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There’s something undeniably delightful about the pairing of Italian sausage with pasta. This dish takes that classic combination up a notch by introducing tender cavatelli, slightly charred broccolini, and creamy ricotta to the mix. The addition of Parmesan provides a hint of umami, making every bite a savory sensation. Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or just want a hearty weeknight meal, this dish has you covered. With a few key ingredients and simple steps, you can transport your taste buds straight to Italy.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 lb cavatelli pasta
  • 1 lb Italian sausage, crumbled
  • 2 bunches broccolini, trimmed and cut into 2-inch lengths
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta (10 minutes): In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the cavatelli pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the sausage (8 minutes): In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the crumbled Italian sausage until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage and set aside.
  3. Cook the broccolini (6 minutes): In the same skillet, add olive oil, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about a minute, then add the broccolini. Cook until the broccolini is tender and slightly charred.
  4. Combine (3 minutes): Return the sausage to the skillet, add the cooked cavatelli, and toss everything together. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Serve (2 minutes): Dish out the cavatelli and sausage mixture into serving bowls. Dollop with ricotta, sprinkle with Parmesan, and serve immediately.

Notes

This pasta is a versatile dish that pairs well with various side dishes, from a fresh Caesar salad to roasted vegetables. If you’re aiming for an extra layer of richness, consider drizzling with truffle oil just before serving. For wine lovers, a glass of Chianti or a crisp white wine complements the flavors beautifully. Remember, fresh pasta always makes a difference in taste and texture. And if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, add some cherry tomatoes to the skillet for an extra pop of color and tang.

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition