Sausage and Leek Orecchiette

Name: Sausage and Leek Orecchiette
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 400g orecchiette pasta; Salt (for pasta water); 300g Italian sausage, casings removed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 leeks, cleaned and sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 200ml chicken broth; 50g grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Warm Plates

Delight in the comforting flavors of Sausage and Leek Orecchiette, a pasta dish that combines savory sausage with tender leeks for a satisfying meal.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-02T17:28:02.367Z

This delicious Sausage and Leek Orecchiette recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner. The combination of flavors creates a hearty dish that is both comforting and satisfying.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and savory flavors that come together beautifully
Hearty pasta that holds up well with the sauce
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners

      

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

Sausage and Leek Orecchiette is a delightful dish that perfectly balances rich, savory flavors with the subtle sweetness of leeks. The Italian sausage brings a hearty depth, while the leeks provide a mild, onion-like flavor that complements the meat beautifully. This combination creates a harmonious blend that is both comforting and satisfying, making it a go-to meal for any pasta lover.

The addition of garlic and optional red pepper flakes adds an aromatic touch and a hint of spice, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish. The garlic infuses the sauce with warmth, while the red pepper flakes offer a kick that can be adjusted according to your taste. This flexibility allows you to customize the dish to suit your family's preferences.

Orecchiette: The Ideal Pasta Shape

Orecchiette, meaning 'little ears' in Italian, is the perfect pasta shape for this dish. Its unique shape and slightly chewy texture make it an ideal vessel for holding sauces. Each bite is a delightful mix of pasta and sauce, ensuring that every forkful is packed with flavor.

Moreover, orecchiette pairs exceptionally well with both light and robust sauces. In this recipe, the pasta's ability to catch and cling to the savory sausage and leek sauce enhances the overall dining experience. Whether you're serving a casual family dinner or entertaining guests, orecchiette elevates the dish with its charming shape and hearty texture.

A Quick and Wholesome Meal

One of the standout features of Sausage and Leek Orecchiette is its quick preparation time, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under 30 minutes. This efficiency does not compromise flavor or satisfaction, allowing you to enjoy a homemade pasta dish without the hassle.

This recipe also offers the flexibility to incorporate seasonal vegetables or substitute different types of sausage to suit your dietary preferences. Feel free to experiment with flavors, adding greens like spinach or kale for extra nutrition. This adaptability makes Sausage and Leek Orecchiette a versatile choice for any home cook looking to create wholesome meals effortlessly.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

400g orecchiette pasta
Salt (for pasta water)

For the Sauce

300g Italian sausage, casings removed
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 leeks, cleaned and sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
200ml chicken broth
50g grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orecchiette pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Add the leeks and garlic, sautéing until the leeks are tender.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Stir in the red pepper flakes (if using) and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, then add the cooked orecchiette. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.

Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results, always cook the pasta until it's al dente. This ensures that the pasta maintains its texture when combined with the sauce. Remember to reserve some pasta water; it's a great way to adjust the consistency of your sauce without diluting the flavor.

When cooking the sausage, don't rush the browning process. Giving the sausage time to caramelize will enhance its flavor and provide a deeper richness to the sauce. Stir occasionally and break up the sausage into smaller pieces for even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Sausage and Leek Orecchiette pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables on the side. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta dish, balancing the meal perfectly.

For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, consider serving with garlic bread or a crusty baguette. This not only complements the flavors of the dish but also offers a delightful way to soak up any remaining sauce on your plate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta will work well in this recipe.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the sausage with a plant-based sausage or mushrooms.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.