Spicy Italian sausage and bitter broccoli rabe (rapini) are seasoned with a hearty dose of chile flakes and Parmesan cheese in this savory main dish.
Preparation Time
15 mins
Cooking Time
15 mins
Total Time
30 mins
Calories
498 Calories
Recipe Instructions
Step 1
Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Once the water is boiling, stir in the penne, and return to a boil. Cook the pasta uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta has cooked through, but is still firm to the bite, about 11 minutes. Drain well in a colander set in the sink, reserving 1/2 cup of the water.
Step 2
Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir the sausage pieces, garlic, and red pepper flakes in the hot pan until the sausage is no longer pink on the outside, about 4 minutes. Stir in the broccoli rabe and 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese. Pour in the reserved 1/2 cup of pasta boiling water. Cover, and cook until the sausage is no longer pink in the center and the broccoli rabe is tender, 5 to 7 minutes.
Step 3
Stir the cooked pasta, broccoli rabe, and 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese together until evenly mixed. Season to taste with salt and pepper to serve.
Ingredients
salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 (16 ounce) box penne pasta
1 pound hot Italian sausage links, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 pound broccoli rabe, cut into 1 1/2-inch lengths
