If you’re searching for a comforting, flavor-packed dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Sausage and Broccoli Pasta Recipe is going to steal your heart. Combining spicy or mild sausage with tender broccoli and a luscious, creamy sauce, every bite is a wonderful balance of savory richness and vibrant freshness. It’s one of those dishes that comes together with familiar ingredients, yet surprises you with its depth and quick turnaround time, making it a perfect weeknight winner or a crowd-pleaser for guests.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients are the secret here, each thoughtfully chosen to layer flavors, textures, and colors that make this Sausage and Broccoli Pasta Recipe truly shine. From the creamy half and half to the fragrant herbs and sharp parmesan, these elements come together beautifully without any fuss.
- ¾ cup half and half: Adds a rich, creamy base without being too heavy.
- 1 ¼ cups chicken broth: Gives the sauce a savory depth that complements the sausage perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce: Delivers a subtle kick to brighten the dish.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds tang and complexity to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce: Introduces umami for extra flavor layers.
- ½ teaspoon EACH: onion powder, oregano, basil, parsley: These herbs and spices enhance the aroma and freshness.
- ¼ teaspoon garlic salt: A savory seasoning that ties everything together.
- 1 teaspoon olive oil: Essential for browning the sausage and layering flavor.
- 1 lb. ground sausage (hot, sweet, or mild): The star protein; choose your favorite heat level to suit your palate.
- ½ cup dry white wine: Adds acidity and depth, making the sauce more vibrant.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Creates a silky richness in the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and punch.
- 3 tablespoons flour: Builds the base to thicken the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon softened cream cheese (optional but recommended): Gives the sauce an extra creamy, tangy note.
- ¾ cup parmesan cheese (grated): Adds a nutty, savory finish.
- ½ pound medium shell pasta: Perfect for holding the sauce and bits of sausage and broccoli.
- 3 cups broccoli (fresh or frozen): Brightens the dish and adds a welcome bite and color.
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice: A splash of brightness to lift all the flavors.
- Red pepper flakes: For that final touch of background heat.
- Freshly cracked pepper: To season just right at the end.
How to Make Sausage and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce Mixture
Start by whisking together the half and half, chicken broth, hot sauce, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, and all the herbs and seasonings in a large measuring cup with a spout—this will make adding the sauce easier later on and allow all those flavors to mingle while you begin cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the sausage. Cook and crumble it until it’s browned and cooked through—this usually takes about 7 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage and set it aside. The little crispy bits left behind will add so much flavor to the sauce, so keep them if you want, switching out butter if desired for richness in the next step.
Step 3: Boil Water for Pasta
While the sausage is cooking or right after, bring a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. This is for your pasta and broccoli, so timing matters to get everything finished perfectly together.
Step 4: Deglaze the Pan with Wine
Return the skillet to medium heat and pour in the white wine, scraping the bottom with a silicone spatula to lift all those yummy browned bits. Let it simmer until it’s reduced by half, about 4 minutes, concentrating the flavors.
Step 5: Build the Roux
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute to awaken its aroma. Then, melt the butter and gradually sprinkle in the flour, stirring continually to avoid lumps. Cook this mixture for 1-2 minutes until the raw flour taste disappears—this will give your sauce a perfect, velvety texture.
Step 6: Cook Pasta and Broccoli
Drop your shell pasta into the boiling water and set a timer as directed on the package for al dente texture. Add the broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking—3 to 5 minutes for fresh, or 2 to 4 minutes if frozen. Drain them together once ready, so you get that bright green broccoli perfectly tender yet with bite.
Step 7: Add the Sauce Mixture
Slowly pour the sauce mixture you prepared earlier into the skillet in small splashes while stirring constantly. This gradual addition helps maintain the sauce’s thickness and prevents clumping. Bring it up to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low to keep it warm.
Step 8: Finish the Sauce
Stir in the softened cream cheese to melt smoothly into the sauce, adding luscious creaminess. Then gradually sprinkle in the grated parmesan, stirring continuously until it fully incorporates. Cover the skillet partially to keep the sauce warm and ready for combining.
Step 9: Combine and Flavor
Return the cooked pasta, broccoli, and sausage to the skillet. Stir gently to meld everything together and heat through evenly. Remove from heat and finish with fresh lemon juice for brightness. Sprinkle red pepper flakes and freshly cracked black pepper on top before serving for that little extra flavor punch.
How to Serve Sausage and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of extra parmesan or freshly shredded basil leaves can brighten the plate beautifully. A light drizzle of good quality olive oil or a few more red pepper flakes can add visual appeal and a hint of extra flavor.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with crusty garlic bread to sop up every bit of creamy sauce. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette is also an excellent way to balance the richness of the sausage and cheese while keeping the meal fresh and light.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the sausage and broccoli pasta in individual stoneware bowls and top each portion with a halved soft-boiled egg or roasted cherry tomatoes. Alternatively, pile it onto a large serving platter for a family-style feast that invites everyone to dig in together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the pasta to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. The flavors actually marry beautifully when reheated, making it just as delicious the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, although the broccoli’s texture may change slightly upon thawing. Pack it tightly in a freezer-safe container and it will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Alternatively, use the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to keep it creamy and smooth.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta in this recipe?
Absolutely! While medium shell pasta is ideal for catching the sauce and broccoli bits, penne, fusilli, or rigatoni also work wonderfully. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
Is it necessary to use cream cheese in the sauce?
No, the cream cheese is optional but highly recommended because it adds a velvety texture and slight tang that elevates the sauce. If you prefer, you can skip it and still enjoy a rich and flavorful dish.
Can I substitute the sausage for a vegetarian option?
For a meatless version, try using plant-based sausage or hearty mushrooms sautéed with some smoked paprika for a similar smoky, savory profile. The sauce and broccoli still shine through beautifully in this variation.
How spicy will this dish be with hot sausage and hot sauce?
If you choose hot sausage and keep the hot sauce, expect a noticeable but balanced heat that complements the creaminess. You can always adjust by choosing milder sausage or reducing hot sauce to suit your taste.
What’s the best way to keep broccoli bright green and tender?
Adding broccoli into the pasta water during the last few minutes of the pasta’s cooking ensures it stays vibrant and crisp-tender. Overcooking will dull its color and texture, so timing is key.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage and Broccoli Pasta Recipe is one of those comforting meals that feels special without requiring complicated steps or rare ingredients. It brings together simple elements in a way that’s truly satisfying and adaptable to your preferences. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how quickly it can become a go-to favorite in your kitchen too!
Print
Sausage and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sausage and Broccoli Pasta recipe combines savory sausage with tender broccoli in a creamy parmesan sauce, enriched by white wine and flavored with herbs and a touch of hot sauce. It’s a hearty, comforting meal perfect for any weeknight dinner, offering a balance of protein, veggies, and rich flavors.
Ingredients
Sauce Ingredients
- ¾ cup half and half
- 1 ¼ cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon basil
- ½ teaspoon parsley
- ¼ teaspoon garlic salt
Main Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 lb. ground sausage (hot, sweet, or mild)
- ½ cup dry white wine
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon softened cream cheese (optional but recommended)
- ¾ cup parmesan cheese, grated
- ½ pound medium shell pasta
- 3 cups broccoli (fresh or frozen)
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- Red pepper flakes, to taste
- Freshly cracked pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce Mixture: Combine the half and half, chicken broth, hot sauce, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, onion powder, oregano, basil, parsley, and garlic salt in a large measuring cup with a spout. Set aside and measure out all remaining ingredients before cooking.
- Cook the Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground sausage and cook, crumbling it with a spatula, until fully cooked through, about 7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. Turn off the heat but keep any drippings in the skillet for added flavor.
- Boil Pasta Water: Begin boiling a large pot of salted water for the pasta so it’s ready when needed.
- Deglaze with Wine: Place the skillet back on medium heat and add the white wine. Use a silicone spatula to scrape and loosen browned bits from the bottom of the pan, then simmer until the wine reduces by half, about 4 minutes.
- Sauté Garlic and Make Roux: Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute. Melt the butter, then gradually sprinkle in the flour, stirring continuously. Cook the mixture for 1-2 minutes until the raw flour smell disappears and the roux thickens.
- Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Add the pasta to the boiling water and set a timer based on package instructions. For fresh broccoli, add it to the pasta water in the last 3-5 minutes; for frozen broccoli, add in the last 2-4 minutes. Drain both pasta and broccoli once cooked.
- Add Sauce Mixture: Slowly pour the prepared sauce mixture in small splashes into the skillet, stirring continuously to maintain thickness. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce heat to low to simmer gently.
- Add Cream Cheese and Parmesan: Stir in the softened cream cheese to incorporate into the sauce. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring continuously. Partially cover the skillet to keep warm while pasta finishes cooking.
- Combine and Finish: Add the drained pasta, broccoli, and cooked sausage back into the skillet. Stir well to combine and heat through over low heat. Remove from heat, stir in fresh lemon juice, and season with red pepper flakes and freshly cracked pepper to taste before serving.
Notes
- You can use hot, sweet, or mild sausage based on your taste preference.
- The white wine adds depth but can be substituted with extra chicken broth if preferred.
- Medium shell pasta is recommended, but any short pasta shape works well.
- Fresh broccoli gives a crunchier texture; frozen broccoli is convenient and just as tasty.
- Reserving sausage drippings enhances the roux flavor; alternatively, use butter alone.
- Use cream cheese for a richer, creamier sauce but it is optional.
