Pasta with Sausage and Red-Sauce-Braised Broccoli Rabe

Indulge in the flavorful harmony of classic Italian pairing, Pasta with Sausage and Red-Sauce-Braised Broccoli Rabe. While broccoli rabe and sausage are a timeless duo, we elevate this dish by braising the broccoli rabe in a luscious marinara sauce. The bitterness and complexity of the broccoli rabe are artfully woven into the sauce as it slowly simmers, creating a truly irresistible combination. The secret to this dish is allowing the broccoli rabe to cook down until it becomes ultra-tender, infusing every bite with rich flavors. This is not a recipe for al dente vegetables; we want the rabe to shine with its vibrant flavors.

SERVES 4 TO 6

INGREDIENTS:

• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 pound hot Italian sausage, preferably homemade (casings removed if necessary)
• 1 pound broccoli rabe, trimmed and roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
• 2 medium cloves garlic, minced or grated on a Microplane (about 2 teaspoons)
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• Pinch of red pepper flakes
• One 28-ounce can whole tomatoes packed in juice, crushed by hand or with a potato masher into rough ½-inch chunks
• 1 stem fresh basil (optional)
• Kosher salt
• 1 pound orecchiette or other small cupped pasta such as shells, or penne
• Grated Parmigiano-Reggiano for serving

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Prepare the Sausage and Broccoli Rabe: In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over high heat until lightly smoking. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon or potato masher, and cook until no longer pink, approximately 5 minutes. Incorporate the chopped broccoli rabe and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted, about 3 minutes. Transfer the sausage and broccoli rabe to a large bowl and set aside.
2. Create the Marinara Sauce: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the butter to the saucepan. Heat over medium-high heat until the butter has melted, and the foaming subsides. Stir in the finely diced onion and cook, stirring frequently, until softened but not browned, around 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant, approximately 1 minute. Introduce the crushed tomatoes (with their juice) and the fresh basil, if using. Return the sausage and broccoli rabe to the pan, bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 30 minutes, ensuring the broccoli rabe becomes tender. If the sauce thickens too much, add a little water to maintain the desired consistency. Season the sauce with salt to taste, and keep it warm while you cook the pasta.
3. Cook the Pasta: Place the pasta in a large pot and cover with hot water. Add a generous pinch of salt and bring to a boil over high heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Continue cooking until the pasta is fully softened but still has a slight bite in the center (approximately 1 minute less than the package recommends after reaching a boil). Drain the pasta, reserving 1½ cups of the cooking liquid, and return it to the pot.
4. Combine and Serve: Pour the flavorful sausage and broccoli rabe marinara sauce over the pasta and stir to combine. Add some of the reserved pasta water as necessary to achieve the desired sauce consistency. Serve the Pasta with Sausage and Red-Sauce-Braised Broccoli Rabe immediately, accompanied by grated Parmigiano-Reggiano for added richness. Each mouthful is a delectable symphony of spicy sausage, tender broccoli rabe, and hearty pasta, all enveloped in a luscious marinara sauce. Enjoy this delightful and comforting Italian dish, brimming with bold flavors and the warmth of a home-cooked meal.

Pasta with Sausage and Red-Sauce-Braised Broccoli Rabe is a delightful celebration of traditional Italian flavors and culinary artistry. While broccoli rabe and sausage are a timeless combination, our unique twist involves braising the broccoli rabe in a rich marinara sauce, creating a luxurious and savory experience. Allow the broccoli rabe to cook down until it reaches its ultra-tender state, enriching the sauce with its complex flavors. Each bite of this delectable dish encapsulates the essence of Italy, with the spicy notes of sausage complementing the bitterness of the broccoli rabe, all harmoniously brought together by the zesty marinara sauce. Savor the comfort and heartiness of this wholesome meal, as you indulge in the flavorful union of tender broccoli rabe, succulent sausage, and perfectly cooked pasta. This Pasta with Sausage and Red-Sauce-Braised Broccoli Rabe recipe will undoubtedly become a beloved addition to your Italian culinary repertoire. Serve it to your family and friends, and let the scrumptious flavors transport them to the heart of Italy with every mouthful.