As I was flipping through my collection of cherished recipes, I stumbled upon a dish that never fails to ignite the warmth of home: One Pan Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage and Arugula. The mere thought of this comforting meal transports me to cozy Italian kitchens where the sizzle of sausage mingles with the fragrant aroma of sautéed onions.
This delightful one-pan wonder is perfect for those evenings when you crave something satisfying yet simple—no need to fuss over multiple pots while juggling dinner prep! With luscious bites of savory pork sausage and the peppery freshness of arugula, this dish is equal parts hearty and vibrant. Plus, it wraps up beautifully in a creamy Parmesan finish that clings to each al dente orecchiette, making it a crowd-pleaser for family and friends alike.
Join me as we dive into this easy quick dinner recipe, and discover how you can whip up a delicious Italian meal, all in just one skillet!
Why is One Pan Orecchiette Pasta a Must-Try?
Simplicity at Its Best: One Pan Orecchiette Pasta simplifies dinner preparation by elevating a classic dish into an easy, hassle-free experience.
Rich, Savory Flavor: The combination of hearty pork sausage and peppery arugula creates an irresistible taste that excites your palate.
Quick and Convenient: With everything cooked in a single skillet, you’ll save time on both cooking and cleanup!
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: This recipe is perfect for gatherings or family dinners—everyone will eagerly serve themselves seconds.
Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients based on your taste preferences and dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious meal.
One Pan Orecchiette Pasta Ingredients
For the Pasta
- Orecchiette pasta (dry) – This small ear-shaped pasta is perfect for holding onto sauces; you can substitute with any small pasta shape if needed.
- Chicken broth (low sodium) – Adds depth and flavor to the dish; you can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
For the Sausage
- Italian pork sausage – Provides rich, savory flavor; turkey sausage or chicken can be swapped for a lighter option.
- Yellow onion (medium) – Adds sweetness and aroma when sautéed; shallots work well as a milder substitute.
For the Vegetables
- Arugula – Offers a fresh, peppery kick that brightens the dish; you can substitute with spinach for a milder taste.
For Cooking
- Olive oil (extra virgin) – Ideal for sautéing; it enhances the flavor of the dish. For a neutral taste, you can use canola oil instead.
- Salt – Essential for seasoning; adjust based on the sodium level of your broth.
For Garnishing
- Parmesan cheese (grated) – This adds creaminess and a salty tang; if you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast is a great alternative.
Feel free to mix and match these ingredients to make your own version of One Pan Orecchiette Pasta!
How to Make One Pan Orecchiette Pasta
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Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, warm 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Allow the oil to shimmer, indicating it’s ready for sautéing.
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Sauté the Onions: Add the diced medium yellow onion and a pinch of salt to the skillet. Cook until the onions are soft and golden, about 5-7 minutes. This adds a sweet base to your dish.
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Brown the Sausage: Stir in the Italian pork sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes.
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Add the Broth: Pour in 1.5 cups of low sodium chicken broth, scraping the skillet’s bottom to release those flavorful browned bits. Bring the mixture to a boil to marry the flavors.
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Cook the Pasta: Add the dry orecchiette pasta and stir well. Cook for about 15 minutes, gradually adding the remaining broth as the pasta absorbs the liquid until it’s tender and cooked al dente.
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Incorporate the Arugula: Once the pasta is ready, stir in the arugula until it wilts, creating a vibrant pop of color and flavor. Remove the skillet from the heat.
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Serve and Garnish: Dish out the One Pan Orecchiette Pasta into bowls, generously topping each serving with grated Parmesan cheese for a creamy finish.
Optional: For extra zest, sprinkle some freshly cracked black pepper on top before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with One Pan Orecchiette Pasta?
Elevate your mealtime experience by pairing this cozy dish with delightful accompaniments that bring balance and flavor.
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Simple Green Salad: A light mix of arugula and spinach with a zesty vinaigrette enhances the fresh elements while complementing the savory pasta.
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Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside, soft and buttery within; the garlic notes resonate with the savory sausage, making each bite a delight.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned with olive oil and herbs, these caramelized veggies add a rustic touch and a burst of color to your meal.
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Creamy Polenta: This velvety side dish brings a comforting texture that plays well with the pasta’s richness, absorbing those delicious flavors.
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Sangiovese Wine: A medium-bodied red wine with ripe cherry notes pairs beautifully, enhancing the overall dining experience with each sip.
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Tiramisu for Dessert: End your meal on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert—its coffee and cocoa flavors provide a delightful contrast to the main dish.
Let the aromatic and flavor-packed choices crown your One Pan Orecchiette Pasta, transforming a simple dinner into a culinary celebration!
One Pan Orecchiette Pasta Variations & Substitutions
Get creative and make this dish your own with delicious twists and substitutions!
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Dairy-Free: Swap Parmesan cheese for nutritional yeast to keep the creamy flavor without dairy. You won’t miss the cheese at all!
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace pork sausage with a meat alternative or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty, vegetarian option that still delights.
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Extra Greens: Boost nutrition and flavor by adding extra arugula or tossing in sautéed spinach and zucchini for added texture.
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Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes while cooking the sausage. It’ll awaken your taste buds!
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Whole Grain: Opt for whole grain orecchiette or any small whole grain pasta to increase fiber content. Your body will thank you.
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Herbs Galore: Fresh basil or parsley stirred in before serving can elevate this dish to new heights, adding aromatic freshness.
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Garlic Lovers: Include minced garlic while sautéing onions for an extra aromatic element that complements the sausage beautifully.
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Citrus Zing: A squeeze of lemon juice adds a refreshing brightness to the dish, making it feel light and vibrant.
Feel free to mix and match these variations to suit your preferences and dietary needs!
Expert Tips for One Pan Orecchiette Pasta
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Scrape the Skillet: Always remember to scrape the bottom of the skillet while adding broth. This ensures you capture all those delicious browned bits for maximum flavor in your One Pan Orecchiette Pasta.
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Control the Broth: Keep an eye on the amount of broth added during cooking. Adjust based on how saucy you like your pasta to avoid a soupy dish.
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Garlic Kick: For an extra layer of flavor, include minced garlic alongside the onions. It adds a lovely aromatic touch that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
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Adjust for Saucy Preference: If you prefer a saucier pasta, consider adding a splash of extra broth or a touch of cream at the end for a richer finish.
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Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the orecchiette; overcooking can lead to mushy pasta. Aim for al dente for the best texture.
How to Store and Freeze One Pan Orecchiette Pasta
Fridge: Store leftover One Pan Orecchiette Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in individual portions in airtight freezer bags; it can last up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to loosen the pasta and enhance creaminess.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the pasta out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage.
Make Ahead Options
These One Pan Orecchiette Pasta are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can chop the onions and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days in advance. Additionally, the sausage can be cooked and crumbled ahead of time—simply place it in the fridge for quick assembly later. When you’re ready to enjoy this delightful dish, just follow the cooking instructions and add the prepped ingredients to the skillet with fresh arugula and broth. This not only saves time but ensures a delicious meal can be ready in just minutes, making busy weeknights so much easier!
One Pan Orecchiette Pasta Recipe FAQs
What type of arugula should I use?
Absolutely! Look for fresh arugula that is vibrant green and free from dark spots or wilting. If it’s too peppery for your taste, you can substitute it with baby spinach for a milder flavor that still adds a lovely freshness to your One Pan Orecchiette Pasta.
How should I store leftover pasta?
To keep your One Pan Orecchiette Pasta fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools down before sealing to avoid condensation. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of broth or in the microwave.
Can I freeze One Pan Orecchiette Pasta?
Very! Freezing is a wonderful option if you want to enjoy this dish later. Allow the pasta to cool completely, then portion it into airtight freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm it on the stove with a little added broth for creaminess.
What should I do if my pasta is too dry?
If you find your One Pan Orecchiette Pasta is a bit on the dry side after cooking, don’t worry! Simply stir in a bit more chicken broth or even a splash of cream while reheating. This will help reintroduce that creamy sauce and ensure each bite stays delightful!
Are there any allergy alternatives I should know about?
Definitely! If you or someone you’re serving has allergies, you can customize your One Pan Orecchiette Pasta easily. Use gluten-free pasta if needed, and for dairy-free alternatives, nutritional yeast makes a great substitute for Parmesan cheese. Always check ingredient labels to ensure they are allergy-friendly.
Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?
Of course! While the recipe calls for Italian pork sausage, you can use chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version. Each option will impart a slightly different flavor but will still result in a satisfying dish. Enjoy experimenting!
One Pan Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage and Arugula Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, warm 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced medium yellow onion and a pinch of salt to the skillet. Cook until the onions are soft and golden, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the Italian pork sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in 1.5 cups of low sodium chicken broth, scraping the skillet's bottom. Bring to a boil.
- Add the dry orecchiette pasta and stir well. Cook for about 15 minutes, adding remaining broth as needed until tender.
- Once the pasta is ready, stir in the arugula until it wilts.
- Dish out and generously top with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Optional: Sprinkle with freshly cracked black pepper before serving.
