Spicy Sausage & Fennel Orecchiette Recipe

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a bowl of pasta that’s packed with bold flavors yet feels effortlessly homey. Spicy Sausage & Fennel Orecchiette is a dish that perfectly balances heat, savory richness, and the subtle sweetness of fennel. Ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner or an intimate weekend gathering, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable culinary experience.

Inspired by the rustic kitchens of Southern Italy, where orecchiette pasta is traditionally paired with hearty meats and aromatic vegetables, this dish celebrates authentic flavors in a modern, accessible way. The combination of spicy sausage and fennel creates a symphony of taste, while the orecchiette’s unique cup-like shape captures every bit of sauce, making each bite a delight. Whether you’re looking to impress friends at a dinner party or simply indulge in a comforting homemade meal, this recipe is a must-try.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces orecchiette pasta

• 1 pound spicy Beef sausage

• 1 large fennel bulb, thinly sliced

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The salt is essential, as it seasons the pasta from the inside out, enhancing every bite. Once the water is boiling, add the orecchiette and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 9-11 minutes, until the pasta is al dente—tender but still firm to the bite. While the pasta cooks, reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining. This water will be a key ingredient later to help create a silky, cohesive sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside, keeping it warm while you prepare the sauce.

2. Prepare the sausage: While the pasta is cooking, place a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Allow the oil to warm for about a minute, then add the spicy Beef sausage, removing it from its casing if necessary. Break the sausage apart using a wooden spoon or spatula to ensure even browning. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is fully cooked through and lightly caramelized on the edges. Browning the sausage not only locks in its juices but also develops a rich, savory flavor that will enhance the entire dish. Once the sausage is cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer it to a plate and set aside, leaving any rendered fat in the skillet for the vegetables.

3. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and thinly sliced fennel. The fennel adds a subtle sweetness that balances the spiciness of the sausage, creating a harmonious flavor profile. Cook the vegetables over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure they soften evenly and begin to caramelize. Caramelization intensifies the natural flavors of the onions and fennel, adding depth to the dish. After the vegetables have softened, add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic, which can turn bitter. This step layers in aromatic flavors that will infuse every bite of the pasta.

4. Deglaze the pan: Pour in 1/2 cup of chicken or vegetable broth to deglaze the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan—these are packed with flavor and will enrich your sauce. Bring the broth to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced. This reduction concentrates the flavors and creates a subtle, savory base for the pasta sauce. The combination of the sausage, caramelized vegetables, and simmered broth forms the heart of the dish’s flavor.

5. Combine pasta and sausage: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, gently tossing it with the sautéed vegetables and broth. Then, add the drained orecchiette pasta. Toss everything together carefully, making sure the pasta is coated evenly with the flavorful mixture. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time, to loosen the sauce and help it adhere to the pasta. The starchy water emulsifies with the fat from the sausage and the broth, creating a silky, luscious sauce that clings beautifully to each piece of orecchiette. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.

6. Finish with cheese and seasoning: Sprinkle in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring gently to combine. The Parmesan adds a rich, nutty flavor and a creamy texture that elevates the dish without overpowering it. Allow the pasta to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes over low heat to ensure the flavors meld together harmoniously. This step helps every ingredient—sausage, fennel, garlic, and cheese—integrate fully, creating a balanced and flavorful final dish.

7. Serve and garnish: To serve, divide the pasta evenly among individual plates or bowls. Top with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness that brightens the dish. Optionally, sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top for extra richness. Serve immediately while warm to enjoy the full depth of flavors and the comforting texture of perfectly cooked orecchiette. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or crusty bread to complete a satisfying meal.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

• Yield: 4 servings

Notes

• Adjusting spice levels: Reduce or increase red pepper flakes depending on your heat preference. For a milder dish, omit entirely.

• Vegetarian variation: Substitute sausage with plant-based sausage or roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian-friendly version.

• Pasta options: While orecchiette is traditional and ideal for capturing sauce, penne or cavatappi can be used in a pinch.

• Make-ahead tip: You can prepare the sausage and fennel mixture up to a day in advance. Reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture.

Tips for Perfect Spicy Sausage & Fennel Orecchiette

1. Cook pasta al dente: Orecchiette is best when slightly firm to the bite, allowing it to hold the sauce and ingredients well.

2. Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Cooking the sausage in batches ensures even browning and maximum flavor.

3. Layer flavors: Browning the sausage and caramelizing the fennel and onions builds depth and complexity in the dish.

4. Use fresh ingredients: Fresh fennel, garlic, and Parmesan make a noticeable difference in flavor.

5. Finish with fresh herbs: Parsley or even a sprinkle of basil adds brightness and a fresh aroma, elevating the final dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Spicy Sausage & Fennel Orecchiette is more than just a pasta dish—it’s an experience. Each bite offers the perfect balance of heat from the sausage, subtle sweetness from fennel, and the comforting bite of tender orecchiette. The recipe is versatile, easy to prepare, and can be adapted for dietary preferences, making it ideal for families, weeknight dinners, or casual entertaining.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a few high-quality ingredients, you can create a meal that feels restaurant-worthy but is achievable in your own kitchen. The combination of textures—from the crisp fennel to the tender pasta—keeps every bite interesting, while the aroma fills your home with the warmth of Italian-inspired flavors.

Pairing Suggestions

• Side Salad: A crisp arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.

• Bread: Serve with crusty garlic bread or focaccia to soak up any remaining sauce.

• Beverages: Sparkling water, herbal iced tea, or a light fruit punch enhances the meal without overpowering it.

Serving Ideas

• Family Dinner: Serve family-style in a large pasta bowl with extra Parmesan on the side.

• Dinner Party: Pair with a simple appetizer like bruschetta or roasted vegetables to create a well-rounded menu.

• Meal Prep: Divide into individual containers for an easy, flavorful lunch option that reheats well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is fennel necessary?
Fennel plays a crucial role in this recipe, adding a subtle sweetness and a delicate, slightly licorice-like flavor that balances the heat from the sausage. However, if you don’t have fennel on hand, don’t worry—you can substitute with thinly sliced celery, bell peppers, or even leeks for a slightly different but equally delicious flavor profile. Keep in mind that the texture and sweetness will vary slightly, but the dish will still be flavorful and satisfying.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! For those avoiding gluten, simply swap the traditional orecchiette with a gluten-free pasta of your choice. Cooking times may vary depending on the brand and type of pasta, so it’s best to follow the package instructions and taste for doneness. The sauce and sausage mixture remain the same, so you won’t lose any of the rich, layered flavors of the dish.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Definitely. The sausage and fennel mixture can be cooked in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day. Keep the pasta separate until you’re ready to serve, then toss everything together just before eating. This ensures the pasta retains its perfect texture and the sauce clings beautifully, giving you a fresh, homemade meal with minimal effort when it’s time to eat.

Spicy Sausage & Fennel Orecchiette Recipe

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• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A hearty, flavorful pasta dish that combines spicy sausage with the subtle sweetness of fennel, perfectly coated in a silky sauce and finished with Parmesan cheese. Ideal for cozy weeknight dinners or casual dinner parties, this recipe brings the rustic charm of Italian cooking to your table with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 ounces orecchiette pasta

• 1 pound spicy Beef sausage

• 1 large fennel bulb, thinly sliced

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add orecchiette and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sausage, breaking it apart, and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

• In the same skillet, add onion and fennel. Cook 5-7 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking 1 more minute until fragrant.

• Pour in chicken or vegetable broth to deglaze the skillet, scraping up browned bits. Simmer 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.

• Return cooked sausage to the skillet, then add drained pasta. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water gradually to create a silky sauce.

• Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. Cook 1-2 minutes to meld flavors.

• Divide pasta among plates. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

• Adjust spice levels with more or fewer red pepper flakes according to taste.

• Substitute fennel with celery or bell peppers if unavailable.

• Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version; adjust cooking time accordingly.

• Sausage and fennel mixture can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Combine with freshly cooked pasta just before serving.

• Extra vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or spinach can be added for variety and color.

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of broth to maintain moisture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes

Michelle Davis