Katie Lee Biegel Just Shared a Quick & Comforting Pasta Dish That’s Perfect for Weeknights

When it comes to easy dinners, there’s nothing quite like a comforting pasta dish. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, satisfying and delicious. And recently, Katie Lee Biegel, co-host of The Kitchen, shared an elevated pasta recipe that is not only quick and easy but also perfect for busy weeknights. In this article, we’ll take you through the step-by-step process of making Katie Lee Biegel’s Orecchiette with Sausage, White Beans, and Tomatoes, using simple ingredients you may already have on hand. Get ready to dive into a bowl of pure comfort!

Ingredients needed for Katie Lee Biegel’s Orecchiette dish

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need to recreate this delicious pasta dish:

Cooking Katie Lee Biegel’s Orecchiette with Sausage, White Beans, and Tomatoes

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking!

Step 1: Prepare the pasta

Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orecchiette pasta. Cook it for a couple of minutes less than the suggested time on the package. This ensures that the pasta doesn’t overcook when later combined with the sauce and other ingredients.

Step 2: Sauté the sausage

While the pasta is cooking, heat the extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add in the sweet Italian sausage (chicken or pork), which you have removed from the casings and cut into large chunks. Brown the sausage in the skillet, stirring occasionally, until nicely browned on all sides. Once the sausage is browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Cook the onions and garlic

In the same skillet, add the diced yellow onion to the remaining fat and cook until softened. Stir in the sliced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Add tomatoes and beans

Add the quartered grape or pear tomatoes and crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet. Cook for about 4 minutes, until the tomatoes start to blister and split, releasing their delicious flavors. Next, add the rinsed and drained cannellini beans to the skillet and return the cooked sausage to the mixture. Stir everything well to combine.

Step 5: Combine the pasta and sauce

Before draining the cooked pasta, scoop out a half cup of pasta water and set it aside. This starchy water will help create a smooth and silky sauce. Drain the orecchiette pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the sauce. Toss the pasta with the sauce until it is fully coated and well-incorporated.

Step 6: Add the finishing touches

Making sure the heat is on low, start adding the grated Parmesan cheese in batches to the skillet, letting each batch melt before adding more. Stir in the minced fresh parsley for added freshness and flavor. Finally, it’s time to taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Time to serve and enjoy!

Your Orecchiette with Sausage, White Beans, and Tomatoes is now ready to be served and enjoyed. Divide the pasta among plates or bowls, and feel free to sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan cheese on top for garnish. This comforting and flavorful pasta dish is perfect for quick weeknight dinners when you need something delicious and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for orecchiette pasta, you can certainly use other types such as penne, fusilli, or rigatoni. The key is to choose a pasta shape that will hold the sauce well and provide a good balance of texture.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this dish by omitting the sausage and adding more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. You can also substitute the sausage with plant-based alternatives or simply increase the amount of beans for added protein.

3. Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce on the stovetop while you cook the pasta, then combine them as instructed in the recipe.

4. How can I make this dish spicier?

If you prefer a spicier version of the dish, you can increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or even add some chili flakes or hot sauce to the sauce. Adjust the spice level according to your preference, but be careful not to overpower the other flavors in the dish.

5. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers of this pasta dish for