Turkey Sausage & Spinach Orecchiette
I got this REALLY good recipe from the March 2013 Family Circle. It's SO good that I just have to share it with all of you!! It's a nice change from having spaghetti on a cooler Fall evening when you can still enjoy eating out on your patio al fresco style.
Total time
22 min
Servings
6
Calories
317.2
Category
Pasta Shells
If you're looking for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner that feels homemade without the fuss, this Turkey Sausage & Spinach Orecchiette is your answer. In just 22 minutes, you can have a hearty, European-inspired pasta dish on the table that’s packed with flavor. The combination of savory turkey sausage, sweet peppers, and tender spinach in a rich tomato sauce over orecchiette shells is both comforting and nourishing. Topped with nutty Asiago cheese, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Makes 6 servings
- 4 garlic
- 1 sweet peppers
- 2 tomato sauce
- 2 asiago cheese
Method
Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium high heat. Add sausage, onions and garlic; cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in peppers and Italian seasoning; cook an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add tomato sauce and simmer 2 minutes.
Meanwhile, cook orecchiette pasta following package directions, about 10 minutes. Drain.
Gradually stir spinach into skillet. In pasta pot, combine pasta and sausage sauce, adding some of the cooking water if needed to loosen sauce.
To serve, spoon pasta into a large serving bowl. Top with shredded Asiago cheese.
Cook's notes
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor — pre-minced garlic can taste bitter.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, use hot Italian turkey sausage instead of sweet.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; aim for al dente since it will finish cooking slightly in the sauce.
- Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining — it’s a secret weapon for adjusting sauce consistency.
- Add the spinach gradually and stir until just wilted to keep its vibrant color and nutrients.
Easy swaps
- Instead of turkey sausage, use chicken sausage or plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option
- Instead of orecchiette, use shells, fusilli, or penne
- Instead of asiago cheese, use parmesan or pecorino romano
- Instead of sweet peppers, use bell peppers (any color) or roasted red peppers
- Instead of spinach, use kale or Swiss chard (cook a bit longer)
Frequently asked
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato sauce?
Yes, you can substitute about 2 cups of crushed fresh tomatoes or diced tomatoes. Simmer a little longer (about 5 minutes) to let the flavors meld.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free orecchiette or your favorite gluten-free pasta shape. Ensure your sausage and tomato sauce are also gluten-free.
What can I add for extra protein?
Add a can of drained cannellini beans or chickpeas along with the spinach for extra fiber and protein. Or top with a fried egg for a decadent twist.
How do I make this dairy-free?
Simply omit the Asiago cheese or use a dairy-free parmesan alternative. The dish still tastes delicious without it.
