1package (16 ounces)ground Italian sausagemake sure to use Italian since it has a ton of added flavor!
1poundbroccolistems removed; coarsely chopped
2teaspoonsminced garlic
1tablespoondried parsley flakes
2teaspoonsItalian seasoning
1teaspoonpaprika
1/2teaspoongarlic powder
3cupschicken stockor chicken broth
1package (12 ounces)Barilla Pronto noodlesI used rotini
3/4cupfreshly grated Parmesan cheese
Optional: fresh parsley for garnish, squeeze of lemon, pinch of red pepper flakes
Salt and Pepperto taste
Instructions
Pour 1 tablespoon olive oil into a large (at least 12 inch) nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Pan MUST be nonstick.
Add in the Italian sausage and break it up as you cook. Stir around until completely cooked through and then move the sausage to the edges of the pan.
Add in the chopped broccoli and sauté until crisp tender. Toss with the sausage and then transfer to a plate. (Add in an extra tablespoon or two of olive oil if needed here)
Drain all but 1 tablespoon of fat and add in one more tablespoon of olive oil Add in the garlic, dried parsley flakes, Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, about 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and about 1/2 teaspoon salt (salt and pepper to taste and limit or omit depending on saltiness of stock/broth)
Add in the chicken stock. Mix well. Pour the entire box of rotini noodles on top of the stock and stir until just combined.
Turn the heat up to high (no need to cover the pan) and set your timer for 8 minutes.
At 8 minutes, check on the pasta. Stir if needed. Test for doneness and if not done, allow to cook for 1-2 additional minutes.
Add the sausage and broccoli back in. Top with freshly grated parmesan cheese and optional garnishes: parsley, lemon, and/or red pepper flakes.
Season to taste with salt and pepper. Enjoy immediately.