Sausage and Leek Orecchiette

Name: Sausage and Leek Orecchiette
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g orecchiette pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 400g Italian sausage, casings removed; 2 leeks, cleaned and sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Hearty Home Cooking

Savor the delightful combination of savory sausage and tender leeks in this comforting orecchiette dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-02T19:10:03.164Z

This Sausage and Leek Orecchiette is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage with the subtle sweetness of leeks, all enveloped in tender, ear-shaped pasta. It’s a family favorite that’s both comforting and satisfying.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich flavors of Italian sausage blended with sweet leeks
Easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
Comforting and hearty, ideal for any occasion

      

A Perfect Weeknight Meal

Sausage and Leek Orecchiette is an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner, combining simplicity with rich flavors. The hearty nature of this dish means it's satisfying without requiring hours of preparation. The ingredients come together quickly, making it an excellent option for busy evenings when time is short but the desire for a delicious meal remains high.

In just under 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table, allowing you to spend more time with family or unwind after a long day. The comforting combination of sausage and leeks creates a dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome, making it perfect for any occasion.

Flavorful Ingredients

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the Italian sausage, which infuses the orecchiette with a rich, savory flavor profile. Paired with the sweet, tender leeks, this combination creates a beautiful balance of tastes that will delight your palate. Adding garlic enhances the dish’s aroma and depth, making it irresistible to anyone who walks into your kitchen.

The addition of heavy cream and chicken broth creates a luscious sauce that clings to each piece of pasta, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. The use of fresh parsley as a garnish not only adds a pop of color but also a refreshing note that brightens the overall dish.

Versatility and Customization

One of the great things about Sausage and Leek Orecchiette is its versatility. While the recipe calls for Italian sausage, you can easily substitute it with chicken sausage or even a plant-based alternative for a lighter or vegetarian dish. This flexibility allows you to cater to various dietary preferences while still enjoying the comforting flavors of this pasta dish.

Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or peas, to enhance the nutritional value and add even more texture. This recipe serves as a wonderful base that encourages creativity in the kitchen, allowing you to make it your own.

Ingredients

For the Orecchiette

300g orecchiette pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
400g Italian sausage, casings removed
2 leeks, cleaned and sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Gather all the ingredients before starting your cooking process.

Instructions

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 the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Leeks and Garlic

Add the sliced leeks and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the leeks are soft, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to thicken slightly. Add the cooked orecchiette to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Divide the orecchiette among plates, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious Sausage and Leek Orecchiette!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, storing them is simple! Place the orecchiette in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back its creamy consistency.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Portion it out in freezer-safe containers, and it can last up to three months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating, ensuring the best texture and flavor.

Pairing Suggestions

When it comes to pairing drinks with Sausage and Leek Orecchiette, a light-bodied red wine, such as a Pinot Noir, complements the flavors beautifully. The wine’s subtle earthiness enhances the savory notes of the sausage while not overpowering the dish’s delicate sweetness from the leeks.

For a non-alcoholic option, consider serving the pasta with a sparkling water infused with lemon or lime. The refreshing citrus notes will brighten the meal and cleanse the palate, making every bite even more enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape will work, but orecchiette is traditional for this dish.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it when you're ready to eat.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your sausage is gluten-free as well.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs nicely with this meal.