Pasta Pie with Broccoli and Italian Sausage

Pasta Pie with Broccoli and Italian Sausage Recipe from Italy

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Pasta Pie with Broccoli and Italian Sausage is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the flavors of Italian sausage, broccoli, and cheese in a unique and satisfying way. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, and is sure to impress your guests with its beautiful presentation and rich flavors.

History

The origins of Pasta Pie with Broccoli and Italian Sausage are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in Italy, where pasta dishes are a staple of the cuisine. This recipe has been adapted and modified over the years to include ingredients such as broccoli and Italian sausage, adding a unique twist to the traditional pasta pie.

Ingredients

12 oz (340 g) turkey italian sausage, casings removed
1.5 cups chopped fresh mushrooms
10 oz (283 g) package frozen chopped broccoli or spinach, thawed
1 tsp crushed garlic
2.5 cups cooked thin spaghetti (about 5 oz (142 g) dry)
1.25 cups shredded reduced-fat mozzarella or provolone cheese
2 cups fat-free egg substitute
2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
olive oil cooking spray

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
Coat a large nonstick skillet with cooking spray and place it over medium heat.
Add the sausage and cook for several minutes, stirring to crumble until the sausage is no longer pink.
Add the mushrooms, broccoli or spinach, and garlic.
Cover and cook for a few more minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
Drain off any excess liquid.
Place the sausage and vegetables in a large bowl and toss in the spaghetti.
Next, toss in the mozzarella and egg substitute.
Respray the skillet with cooking spray and spread the pasta mixture evenly in the dish.
Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top and lightly spray the top with cooking spray.
Bake uncovered for about 20 minutes, until the center of the pie is set but still moist.
Let it sit for 5 minutes before cutting into wedges and serving.

Variations

Substitute the Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the dish.
Add additional vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the Italian sausage thoroughly before adding it to the dish to ensure that it is safe to eat.

- Make sure to drain off any excess liquid from the vegetables before adding them to the pasta mixture to prevent the pie from becoming too watery.

- Let the pasta pie sit for a few minutes after baking to allow it to set and become easier to slice and serve.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Pasta Pie with Broccoli and Italian Sausage with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the pasta al dente before adding it to the dish to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.

- Use a nonstick skillet to cook the sausage and vegetables to prevent sticking and burning.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of cheese you prefer in place of the reduced-fat cheese called for in the recipe.

- Substitute whole wheat pasta for a healthier alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

Pasta Pie with Broccoli and Italian Sausage can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Simply cover the dish with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Pasta Pie with Broccoli and Italian Sausage with fresh basil or parsley before serving for a pop of color and added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Pasta Pie with Broccoli and Italian Sausage with a glass of red wine such as Chianti or Sangiovese for a perfect pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Pasta Pie with Broccoli and Italian Sausage can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Pasta Pie with Broccoli and Italian Sausage contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Pasta Pie with Broccoli and Italian Sausage contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Pasta Pie with Broccoli and Italian Sausage contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Pasta Pie with Broccoli and Italian Sausage contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Pasta Pie with Broccoli and Italian Sausage is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and wheat (pasta), so it may not be suitable for those with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

Pasta Pie with Broccoli and Italian Sausage is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, as well as essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Pasta Pie with Broccoli and Italian Sausage is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was a hot summer day, and I was rummaging through an old box of recipes that I had collected over the years. As I sifted through the yellowed index cards and stained scraps of paper, my eyes landed on a faded recipe for Pasta Pie with Broccoli and Italian Sausage.

I couldn't remember where I had gotten the recipe from, but as I read through the ingredients and instructions, I knew that I had to make it. The combination of tender pasta, savory Italian sausage, and crisp broccoli seemed like the perfect dish to whip up for dinner that night.

I gathered all the necessary ingredients and got to work in the kitchen. I boiled the pasta until it was al dente, cooked the Italian sausage until it was browned and crumbly, and blanched the broccoli until it was vibrant green and tender. As I layered the cooked ingredients in a pie dish with a mixture of eggs, ricotta cheese, and Parmesan, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement.

The aroma of the Pasta Pie baking in the oven filled the kitchen, and when it was finally ready, I couldn't wait to dig in. The first bite was a revelation – the flavors of the sausage, broccoli, and cheese melded together perfectly, creating a dish that was comforting and satisfying in every way.

I shared the Pasta Pie with my family that night, and they all raved about how delicious it was. My grandchildren, in particular, couldn't get enough of it, and they begged me to make it again soon. From that moment on, Pasta Pie with Broccoli and Italian Sausage became a staple in our household.

As the years went by, I continued to make the Pasta Pie for special occasions and family gatherings. I tweaked the recipe here and there, adding a pinch of this or a dash of that to suit my tastes. Sometimes, I would even swap out the broccoli for spinach or add in some roasted red peppers for a little extra flavor.

Every time I made the Pasta Pie, I would think back to that hot summer day when I first discovered the recipe. It had become more than just a dish to me – it was a link to my past, a connection to the people and places that had shaped me into the cook that I was today.

I would often share the recipe with friends and neighbors, passing on the tradition of Pasta Pie with Broccoli and Italian Sausage to the next generation. It brought me joy to see others enjoy the dish as much as my family did, and I was grateful for the opportunity to spread a little culinary happiness wherever I went.

Now, as I sit here in my kitchen, surrounded by the familiar sights and smells of cooking, I can't help but feel a sense of pride. The recipe for Pasta Pie with Broccoli and Italian Sausage may have come to me by chance, but it has become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire.

I may not remember where I found the recipe or who gave it to me, but one thing is for certain – I will always be grateful for the day that Pasta Pie with Broccoli and Italian Sausage came into my life. It has brought me countless moments of joy and satisfaction, and for that, I am truly thankful.