Sausage and Leek Orecchiette

Name: Sausage and Leek Orecchiette
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz orecchiette pasta; 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed; 2 medium leeks, cleaned and sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A delightful pasta dish that combines savory sausage and tender leeks with orecchiette for a comforting meal.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-02T16:54:02.403Z

This Sausage and Leek Orecchiette recipe brings together the rich flavors of sausage with the mild sweetness of leeks, creating a perfect balance in every bite. It's an ideal dish for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Savory sausage brings a hearty flavor to the dish.
Leeks add a subtle sweetness and beautiful color.
Orecchiette pasta perfectly captures the sauce for every delicious bite.

      

The Perfect Pairing of Flavors

Sausage and leeks may not seem like an obvious pairing, but their flavors complement each other beautifully. The rich, savory notes of Italian sausage provide a hearty foundation, while the leeks contribute a delicate sweetness that balances the dish. This harmony of flavors elevates the orecchiette pasta, making each bite an explosion of taste.

Moreover, the addition of garlic infuses the dish with aromatic depth, enhancing the overall experience. As the sausage browns and the leeks soften, your kitchen will fill with a mouthwatering aroma that invites everyone to the table, eager to enjoy this delightful meal.

Why Orecchiette?

Orecchiette, which translates to 'little ears' in Italian, is a pasta shape that is not only fun to eat but also ideal for holding sauces. Its unique shape allows it to capture bits of sausage and leeks, ensuring that every forkful is packed with flavor. This pasta is a staple in Southern Italy and has gained popularity for its versatility and texture.

When combined with the creamy sauce made from chicken broth and heavy cream, orecchiette becomes a luxurious canvas for the hearty ingredients. This dish also offers a delightful chew that contrasts beautifully with the tender leeks and the succulent sausage, creating a well-rounded dining experience.

A Comforting Meal for Any Occasion

Sausage and leek orecchiette is not just a weeknight dinner; it's a dish that can easily transition to special occasions. Whether you're hosting friends or preparing a cozy meal for your family, this pasta dish impresses without requiring hours in the kitchen. It’s quick to prepare, yet feels indulgent, making it perfect for both casual and formal gatherings.

Additionally, this recipe can be customized to suit your dietary preferences. Feel free to substitute the sausage with a meat alternative or use vegetable broth to make it vegetarian. With a few simple adjustments, you can create a dish that caters to everyone’s tastes while still delivering on flavor.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Sausage and Leek Orecchiette

12 oz orecchiette pasta
1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
2 medium leeks, cleaned and sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the orecchiette according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Sausage

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula.

Add the Leeks and Garlic

Stir in the sliced leeks and minced garlic, cooking until the leeks are soft, about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until combined.

Mix in the Pasta

Add the cooked orecchiette to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve warm.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your sausage and leek orecchiette, consider pairing it with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the greens will contrast nicely with the richness of the pasta, making for a balanced meal. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can give the dish an extra kick.

Additionally, serving this dish with crusty garlic bread can help soak up the creamy sauce, ensuring that none of the delicious flavors go to waste. A glass of white wine, like a crisp Pinot Grigio, complements the meal perfectly, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers of the sausage and leek orecchiette can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep the pasta moist and creamy. Gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

If you're looking to freeze the dish, it's best to freeze the sauce separately from the pasta. Cooked orecchiette may become mushy when frozen and reheated. The sauce can last up to three months in the freezer, allowing you to enjoy this comforting meal at a later date with just a quick reheat.

Nutritional Benefits

Not only is sausage and leek orecchiette delicious, but it also offers nutritional benefits. Leeks are rich in vitamins A and K, as well as antioxidants, which can help boost your immune system. The inclusion of protein from the sausage contributes to muscle health and keeps you feeling fuller for longer.

With the addition of Parmesan cheese, you're also getting calcium and other essential nutrients that support bone health. While this dish is indulgent, it can still fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation, making it a satisfying choice for any meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute orecchiette with any pasta shape you prefer.

→ Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the dish, but it's best to store the sauce and pasta separately.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A side salad or garlic bread complements this meal perfectly.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can replace the sausage with a plant-based sausage alternative.