There's nothing quite like a bowl of orecchiette with sausage and spinach to warm your soul after a busy day. The tender pasta cradles a savory, flavorful sausage mixture, with just the right amount of vibrant spinach for a touch of freshness. Every bite is a delightful blend of textures and tastes, making this dish a perfect choice for any occasion.
I discovered this recipe during a weeknight dinner rush, experimenting with simple ingredients from my pantry and fridge. The result was an instant family favorite, so easy to prepare yet so full of flavor. Let me guide you through creating this satisfying dish.
Why You'll Love This Orecchiette with Sausage and Spinach
Get ready to add this recipe to your list of weeknight staples. Orecchiette with sausage and spinach is not only delicious but also a breeze to whip up, even on the busiest evenings.
First, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for hectic schedules. With minimal prep and just a few steps, you’ll have a hearty meal on the table in no time.
The balance of flavors is simply irresistible. The tender orecchiette pairs beautifully with the savory sausage and the subtle, earthy spinach. A sprinkle of cheese on top takes it to the next level, creating a restaurant-quality dish you can enjoy in the comfort of your home.
This recipe is also incredibly versatile. You can switch up the vegetables or adjust the level of spice to suit your family’s preferences, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
And finally, it’s made with simple, wholesome ingredients. From the pasta to the fresh spinach and perfectly seasoned sausage, each element works together to create a meal that feels both comforting and nutritious.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of this recipe lies in its carefully chosen ingredients. Each one contributes something special, creating a perfectly balanced dish.
Orecchiette pasta is the heart of this recipe. Its unique shape—resembling little ears—makes it ideal for catching the sauce and sausage crumbles. If you can’t find orecchiette, small shells or penne will also work well.
Sausage is the star of the dish, adding bold flavor with every bite. Opt for a mild or spicy chicken or beef sausage, depending on your preference. Remove the casings before cooking to create a crumbly texture that mixes beautifully with the pasta.
Spinach brings a pop of color and freshness. Baby spinach works best as it wilts quickly and evenly. If you prefer, you can substitute kale or arugula for a slightly different flavor profile.
Garlic and onions form the aromatic base of the dish. The garlic adds warmth, while the onions provide a natural sweetness that complements the other ingredients.
Cheese, such as grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano, finishes the dish with a salty, nutty kick. For a dairy-free option, you can use nutritional yeast or skip the cheese entirely without losing too much flavor.
How To Make This Orecchiette with Sausage and Spinach

Making orecchiette with sausage and spinach is a simple process, yet the result feels wonderfully indulgent. Let’s dive into the steps.
Start by cooking the orecchiette in a large pot of boiling, salted water. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining and setting the pasta aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and let it warm. Crumble the sausage into the skillet, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook until it’s browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Transfer the sausage to a plate and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add a touch more olive oil if needed, then toss in the diced onion. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until fragrant.
Return the sausage to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta. Stir to combine, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen everything and create a light sauce. Next, fold in the fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt gently from the heat of the pasta and sausage mixture.
Finish the dish with a generous sprinkle of grated cheese and freshly cracked black pepper. Give it one final stir, then serve immediately while it’s warm and fragrant.
Storage Options
Leftovers of this orecchiette with sausage and spinach are just as delicious the next day. Store them properly, and you’ll have an easy lunch or dinner ready to go.
Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta from drying out. Heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
If you’d like to freeze portions, skip adding the spinach when cooking. Cool the pasta and sausage mixture completely, then freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to two months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, reheat, and stir in fresh spinach.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is endlessly adaptable, so feel free to make it your own. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
For extra veggies, toss in some sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or blistered cherry tomatoes. These additions bring new textures and bursts of flavor to the dish.
Prefer a creamy sauce? Stir in a few tablespoons of cream cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt along with the pasta water for a velvety finish.
If you like a kick of heat, sprinkle in some red chili flakes or use a spicy sausage variety.
To make it heartier, add a handful of cooked chickpeas or white beans for an extra protein boost.
And if you’re out of spinach, substitute with other leafy greens like Swiss chard, arugula, or baby kale. Each brings its own unique flavor to the dish.
This orecchiette with sausage and spinach is your canvas—experiment and enjoy the delicious results!
PrintOrecchiette With Sausage And Spinach Recipe
This orecchiette with sausage and spinach recipe is a simple yet delicious pasta dish loaded with flavorful sausage, fresh spinach, and tender orecchiette. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe comes together quickly and is sure to impress.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 12 oz orecchiette pasta
- 1 lb halal sausage, casing removed
- 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup pasta water (reserved from cooking the pasta)
Instructions
- Cook the orecchiette pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water and drain the rest.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it into small pieces, and cook until browned.
- Add the onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
- Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with the reserved pasta water. Stir to combine and coat the pasta evenly.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using) and season with red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- For added flavor, you can garnish the dish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Substitute Parmesan with a plant-based alternative to make this recipe dairy-free.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (¼ of recipe)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
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