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The key to a great broccoli and sausage pasta recipe lies in choosing fresh and vibrant ingredients. First, you need pasta. I like penne, but any small pasta works. It holds the sauce well and mixes easily with other ingredients.

Broccoli and Sausage Pasta

Bring your family together with Broccoli and Sausage Pasta, a flavorful family meal that's easy to make on busy weeknights! Packed with fresh veggies, savory sausage, and delicious pesto, this dish offers endless variations to keep it exciting. Learn the essential ingredients and cooking techniques that guarantee a perfect pasta every time. Click through to explore this tasty recipe and discover creative ways to elevate your family dinners!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz penne pasta

2 cups broccoli florets

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 large onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

8 oz Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice), casings removed

1/2 cup homemade or store-bought basil pesto

1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. In the last 3 minutes of cooking time, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

    Sauté the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

      Cook the Sausage: Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. If there's excess fat, you can drain it.

        Combine Ingredients: Reduce heat to low, and add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the sausage. Add the basil pesto and cherry tomatoes, mixing everything together. If the pasta seems dry, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.

          Season and Serve: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 2 minutes, until everything is heated through.

            Garnish and Plate: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 30 min | 4 servings