Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsFirst and Last Tavern Hartford#22 Broccoli Rabe & Sausage With Penne Recipe

#22 Broccoli Rabe & Sausage With Penne Recipe

Time30m
Serves4

Tossed with olive oil, garlic, & a touch of red pepper

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Ingredients

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Pasta

Sauce & Seasoning

Method

Pasta Preparation

  1. 1

    Cook the Penne

    In a large pot of salted boiling water, add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically about 10-12 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Sausage & Broccoli Rabe

  1. 2

    Cook the Sausage

    In a large skillet over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it up into smaller pieces, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

  2. 3

    Add Garlic and Broccoli Rabe

    Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the broccoli rabe, stirring to combine. Cook until the broccoli rabe is tender and bright green, about 3-5 minutes.

  3. 4

    Season the Mixture

    Stir in the red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Combining Ingredients

  1. 5

    Combine Pasta and Sauce

    Add the cooked penne to the skillet with the sausage and broccoli rabe. Pour in the olive oil and mix well. If the mixture seems dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

  2. 6

    Finish with Cheese

    Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Serving

  1. 7

    Serve

    Divide the pasta into bowls and serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

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