Farfalle with Broccoli Rabe & Sausage is a classic Italian-inspired pasta dish that strikes a perfect balance between comfort and sophistication. The unique combination of tender farfalle (bow-tie pasta), savory Italian sausage, and slightly bitter broccoli rabe (rapini) creates a deeply satisfying flavor experience. Tossed together with garlic, olive oil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan, this dish delivers a beautiful medley of earthy greens, spicy sausage, and nutty pasta — simple yet unforgettable.

This hearty and wholesome recipe is rooted in Southern Italian cuisine, where bold, rustic flavors take center stage. It’s a complete meal that brings together protein, greens, and carbs — ideal for family dinners or cozy evenings at home.

Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it celebrates balance — the savory depth of sausage complements the bitterness of broccoli rabe, while the farfalle pasta acts as the perfect canvas to carry all those flavors. The garlic-infused olive oil binds everything together beautifully.

It’s one of those dishes that feels both rustic and elegant at the same time. Every bite tastes comforting yet bright and fresh. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it exemplifies how simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. The slightly bitter broccoli rabe cuts through the richness of the sausage, giving the dish a perfect harmony. It’s a wholesome, one-pan meal that’s both hearty and nutritious.

Even those who aren’t fans of greens often fall in love with this combination. Once you make this, it’ll quickly become a go-to weeknight favorite!

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings and Nutritional Info

• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~540 kcal per serving

Course and Cuisine

• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340 g) farfalle pasta
• 1 bunch broccoli rabe (about 1 lb), trimmed and chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ½ lb (225 g) Italian sausage (sweet or spicy), casings removed
• 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for freshness)

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method:

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli Rabe

1. Trim the ends of the broccoli rabe and cut it into 2-inch pieces.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the broccoli rabe for 1–2 minutes.
3. Remove with tongs or a slotted spoon and immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking. Drain well.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. In the same boiling water, cook the farfalle pasta until al dente (follow package instructions).
2. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water and drain the rest. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Sausage

1. In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned and crumbly, breaking it up with a wooden spoon (about 5–7 minutes).
3. Once cooked, remove excess fat if necessary.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Broccoli Rabe

1. Add garlic slices and red pepper flakes to the sausage; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add the blanched broccoli rabe and toss to coat. Cook for another 2–3 minutes to combine flavors.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta

1. Add cooked farfalle and a splash of reserved pasta water to the skillet.
2. Toss everything together over low heat until evenly mixed and lightly saucy.
3. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon juice (if using).

Step 6: Finish and Serve

1. Remove from heat and sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan.
2. Toss once more and serve immediately.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve the Farfalle with Broccoli Rabe & Sausage warm, topped with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil. Pair it with:

• A crusty piece of Italian bread
• A crisp green salad with balsamic dressing
• A glass of Chianti or Pinot Grigio

Recipe Tips

• If you find broccoli rabe too bitter, blanch it for 3–4 minutes instead of 1–2 minutes.
• Add a splash of white wine to deglaze the sausage pan for extra flavor.
• Use spicy Italian sausage for a bold kick, or sweet sausage for a milder version.
• Don’t skip the pasta water — it helps the sauce cling perfectly to the pasta.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Version: Skip the sausage and add roasted chickpeas or sun-dried tomatoes for protein.
2. Creamy Version: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream or mascarpone cheese at the end for a velvety texture.
3. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta instead of traditional farfalle.
4. Extra Greens: Add spinach, kale, or Swiss chard for a double-green twist.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not ideal, as pasta and greens can become mushy upon thawing. If you must freeze, store only the sausage and sauce portion for up to 2 months and cook fresh pasta later.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil to restore texture.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Colander
• Wooden spoon or tongs
• Measuring cups and spoons

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I substitute broccoli rabe with another green?
Yes! Broccolini, kale, or spinach make great substitutes if you prefer a milder flavor.

Q2: Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely. Orecchiette, rigatoni, or penne also work wonderfully in this dish.

Q3: What if I don’t have Italian sausage?
You can use ground pork, chicken, or turkey with Italian herbs and a pinch of fennel seeds.

Q4: Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sausage and broccoli rabe mixture in advance and reheat it with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

Q5: Is this dish spicy?
It can be, depending on the sausage and whether you add red pepper flakes. Adjust to taste.

Conclusion

Farfalle with Broccoli Rabe & Sausage is a shining example of Italian comfort food done right — hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. The interplay between savory sausage, earthy greens, and perfectly cooked pasta makes this dish both rustic and refined. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight yet special enough for a dinner party. Whether you’re an Italian food lover or just looking for a wholesome, filling meal, this recipe will surely win your heart (and your taste buds).