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Tags and nutritional info are auto-generated and may be inaccurate. Always check the full ingredient list before cooking.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the sausage directly to a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Break it up until browned and cooked through. Remove to a bowl with a slotted spoon, keeping any drippings in the pan.
Add a drizzle of olive oil to the same pan with the drippings. Add bell peppers and sauté until soft, about 8-10 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Return the sausage to the pan, sprinkle in oregano, and stir well. Set aside.
Cook the orecchiette until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water and drain.
Add pasta, feta, and 1/2 cup pasta water to the sausage mixture. Cover and cook over medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring halfway. Add more water if needed. It's done when the feta has melted into a sauce that coats the pasta.
Serve warm, topped with grated parmesan if desired.
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Use a meat chopper for fast, even browning.
Don't skip the pasta water - the starch is what makes the sauce glossy and silky.
Substitutions: chicken sausage instead of pork; fusilli, penne, or rigatoni in place of orecchiette; goat cheese instead of feta for a tangier finish. Ricotta or mascarpone also work for a creamier, milder sauce.
Variations: add fresh spinach or kale in the last few minutes; stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat; add sun-dried or roasted cherry tomatoes when the sausage goes back in.
Heat level: choose mild or spicy Italian sausage to suit your preference.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute orecchiette with fusilli, penne, or rigatoni.
What can I use instead of feta cheese?
You can use goat cheese for a tangier finish or ricotta or mascarpone for a creamier, milder sauce.
How should I store leftovers?
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, you can add fresh spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking.
How can I adjust the heat level?
Choose mild or spicy Italian sausage to suit your preference, and add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
