Broccoli sausage and cavatelli

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: ~35 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy
Type: Pasta Entrée
Flavor Profile: Savory, garlicky, mildly spicy

 Ingredients

• 1 lb (16 oz) frozen or fresh cavatelli pasta

• 1 lb Italian sausage, casing removed (mild or spicy)

• 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese

• 3 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter

• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Optional: lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness

 Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta & Broccoli

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Add cavatelli and cook according to package directions.

3. Add broccoli during the last 3–4 minutes of pasta cooking time (if fresh) or 5–6 minutes if frozen.

4. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain pasta and broccoli and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil.

2. Add sausage, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks.

3. Cook for 7–8 minutes, until browned and fully cooked through.

4. Use a slotted spoon to transfer sausage to a plate, leaving the fat in the pan.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet with sausage drippings, add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using).

2. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant — don’t let the garlic burn!

3. Add drained pasta and broccoli back into the skillet.

4. Return the cooked sausage to the pan and toss everything together.

Step 4: Finish & Serve

1. Add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen the mixture and create a light sauce.

2. Stir in butter or a drizzle of olive oil for richness.

3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese.

5. Optional: Add a bit of lemon zest or lemon juice for a bright finish.

 Serving Suggestions

Serve hot, topped with extra grated cheese, fresh cracked pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Pair it with:

• A green salad with balsamic vinaigrette

• Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread

• A glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon

 Nutrition Estimate (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~550

• Protein: ~25g

• Fat: ~25g

• Carbohydrates: ~50g

• Fiber: ~4g

• Sodium: ~600–800mg

Values may vary based on sausage type and pasta used.