Cavatelli broccoli rabe and sausage

 

Cavatelli with Broccoli Rabe and Sausage: A Rustic Italian Classic

When it comes to Italian comfort food, few dishes strike the perfect balance between hearty and healthy quite like Cavatelli with Broccoli Rabe and Sausage. Rooted in Southern Italian tradition, this rustic pasta dish brings together bold flavors, simple ingredients, and satisfying textures — ideal for weeknight dinners or a special Sunday meal.

A Southern Italian Staple

Cavatelli, small hand-rolled pasta shells made from semolina flour, are a specialty of regions like Puglia and Molise. Their shape is perfect for catching sauces and bits of savory meat, making them the ideal pairing for this recipe’s rich sausage and vibrant greens.

Broccoli rabe (also known as rapini) is a slightly bitter, leafy green that complements the richness of Italian sausage beautifully. When sautéed with garlic and a touch of chili flakes, it adds a punch of flavor and a hearty texture that balances the dish.

Ingredients That Shine

• Cavatelli pasta – Either fresh or store-bought, these chewy little shells soak up all the flavor.

• Italian sausage – Choose sweet or spicy based on your preference. The sausage is crumbled and browned, bringing savory depth to the dish.

• Broccoli rabe – Slightly bitter and nutrient-rich, it’s blanched briefly before being sautéed to perfection.

• Garlic and chili flakes – Simple aromatics that create the flavor base.

• Olive oil and Parmesan – For richness and that final, nutty finish.

Simple, Flavorful Preparation

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. The broccoli rabe is quickly blanched to tame its bitterness, then sautéed in olive oil with garlic and chili flakes. The sausage is browned until crispy and golden, infusing the pan with its juices. The cooked cavatelli is then tossed into the pan, absorbing the flavors of the sausage and greens. A final drizzle of olive oil and a generous shower of grated Parmesan cheese bring everything together.

Why You'll Love It

• One-pan meal with layers of flavor

• Balanced between rich sausage and healthy greens

• Customizable – switch in other greens or use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version

• Perfect for any occasion – elegant enough for guests, easy enough for a Tuesday night

Final Thoughts

Cavatelli with Broccoli Rabe and Sausage is a dish that speaks to the soul of Italian cooking — seasonal ingredients, bold flavors, and a warm, welcoming bowl of pasta that feels like home. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is a must-try for lovers of authentic, no-fuss Italian cuisine.