Italian Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Dish

A flavorful dish combines savory Italian sausage with the slightly bitter bite of broccoli rabe for a perfect balance of tastes. It’s quick to make and sure to become a family favorite on busy weeknights.

★★★★★5(1 reviews)Updated: Mar 31, 2026

Prep Time 15 min

Cook Time 30 min

Total Time 45 min

Difficulty Medium

Ingredients 0/6

1 bunch broccoli rabe, trimmed 1 tablespoon salt 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1 pound fennel sausage links, cut into pieces 2 cloves garlic, chopped ¼ cup fresh lemon juice

What Makes This Recipe Special

This dish combines the bold flavors of spicy sausage with the slightly bitter, earthy taste of broccoli rabe. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that feels both comforting and fresh. Plus, it comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Chef Tips

- Blanch the broccoli rabe in boiling water for a minute before sautéing to reduce bitterness.
- Cook the sausage thoroughly until browned to enhance its flavor.
- Use good quality olive oil to add richness and depth to the dish.

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the broccoli rabe. Let it cook for about 12 minutes, or until the stems are nice and tender. Drain the greens, but be sure to save a cup of the cooking water.

Step 2

While that’s going on, heat up 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium pan over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook it for around 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until it’s browned all over. Once done, take the sausage out and set it aside.

Step 3

In the same pan, toss in the garlic and cook it for just about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the broccoli rabe back into the pan along with the reserved cup of cooking liquid and half of the lemon juice. Give everything a good stir.

Step 4

Now, return the sausage to the pan and let everything simmer together for about 10 minutes so the flavors can meld. Just before serving, drizzle in the remaining olive oil and lemon juice, give it one last stir, and you’re ready to enjoy.

Serving Guide

Serve this dish over your favorite pasta, such as orecchiette or penne, to soak up the flavorful juices. It also pairs well with crusty bread and a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to keep the sausage tender and the broccoli rabe fresh. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the greens may change.

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By Lucas Bennett

Food Writer

Lucas creates approachable recipes that balance flavor, simplicity, and reliability.