Description
Looking for a creamy, comforting pasta dish that’s loaded with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes? This Beef Sausage and Broccoli Cheesy Pasta has you covered. It combines hearty beef sausage, tender broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta, all tossed in a rich, cheesy sauce that coats every bite. This family-friendly dish is ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or whenever you need a quick and satisfying meal.
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Ingredients
For the Pasta Dish:
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12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 lb beef sausage (sliced or crumbled)
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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3 cups broccoli florets
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½ tsp dried oregano
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½ tsp dried basil
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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1½ cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
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½ cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
For Garnish & Serving:
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Fresh parsley, chopped
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Red pepper flakes (optional)
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Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
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During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water.
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Drain both the pasta and broccoli together. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water for later.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Sausage
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In the same pot or a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
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Add beef sausage and cook for 6–7 minutes until browned and fully cooked.
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Add chopped onion and cook for another 2–3 minutes until soft.
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Stir in garlic, oregano, and basil. Cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
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Lower heat and pour in the cream. Stir to combine with the sausage mixture.
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Add cheddar (or mozzarella) and Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth and melted.
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If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen it.
Step 4: Combine & Finish
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Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the sauce.
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Toss everything together gently until well-coated.
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Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
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Simmer on low for 1–2 minutes until everything is heated through.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
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Sprinkle with chopped parsley and red pepper flakes if desired.
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Serve hot with extra Parmesan cheese on the side.
Notes
Use Freshly Grated Cheese – It melts more smoothly and gives the best texture.
Don’t Overcook Broccoli – Adding it at the end keeps it bright green and tender-crisp.
Try Other Pasta Shapes – Fusilli, farfalle, or elbow macaroni also work great.
Boost the Flavor – Add a splash of Dijon mustard or a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce.
Make It a Bake – Pour into a baking dish, top with more cheese, and broil for 2–3 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American-Italian