This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
This Sausage and Broccoli Pasta recipe is a quick, creamy, and comforting dinner that comes together in just 15 minutes.
With tender orecchiette, savory Italian sausage, crisp broccoli, and a rich mascarpone sauce, it’s the kind of meal that feels special without any complicated steps.
Like my taco stuffed shells or meatless baked ziti, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want something homemade and satisfying but don’t want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen.
Simple ingredients, fast cooking, and big flavor make this sausage and broccoli pasta recipe a go-to recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
For more quick dinner recipes, check out Easy Baked Parmesan Chicken, French Onion Meatballs, and Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies.
Why You’ll Love Sausage and Broccoli Pasta
- Fast and easy: Ready in just 15 minutes from start to finish.
- Creamy and comforting: Mascarpone creates a smooth, luxurious sauce without extra effort.
- Balanced and flavorful: Savory sausage and fresh broccoli make it hearty and satisfying.
Ingredients
Find the full list of ingredients, amounts, and instructions in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Orecchiette Pasta: Holds the creamy sauce beautifully in every bite.
- Italian Sausage: Adds rich, savory flavor to the dish.
- Broccoli Florets: Bring freshness, texture, and balance.
- Mascarpone Cheese: Creates a creamy, velvety sauce without heavy cream.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds salty, nutty depth to finish the dish.
How to Make Sausage and Broccoli Pasta
Here are the step-by-step instructions for making this easy baked chicken parmesan recipe:
Step 1: Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the orecchiette for 9 minutes.
Step 2: While the pasta cooks, brown the sausage in a pan over medium heat, about 3–4 minutes.
Step 3: Add the diced shallot to the sausage and sauté for about 2 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, if using.
Step 4: When the pasta has about 4 minutes left to cook, add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water. Cook for 2 minutes.
Step 5: Using a strainer or ladle, remove the broccoli and transfer it directly to the pan with the sausage. Stir to combine.
Step 6: Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Add the mascarpone cheese and stir until fully melted and creamy.
Step 7: Add the pasta to the sausage and broccoli mixture. Toss everything together until well combined.
Step 8: Top with Parmesan cheese. Serve warm and enjoy.
Tips for Success
- Reserve a little pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce.
- Use mild or spicy sausage depending on your heat preference.
- Red pepper flakes are optional but add a nice kick if you enjoy a bit of spice.
How to Store
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes—short pasta like shells, penne, or fusilli works well.
You can, but mascarpone gives the smoothest, mildest flavor.
Absolutely—just skip the red pepper flakes for a milder version.
More Easy Dinner Recipes
- Ground Beef Sheet Pan Quesadillas
- Chili Cornbread Casserole
- Skillet Lasagna
- Rotisserie Chicken Tacos
- Chicken Apple Sausage Sheet Pan Dinner
If you make this sausage and broccoli pasta recipe and enjoy it, please leave a comment with a 5-star recipe rating and let me know! Thank you!
Sausage and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Equipment
- Medium pot
- Large pan
- Strainer
Ingredients
- 2 cups orecchiette pasta
- 16 oz mild Italian sausage
- 1 shallot, diced (about ¼ cup)
- 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, optional depending on heat preference
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Place orecchiette in a pot of boiling water and begin to cook for 9 minutes.
- Meanwhile, place sausage in a pan on medium heat and cook until browned. (About 3 – 4 minutes) Add in diced shallot, saute for about 2 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes.
- When the pasta has 4 minutes remaining to boil add in the broccoli florets to the pasta water. Allow to cook for 2 minutes.
- With a strainer or ladle, remove the broccoli florets and place directly into the pan with the sausage. Mix to combine.
- When the pasta is done cooking, drain and add mascarpone cheese directly into the pot with the pasta. Mix until the cheese has fully melted.
- Add pasta into the pan with the sausage and broccoli, mix to combine.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese and serve.
Notes
- Reserve a little pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce.
- Use mild or spicy sausage depending on your heat preference.
- Red pepper flakes are optional but add a nice kick if you enjoy a bit of spice.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
