Name: Creamy Sausage, Broccoli, and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1/2 lb Italian sausage (hot or mild); 1/2 cup diced yellow onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 ½ cups heavy cream; 2 ½ cups small broccoli florets; 2 cups uncooked small pasta; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Basil for garnish

Description

Indulge in the flavors of Italy with this creamy sausage, broccoli, and sun-dried tomato pasta. This one-pan meal is not only delightful in taste but also perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner. Combining the savory depth of Italian sausage, the crisp freshness of broccoli, and the tangy burst from sun-dried tomatoes, each forkful is lush and creamy. Ideal for busy weeknights or a comforting meal at home, this dish promises to satisfy your cravings for something hearty yet straightforward.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2 lb Italian sausage (hot or mild)
1/2 cup diced yellow onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 ½ cups heavy cream
2 ½ cups small broccoli florets
2 cups uncooked small pasta
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Basil for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Sausage Base: In a large skillet, cook the sausage and onion over medium-high heat until the sausage is browned and no longer pink. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Remove the meat mixture with a slotted spoon to a plate, draining excess fat but retaining about 1 tablespoon in the skillet for further cooking.
Combine and Cook the Ingredients: Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, broccoli, pasta, and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer. Stir occasionally, making sure to replace the lid quickly each time.
Monitor Cooking Progress: Cook the mixture at a low simmer for 7-9 minutes. If the pasta isn’t tender by this time, add more liquid as needed and continue to cook until the desired tenderness is achieved. If you prefer crisper broccoli, consider adding it about halfway through the simmering process.
Final Touches: Reintroduce the meat mixture to the skillet, stirring to incorporate. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through until everything is well combined and the cheese is melted.
Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, garnish with fresh basil to add a touch of color and an extra layer of flavor. Serve hot directly from the skillet.