Name: Orecchiette with Sausage and Spinach
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces uncooked orecchiette pasta; 16 ounces Italian sausage (see note); 1/2 medium onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 3 cups fresh baby spinach (packed); 2 tablespoons fresh basil (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; For serving: freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

This easy Orecchiette with Sausage and Spinach recipe combines flavorful Italian sausage, fresh spinach, and tender pasta tossed in a light white wine sauce. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners, this dish offers a balanced blend of protein and greens with simple ingredients you can find at any grocery store. The addition of garlic, Dijon mustard, and optional fresh basil enhances the savory taste, while Parmesan cheese adds a creamy finish. Ideal for busy cooks looking for a comforting, hearty meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

8 ounces uncooked orecchiette pasta
16 ounces Italian sausage (see note)
1/2 medium onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 cup dry white wine
3 cups fresh baby spinach (packed)
2 tablespoons fresh basil (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
For serving: freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orecchiette pasta until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage (removed from casings) and chopped onion. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is cooked through and nicely browned.
If there is excess fat in the skillet (more than 1-2 tablespoons), carefully spoon some out, leaving enough to cook the garlic and flavor the dish.
Reduce heat to medium. Stir in minced garlic and Dijon mustard, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the white wine and simmer until reduced by half, about 1-2 minutes.
Add the fresh spinach and basil (if using) to the skillet. Toss until the spinach wilts down.
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together to combine well.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This orecchiette dish balances savory Italian sausage with fresh spinach, creating a hearty yet vibrant meal. The white wine adds a subtle depth, while Dijon mustard brings a hint of tangy complexity. It’s a simple, flavorful dinner perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Tips

Use mild or spicy Italian sausage depending on your heat preference.
To avoid excess grease, drain some fat after browning the sausage but keep enough for flavor.
Fresh spinach wilts quickly; add it last to maintain its bright color and nutrients.

Variations and Substitutions

Swap orecchiette with other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli.
Replace white wine with chicken broth or vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Use kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a different leafy green option.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
Yes, but reduce cooking time and add fresh garlic and mustard after reheating.

What if I don’t have fresh basil?
Dried basil works but add less—about 1 teaspoon—to avoid overpowering the dish.

Can I make this ahead?
Yes, but toss the pasta and spinach fresh just before serving for best texture and flavor.

Serving

Serve this pasta warm, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad.

Suggestions

Pair this meal with a light white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. For a fuller meal, add roasted vegetables or a side of garlic sautéed mushrooms.