixed with the sausage and broccoli.
- Pasta Water Magic: Don’t forget to reserve that cup of pasta water! It’s a secret weapon for creating a creamy sauce without adding heavy cream.
- Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh broccoli florets and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The difference in flavor is remarkable and will elevate your dish.
- Customize Your Dish: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and color. You can also toss in red pepper flakes for an extra spicy kick!
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. Serve it hot, and don’t hesitate to sprinkle on some extra Parmesan for that indulgent finish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 65mg
