Pasta with Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Recipe You Need to Try

If you want a meal that packs bold flavors without a complicated process, this spicy sausage and broccoli rabe skillet is exactly what you need. It’s a one-pan dish that combines the bitterness of broccoli rabe with the rich, spicy notes of Italian sausage. Whether you serve it over pasta, on toasted bread, or enjoy it straight from the pan, this recipe delivers satisfying comfort with a fresh, garlicky punch.

Spicy sausage and broccoli rabe skillet ready to serve

Why Broccoli Rabe and Spicy Sausage Work So Well Together

Broccoli rabe has a distinct, slightly bitter flavor that can be off-putting if not prepared correctly. Parboiling it softens the bitterness and makes it more approachable. When combined with spicy Italian sausage, the bitterness balances perfectly with the sausage’s rich, savory, and slightly spicy profile. The garlic and olive oil add depth, while the chicken broth helps everything meld together into a harmonious dish.

This combination is a classic in Italian-American cooking but remains underappreciated in everyday home kitchens. Once you try it, you’ll see why it deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1lb pasta - I use orecchiette or cavatelli

• 1 bunch broccoli rabe

• 1 lb spicy Italian sausage (casings removed)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, chopped

• ½ cup chicken broth

• Salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste

• Grated parmesan

  
  

Each ingredient plays a crucial role. The spicy sausage brings heat and richness, while the broccoli rabe adds a fresh, green bite. Garlic infuses the dish with aromatic flavor, and the chicken broth ties everything together with moisture and subtle savoriness.

Step-by-Step Directions for the Perfect Skillet

1. Brown the sausage

   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the sausage and set it aside, leaving the flavorful oil in the pan.

   
   

2. Parboil the broccoli rabe

   Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli rabe and cook for 2-3 minutes. This step reduces bitterness and softens the greens. Drain and set aside.

   
   

3. Sauté the garlic

   In the same skillet that had the sausage oil, add about 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the chopped garlic. Cook over medium heat until golden and fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will turn bitter.

   
   

4. Cook the broccoli rabe

   Add the drained broccoli rabe to the skillet. Stir and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the greens to soften and absorb the garlic and sausage oil flavors. Add salt, pepper and garlic powder.

   
   

5. Combine sausage and broth

   Return the browned sausage to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth and stir everything together. Let it simmer until the broth reduces by half and the flavors meld, about 5-7 minutes.

   
   

6. While that simmering cook your pasta

   Cook your pasta in salt water according to the box. Add pasta and just about half a cup of the pasta water to the broccoli rabe and sausage mixture. Mix.

   
   

7. Season and serve

   Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes for extra heat if desired. Don't forget to top with grated parmesan!

   
   

Tips to Make This Dish Even Better

• Choose quality sausage: The flavor of the sausage is key. Look for spicy Italian sausage with good seasoning and natural casings for the best texture.

• Don’t skip parboiling: This step is essential to tame the bitterness of broccoli rabe and make it more enjoyable.

• Add a squeeze of lemon: A little lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the richness.

• Use fresh garlic: Freshly chopped garlic gives the best flavor compared to pre-minced or powdered garlic.

• Customize the heat: Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder version.

  
  

Serving Suggestions That Elevate the Meal

This skillet is versatile. Here are some ideas to make it a complete meal:

• Over pasta: Toss with cooked pasta like orecchiette or penne for a hearty dinner.

• On toasted bread: Spoon the mixture onto crusty bread for a rustic open-faced sandwich.

• With a fried egg: Top with a sunny-side-up egg for extra richness and protein.

• Alongside polenta: Creamy polenta pairs beautifully with the spicy sausage and greens.

  
  

Why You Should Try This Recipe Tonight

This spicy sausage and broccoli rabe skillet is a simple way to enjoy bold, balanced flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a one-pan meal that feels special but comes together quickly. The combination of spicy sausage, garlicky greens, and savory broth is satisfying and comforting.

If you want a dish that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and flexible enough to serve in different ways, this recipe is a must-try. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or anytime you crave something hearty and fresh.