I found this dish researching some other recipes I want to make and the simplicity really struck me. A one pot pasta dinner that really works? Well, the gang at Serious Eats seem to think so, so who am I to question it? The truth is, this dish is super simple and really delicious! The sausage creates the base flavor, the spinach adds its supporting flavors, and all of it is bound to the pasta with a little cream and a heap of Romano cheese. While this dish may not make the weight loss cookbooks, it makes mine for being a simple, delicious one pot pasta that satisfies the need for a quick meal.  So if you are seeking a way to enjoy spinach and pasta, give this recipe a try!

In a medium skillet over Medium/Medium-High heat, add the olive oil and heat until just starting to shimmer. Add the sausage, crumble and brown until almost no pink is left, approximately 3 to 5 minutes.

Add the shallots and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until turning translucent.

Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, approximately 1 minute. Add the orecchiette and stir it into the olive oil and sausage renderings, spreading the mixture into an even layer in the pan.

Add the chicken stock/broth and bring to a heavy simmer.

Cover and reduce the heat to Medium-Low, cooking for approximately 11 minutes until the pasta is nearly done and the liquid is well reduced.

Add the spinach and cover for 3 minutes.

Stir in the wilted spinach before adding the cream and half the cheese.

Stir the cream and cheese to create the sauce and remove from the heat. Serve with remaining cheese and red pepper flakes, if desired.

Enjoy!