One Pan Orecchiette Pasta – Quick & Easy Dinner Recipe

Looking for a quick, flavorful dinner that doesn’t require a mountain of dishes? This One-Pan Orecchiette Pasta with sausage and arugula is your new go-to! Ready in just 40 minutes, it combines savory Italian sausage, tender pasta, and fresh greens, all cooked in one pan for ultimate ease and flavor. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight family meal or a simple dinner for two, this deliciously simple recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Orecchiette Pasta

• Quick and Easy: With only a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time.

• One-Pan Wonder: Say goodbye to a sink full of dirty dishes! This entire meal cooks in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of savory Italian sausage, fresh arugula, and nutty Parmigiano-Reggiano creates a deliciously balanced dish that’s full of flavor.

• Customizable: This recipe can easily be adjusted to suit your tastes—swap the sausage for a milder variety, add more greens, or toss in your favorite veggies for a personal touch.

• Affordable and Simple: With just a handful of ingredients, most of which you probably already have on hand, this dish is not only budget-friendly but also incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients for One-Pan Orecchiette Pasta

• Olive Oil – The base for sautéing the onions and sausage, adding a rich, smooth flavor.

• Onion – Adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the dish as it caramelizes.

• Spicy Italian Sausage – The star of the dish, giving it a savory and slightly spicy flavor. (You can substitute with mild sausage if preferred.)

• Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – Used to cook the pasta and infuse it with rich flavor, while keeping the dish moist.

• Orecchiette Pasta – A unique, ear-shaped pasta that holds sauce and flavor perfectly. Feel free to swap for another short pasta if necessary.

• Arugula – Fresh, peppery greens that add a burst of freshness and balance out the richness of the sausage.

• Parmigiano-Reggiano Cheese – Grated over the finished dish, it brings a nutty, salty kick that elevates the flavor profile.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need to Make One-Pan Orecchiette Pasta

• Large, Deep Skillet or Pan – Essential for cooking the sausage and pasta together with the broth. A wide, deep skillet helps distribute heat evenly and ensures the pasta cooks properly.

• Wooden Spoon or Spatula – Perfect for stirring and breaking up the sausage as it cooks, ensuring even browning and preventing sticking.

• Measuring Cups and Spoons – Necessary for accurately measuring the broth and olive oil to ensure the right proportions for perfect flavor.

How to Make One-Pan Orecchiette Pasta

• Place your large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once heated, toss in the diced onion along with a pinch of salt. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent.

• Add the sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Continue to cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is fully browned and cooked through.

• Pour in 1 ½ cups of chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a boil, which will help infuse all the flavors.

• Stir in the orecchiette pasta and make sure it’s evenly coated with the broth. As the pasta cooks, add the remaining chicken broth, one splash at a time, until the pasta is tender and the broth is mostly absorbed. This will take about 15 minutes.

• Once the pasta is cooked, add the arugula and stir until it wilts, about 1–2 minutes.

• Remove the skillet from the heat and plate the pasta. Top with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

• A light, refreshing kale quinoa salad with a tangy vinaigrette is the perfect complement to this savory pasta. Try mixing arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a squeeze of lemon for a fresh contrast.

• Serve alongside a slice of warm, crispy garlic bread with melted cheese for a classic Italian touch. The garlic and cheesy flavor pairs wonderfully with the rich sausage and Parmesan in the pasta.

• For a great drink to go with this dish, consider a light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, or red wine sangria. The crisp acidity of these wines balances the richness of the pasta.

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Ingredients – The flavor of this dish really shines when you use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Fresh arugula and Parmigiano-Reggiano can elevate the overall taste and texture.

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Since the pasta is cooked directly in the broth, keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking. Stir occasionally and add the remaining broth gradually to help the pasta absorb the liquid and flavors evenly.

• Control the Spice – If you prefer a milder dish, opt for a mild Italian sausage instead of spicy. You can also adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or seasoning according to your taste.

• Broth for Flavor – Low-sodium chicken broth helps control the salt content while still delivering great flavor. If you want a more intense taste, you can substitute part of the broth with white wine or even vegetable broth for a lighter option.

• Finish with Fresh Cheese – Grating Parmigiano-Reggiano just before serving gives the dish a fresh, creamy finish. Avoid using pre-grated cheese as it won’t melt the same way and might lack the rich flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

• Sausage Options – You can switch up the sausage to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Try chicken sausage for a lighter version, or turkey sausage for a leaner alternative. For a vegetarian version, use plant-based sausage or simply omit the sausage and add more vegetables, such as mushrooms or bell peppers.

• Pasta Substitutes – While orecchiette is a traditional choice, you can easily swap it for other short pasta shapes like fusilli, penne, or rigatoni. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different pastas may require slightly different cooking times.

• Add More Veggies – For a heartier meal, add more vegetables. Try tossing in some cherry tomatoes, spinach, or zucchini for added texture and flavor. You can sauté them with the onions or cook them directly with the pasta in the broth.

• Creamy Version – For a richer, creamier dish, add a splash of heavy cream or a few tablespoons of mascarpone cheese to the pan once the pasta is cooked. Stir it in before serving for a creamy, comforting twist.

• Cheese Variations – If you don’t have Parmigiano-Reggiano, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano, Grana Padano, or even a mild cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage – If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the pasta has cooled completely before sealing it to prevent condensation from making it soggy.

• Reheating – When reheating, place the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen up any absorbed liquid. Stir occasionally to heat evenly. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to cover it with a damp paper towel to keep the moisture in.

• Freezing – While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 1 month. To freeze, allow the pasta to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use other types of short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli if you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for doneness as the pasta cooks. Orecchiette, however, is traditional and holds the sauce and flavors beautifully.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can skip the sausage entirely and either replace it with a plant-based sausage or just load up on more veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. Adding extra arugula and some sun-dried tomatoes will help keep the dish flavorful and satisfying.

Can I use a different type of greens besides arugula?

Yes, you can substitute arugula with other leafy greens like spinach, kale, or even Swiss chard. Keep in mind that spinach wilts much faster than arugula, so you’ll want to add it at the end of cooking.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta instead of regular orecchiette. Many gluten-free pasta options are available, so just select your preferred variety and follow the cooking instructions on the package.

Can I double the recipe to serve more people?

Yes, you can easily double this recipe to serve more people. Just make sure your skillet or pan is large enough to accommodate the increased ingredients. You may need to add a bit more broth or water to ensure the pasta cooks properly.

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More Italian Recipes

• Pan-Seared Italian Sausage
• Fresh Italian Caprese Salad
• Baked Italian Meatball