Beef Sausage and Broccoli Cheesy Pasta

Hearty, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, this Beef Sausage and Broccoli Cheesy Pasta is the ultimate one-pan comfort food. Juicy beef sausage, tender broccoli florets, and pasta are coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce that comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal, this recipe delivers on both ease and taste.

Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Done in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
• Comforting & Filling – Loaded with cheese, sausage, and pasta for a complete meal.
• Kid-Friendly – Creamy and flavorful without being spicy.
• Great Way to Use Broccoli – Adds color, nutrition, and texture.
• Minimal Cleanup – One-pot or one-pan option makes dinner stress-free.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pasta Dish:

• 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or shells)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb beef sausage (sliced or crumbled, casing removed if needed)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cups broccoli florets (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• ½ tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• ½ cup reserved pasta water (as needed)

For Garnish:

• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Chopped parsley or basil
• Extra Parmesan for serving

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot or deep skillet
• Strainer
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cheese grater
• Mixing bowl (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
3. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets to the boiling water with the pasta.
4. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set pasta and broccoli aside.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Sausage

1. In the same pot or a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add beef sausage and cook for 6–7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
3. Break it up into crumbles or slices as it cooks (depending on type).
4. Add chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft.
5. Stir in garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. Reduce heat to low. Pour in the cream and stir to combine.
2. Add mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
3. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta and broccoli into the skillet with the cheese sauce and sausage.
2. Toss gently to combine and coat everything evenly with the sauce.
3. Simmer on low for 1–2 minutes to bring it all together. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

1. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a spicy kick (optional).
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
3. Serve hot with extra Parmesan on the side.

Tips for the Best Cheesy Pasta

• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli – Adding it during the last 2 minutes of pasta boiling keeps it tender-crisp.
• Use High-Quality Cheese – Freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives the best flavor.
• Cream Alternatives – Use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version.
• Make It One-Pot – Use the same pot for cooking everything to save on cleanup.
• Extra Veggies? – Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for more variety.

Serving Suggestions

• Garlic Bread or Breadsticks – For dipping in the cheesy sauce.
• Simple Green Salad – A fresh, crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Roasted Veggies – Try roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus.
• Lemon Sparkling Water – Refreshing alongside the richness of the dish.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Let cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Reheat over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
• Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different protein?
   Yes, ground chicken, turkey, or plant-based sausage works well too.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Definitely. Prepare and store, then reheat before serving. Add a splash of milk or cream if needed.
3. Can I bake this dish?
   Yes! Transfer the finished pasta to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and broil for 2–3 minutes until bubbly and golden.
4. Is this kid-friendly?
   Absolutely. It’s creamy, cheesy, and mild in flavor—perfect for picky eaters.
5. How can I make it spicy?
   Use hot beef sausage and increase the red pepper flakes in the final garnish.

Final Thoughts
This Beef Sausage and Broccoli Cheesy Pasta is a satisfying, family-friendly dinner that combines everything you love: hearty meat, fresh veggies, gooey cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a comforting bowl of goodness that comes together quickly and leaves you full and happy.

Try it tonight and make it your new go-to pasta night favorite. Don’t forget to leave a review and share your delicious dish!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American-Italian

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 510 | Protein: 26g | Carbohydrates: 38g | Fat: 29g | Fiber: 4g | Sodium: 620mg

Print