Italian Sausage with Farfalle and Broccoli Rabe

Italian Sausage with Farfalle and Broccoli Rabe is a delightful two-pan dish that’s sure to impress anyone who enjoys hearty Italian flavors. This recipe combines savory Italian sausage with tender farfalle pasta and slightly bitter broccoli rabe, creating a well-balanced and satisfying meal. The rich flavors meld beautifully, making it a favorite among family and friends.

Serve it alongside cheesy garlic bread for a comforting touch, and pair it with a sparkling white wine for an added touch of elegance. It’s a perfect choice for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home!

Italian Sausage with Farfalle and Broccoli Rabe
Italian Sausage with Farfalle and Broccoli Rabe

Ingredients for Italian Sausage with Farfalle and Broccoli Rabe

  • 1 (16-ounce) package farfalle (bow tie) pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound bulk Italian sausage
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 ½ cups chicken broth
  • ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 bunch broccoli rabe, trimmed
  • ¼ cup butter
  • 1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Step by Step Making Process for Italian Sausage with Farfalle and Broccoli Rabe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the 16-ounce package of farfalle pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente, typically about 8 to 10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside, reserving the pot for later use.

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage

While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the 1 pound of bulk Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook the sausage until it is crumbly and no longer pink, which should take about 5 minutes. After that, add 2 cloves of minced garlic and continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the sausage to brown and the garlic to become fragrant.

Step 3: Add Broth and Broccoli Rabe

Once the sausage is browned, carefully pour off any excess grease from the skillet. Next, add 2 ½ cups of chicken broth and ⅛ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the trimmed bunch of broccoli rabe. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 4 minutes, or until the broccoli rabe is tender.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

After the broccoli rabe is cooked, lower the heat and stir in ¼ cup of butter, 1 ½ cups of grated Parmesan cheese, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Mix everything together until the butter melts and the sauce thickens slightly, coating the sausage and broccoli rabe with a creamy texture.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Finally, add the drained farfalle pasta to the skillet with the sausage and broccoli mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce. Serve the dish hot, garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy this hearty meal with cheesy garlic bread and a sparkling white wine for a delightful dining experience!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

  • Calories: 393
  • Total Fat: 20g
    • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 670mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 36g
    • Dietary Fiber: 2g
    • Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 19g

This dish provides a balanced combination of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, making it a satisfying meal option. Keep in mind that nutrition values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

FAQ’S

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute farfalle with other pasta shapes, such as penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

To lighten the dish, you can use turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork sausage, and reduce the amount of butter and cheese. You can also add more vegetables for extra volume and nutrients.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Cook the sausage and broccoli rabe, then store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat and toss with the cooked pasta.

What can I use instead of broccoli rabe?

If you can’t find broccoli rabe, you can substitute it with other greens like spinach, kale, or even sautéed asparagus. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the greens are tender.

What should I serve with this dish?

This pasta dish pairs wonderfully with a side of cheesy garlic bread and a light salad. A sparkling white wine or a crisp Italian beer also complements the flavors nicely.

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