Modern Pasta with Broccoli and Sausage

About this recipe

This updated recipe for Pasta with Broccoli and Sausage delivers a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. With a balance of spicy sausage, fresh broccoli, and tender pasta, it's both simple and delicious. Utilizing techniques like cooking pasta and broccoli in the same pot and using reserved pasta water for a cohesive sauce, this dish is a must-try for pasta lovers.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces pasta (such as farfalle or penne)
• 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
• 12 ounces Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Juice of 1/2 lemon

Directions

1. 1

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add broccoli florets and cook for 2 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

2. 2

   In the same pot, cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.

3. 3

   In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sausage, breaking it into small pieces, and cook until browned.

4. 4

   Add garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Cook until garlic is fragrant.

5. 5

   Combine broccoli, cooked pasta, 1/2 cup reserved pasta water, and butter in the skillet. Stir gently to combine.

6. 6

   Add lemon juice, season with salt and pepper, and cook until the sauce thickens slightly.

7. 7

   Stir in Pecorino Romano cheese, toss to coat, and serve hot.