Broccoli With Shells And Sausage
A hearty, flavorful dish combining tender broccoli, pasta shells, and savory sausage, enhanced with garlic, olive oil, and optional spicy and cheesy toppings, perfect for comforting meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown sausage in 1/4 cup olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the remaining olive oil and garlic; sauté until fragrant and sausage is browned; set aside.
- Cook broccoli until tender, either fresh or frozen.
- Cook small shells or cavatelli until al dente, then drain.
- Combine cooked broccoli and shells in a large bowl.
- Drizzle with sausage and olive oil mixture and toss gently.
- Add crushed hot pepper to taste and grated Italian cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using spicy Italian sausage. If you prefer a lighter dish, turkey sausage is a great substitute. To make this recipe vegetarian, replace the sausage with mushrooms or a plant-based sausage. Add some crushed red pepper flakes for added heat or toss in some sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor. Be sure to not overcook the broccoli to maintain its vibrant color and nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the broccoli with shells and sausage warm, garnished with freshly grated Italian cheese for an extra touch. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving with Italian recipes featuring roasted vegetables or a light tomato sauce. A glass of white wine can also complement the flavors beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil or a little water to prevent the pasta from drying out. You can reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can still be satisfying as leftovers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli With Shells And Sausage contains roughly 810 calories, with 10g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (22% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 881mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the dish. Frozen broccoli is a convenient option and will work well in this recipe, ensuring you still get that vibrant green color and good texture.
What kind of cheese is best to use?
For this dish, freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese works best, as they add a nice salty flavor that complements the sausage. You can also experiment with mozzarella or a mix of Italian cheeses for a creamier texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Cook the sausage, broccoli, and pasta separately, then combine them just before serving. This helps maintain the textures. Store the components separately in the fridge and assemble them when you're ready to enjoy this hearty meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).