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The broccoli and sausage pasta recipe shines with simple and fresh ingredients. First, I choose penne pasta. Its tubular shape holds sauce well. You can also use other pasta types like rotini or farfalle. Each adds its unique touch.

Broccoli and Sausage Pasta

Looking for an easy meal that the whole family will love? Broccoli and sausage pasta is the perfect solution! This delicious dish combines hearty Italian sausage, fresh broccoli, and flavorful ingredients for a nutritious dinner that's ready in just 25 minutes. Discover key cooking tips and fun variations to customize your meal. Click through to explore this irresistible recipe and impress your loved ones with a tasty, one-pot dinner!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz (340g) penne pasta

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (Italian chicken or turkey sausage works great for a lighter option)

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 large head of broccoli, cut into small florets

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

½ cup vegetable broth

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

¼ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water.

    Sauté the Sausage: In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Remove the sausage from its casings and crumble it into the pot. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.

      Add Garlic and Broccoli: Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, add the broccoli florets and cherry tomatoes to the pot. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, until the broccoli is tender and bright green.

        Create the Sauce: Pour in the vegetable broth and stir well, scraping any bits off the bottom of the pot. If using, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for about 3 minutes to meld the flavors.

          Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked penne pasta back into the pot. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to create a creamier sauce consistency. Mix in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.

            Taste and Adjust: Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning as needed.

              Serve: Divide the pasta among plates. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 mins | 25 mins | Serves 4

                  - Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, serve the pasta in shallow bowls, sprinkle with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil. Add a basil leaf on top for a pop of green color.