Spicy Sausage, Broccoli Rabe & Parmesan: A Flavor-Packed Pasta Perfection

This Spicy Sausage, Broccoli Rabe & Parmesan pasta is a dish that explodes with flavor. The bitterness of the broccoli rabe perfectly complements the spicy sausage, and the parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami richness that ties everything together. It’s a quick and easy weeknight meal that feels sophisticated and satisfying. This recipe is incredibly versatile; feel free to adjust the amount of spice or swap out the pasta shape to your liking. Prepare to have your taste buds tantalized!

## Why This Recipe Works

* **Flavor Contrast:** The combination of bitter broccoli rabe, spicy sausage, and salty parmesan creates a complex and delightful flavor profile.
* **Quick and Easy:** This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
* **Versatile:** You can easily customize this recipe to your liking by adjusting the spice level, adding other vegetables, or using different types of pasta.
* **Nutritious:** Broccoli rabe is packed with vitamins and minerals, making this a relatively healthy and satisfying meal.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

* **1 pound pasta** (orecchiette, penne, cavatappi, or your favorite shape)
* **1 pound spicy Italian sausage**, casings removed
* **1 large bunch broccoli rabe**, trimmed and chopped
* **4 cloves garlic**, minced
* **1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes** (or more, to taste)
* **1/4 cup olive oil**
* **1/2 cup dry white wine** (optional, but recommended)
* **1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese**, plus more for serving
* **Salt and freshly ground black pepper**, to taste
* **Pasta water**, reserved

## Equipment

* Large pot
* Large skillet or sauté pan
* Colander
* Wooden spoon or spatula

## Step-by-Step Instructions with Detailed Explanations

Here’s a breakdown of how to make this delicious dish, complete with explanations to ensure perfect results every time.

### Step 1: Cook the Pasta

* **Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil.** This ensures the pasta cooks evenly and doesn’t stick together. Use plenty of water – about 6 quarts for a pound of pasta – to give the pasta room to move around.
* **Add a generous pinch of salt to the boiling water.** Salting the pasta water seasons the pasta from the inside out. The salt level should be similar to seawater.
* **Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package directions until al dente.** “Al dente” means “to the tooth” in Italian. The pasta should be firm and slightly resistant when bitten. This ensures the pasta holds its shape and texture when added to the sauce.
* **Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water.** Pasta water is starchy and will help emulsify the sauce, creating a creamy and cohesive dish. This is a crucial step!
* **Drain the pasta in a colander.** Do not rinse the pasta unless you’re planning to use it in a cold salad. Rinsing removes the starch that helps the sauce adhere.

### Step 2: Prepare the Sausage

* **Remove the sausage from its casings.** This allows the sausage to crumble and brown evenly.
* **Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat.** Using a large skillet ensures the sausage has enough space to brown properly without steaming.
* **Add the sausage to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through.** Cook the sausage until no pink remains. Be sure to break it up into small pieces for even cooking. Browning the sausage adds depth of flavor to the dish.
* **Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.** Leaving the rendered fat in the pan will help to cook the broccoli rabe and infuse it with the sausage flavor.

### Step 3: Cook the Broccoli Rabe

* **Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.** Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Stir constantly.
* **Add the chopped broccoli rabe to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until wilted and tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.** The broccoli rabe will shrink significantly as it cooks. If the pan seems dry, add a tablespoon or two of olive oil. It should be tender but still have a slight bite.
* **If using, deglaze the pan with white wine. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.** Deglazing adds flavor and helps to create a richer sauce. Allow the wine to reduce slightly, about 1-2 minutes, so the alcohol evaporates.

### Step 4: Combine and Finish

* **Add the cooked sausage back to the skillet with the broccoli rabe.** Stir to combine.
* **Add the cooked pasta to the skillet.** Toss to coat the pasta with the sausage and broccoli rabe mixture.
* **Add the Parmesan cheese and toss again to combine.** The heat from the pasta will melt the cheese, creating a creamy sauce.
* **Add some of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.** The pasta water will help to emulsify the sauce and create a creamy texture. You may not need to use all of the reserved water.
* **Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.** Remember that the sausage and Parmesan are already salty, so taste before adding more salt.

### Step 5: Serve

* **Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese.** A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add an extra kick.

## Tips for Success

* **Don’t overcook the pasta.** Al dente pasta is essential for the best texture.
* **Don’t burn the garlic.** Burnt garlic is bitter and will ruin the flavor of the dish.
* **Don’t be afraid to use plenty of olive oil.** Olive oil is essential for creating a flavorful sauce.
* **Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.** Remember that the sausage and Parmesan are already salty.
* **Use good quality Parmesan cheese.** Freshly grated Parmesan has the best flavor.
* **Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking.** If you don’t like spicy food, you can omit them altogether.
* **Don’t skip the pasta water!** It’s crucial for creating a creamy, emulsified sauce.

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Sausage:** You can use sweet Italian sausage instead of spicy sausage if you prefer a milder flavor. You can also use chicken or turkey sausage for a leaner option.
* **Broccoli Rabe:** If you can’t find broccoli rabe, you can substitute it with broccoli florets, kale, or spinach. However, the flavor will be different.
* **Pasta:** Feel free to use any type of pasta you like. Orecchiette, penne, cavatappi, and rigatoni are all good choices. Gluten-free pasta can also be used.
* **Cheese:** Pecorino Romano cheese can be substituted for Parmesan cheese. It has a sharper, saltier flavor.
* **Vegetables:** Add other vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini, to the dish.
* **Beans:** Adding cannellini beans or other white beans can add protein and fiber to the dish.
* **Spice:** Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
* **Lemon:** A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end adds brightness and acidity.

## Serving Suggestions

This Spicy Sausage, Broccoli Rabe & Parmesan pasta is a complete meal on its own. However, you can also serve it with:

* **A side salad:** A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a perfect accompaniment.
* **Garlic bread:** Crusty garlic bread is great for soaking up the sauce.
* **Roasted vegetables:** Roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots would be a delicious addition.
* **A glass of red wine:** A Chianti or Sangiovese would pair well with this dish.

## Make-Ahead Instructions

You can prepare the sausage and broccoli rabe mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, cook the pasta and combine it with the sausage and broccoli rabe mixture. Add the Parmesan cheese and pasta water, and serve immediately.

## Storage Instructions

Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. You may need to add a little water or broth to prevent the pasta from drying out.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* Calories: 600-800 per serving (depending on portion size and ingredients used)
* Fat: 30-40g
* Saturated Fat: 10-15g
* Cholesterol: 80-100mg
* Sodium: 800-1200mg
* Carbohydrates: 60-80g
* Fiber: 5-8g
* Protein: 25-35g

## Printable Recipe Card

## Conclusion

This Spicy Sausage, Broccoli Rabe & Parmesan pasta is a flavorful and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. It’s quick and easy to make, and you can easily customize it to your liking. So, gather your ingredients and get cooking! You’re sure to love this pasta dish’s perfect balance of bitter, spicy, and cheesy goodness. Enjoy!