Sausage and Leek Orecchiette

Name: Sausage and Leek Orecchiette
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz orecchiette pasta; 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed; 2 leeks, cleaned and sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Taste Adventures

Savor the delightful combination of savory sausage and tender leeks in this comforting orecchiette dish.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-02T19:46:02.684Z

This Sausage and Leek Orecchiette recipe brings together the rich flavors of Italian sausage and the subtle sweetness of leeks. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying with a perfect balance of flavors
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
Comfort food at its finest, great for sharing with loved ones

      

The Perfect Pasta Pairing

Orecchiette, known for its ear-like shape, is the perfect vehicle for capturing the rich flavors of this dish. Its unique texture allows the pasta to hold onto the savory sausage and creamy broth, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. This Italian staple is not only delicious but also adds a comforting element to your meal. Whether you're a pasta aficionado or a casual cook, orecchiette elevates this dish to new heights.

Pairing orecchiette with the right ingredients is essential for a harmonious meal. The combination of succulent Italian sausage and tender leeks creates a delightful contrast in both taste and texture. As the leeks caramelize, they release their natural sweetness, which complements the savory notes of the sausage beautifully. This dish is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special.

A Comforting Classic

Sausage and Leek Orecchiette is a classic comfort dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. Perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, this recipe embraces the essence of home-cooked meals. The heartiness of the sausage combined with the mild flavor of leeks makes it a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both young and old alike.

Comfort food often evokes nostalgia, and this dish is no exception. It reminds us of family dinners and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. The creamy texture and savory depth make it a dish that you'll want to revisit time and again, creating new memories around the dinner table.

Quick and Easy Weeknight Meals

In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a wholesome meal can be challenging. This Sausage and Leek Orecchiette recipe is designed with busy schedules in mind. With just a few simple steps and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious dinner on the table in under 30 minutes. It's a perfect solution for those hectic weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

The versatility of this dish also allows for easy customization. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or switch up the protein to suit your tastes. This flexibility not only keeps mealtime interesting but also encourages you to get creative with your cooking. With this recipe in your arsenal, you'll be prepared for any weeknight dinner challenge.

Ingredients

Gather all the necessary ingredients before you start cooking.

Main Ingredients

12 oz orecchiette pasta
1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
2 leeks, cleaned and sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go for a seamless cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious meal.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the orecchiette according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Sausage

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.

Add the Leeks and Garlic

Add the sliced leeks and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the leeks are soft, about 5 minutes.

Combine with Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Mix in the Pasta

Add the cooked orecchiette to the skillet and toss to combine. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your Sausage and Leek Orecchiette!

Enjoy your meal with a side salad or some crusty bread!

Tips for Perfecting Your Orecchiette

To achieve the perfect al dente texture, make sure to follow the package instructions carefully when cooking your orecchiette. Keep a close eye on the pasta during the last few minutes of cooking, as it can go from perfectly cooked to overdone quickly. A quick taste test will help you determine the ideal doneness, ensuring that your pasta remains firm and holds up well in the dish.

Another tip is to reserve a bit of pasta water before draining. This starchy water can be added to your sauce if it seems too thick, helping to create a silky, cohesive dish. It’s a simple trick that can make a big difference in the overall texture of your meal.

Serving Suggestions

For an added touch of flavor, consider serving your Sausage and Leek Orecchiette with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. The crunchy texture of garlic bread complements the creamy pasta, while a salad adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish. Together, they create a well-rounded meal that's satisfying and enjoyable.

Don’t forget to offer extra Parmesan cheese at the table! A sprinkle of freshly grated cheese on top enhances the dish's flavor and adds a delightful creaminess. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as Pecorino Romano or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, allowing guests to customize their plates to their liking.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, storing them properly is key to maintaining their flavor and texture. Place any uneaten Sausage and Leek Orecchiette in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can last up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week.

When it comes to reheating, a gentle approach is best. Heat the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or olive oil to restore moisture. Stir occasionally until warmed through, ensuring that the flavors remain vibrant and the dish doesn’t dry out. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meal even days later!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute with any pasta you prefer, but orecchiette works best for this recipe.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the sausage with a plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with Sausage and Leek Orecchiette.