If you’re craving something vibrant, comforting, and bursting with bright flavors, this One Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine tender pasta perfectly cooked with slightly bitter, earthy broccoli rabe, enveloped in a silky, lemon-scented sauce that’s both refreshing and savory. The spicy-sweet sausage adds a hearty punch while creamy, luscious burrata melts on top, creating an indulgent finish. This dish is not only a flavor powerhouse but also comes together quickly and with minimal cleanup, making it a favorite for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a starring role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color without overwhelming your pantry or your palette.
- 12 ounces short pasta (orecchiette or rigatoni): Holds sauce beautifully and adds the perfect chewy bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Infuses a rich, fruity undertone and helps brown the sausage.
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed): Brings a savory, spiced depth essential for balance with the lemon and greens.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Adds aromatic warmth and a subtle punch to the dish.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Gives a gentle heat contrast, but you can skip if you prefer mild flavors.
- 1 bunch broccoli rabe (trimmed and chopped): Delivers that slightly bitter, green freshness which complements the sausage perfectly.
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon: Brightens the whole dish with a citrusy zing that keeps it light and lively.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a salty, nutty finish that ties the flavors together.
- 1 cup reserved pasta water: Creates a silky sauce by binding the ingredients seamlessly.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Enhances all the vibrant flavors.
- 8 ounces burrata cheese (torn into pieces): The crowning glory that adds creaminess and a subtle sweetness.
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh herbal note and pretty green pops on the plate.
How to Make One Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata Recipe
Step 1: Cook Pasta and Blanch Broccoli Rabe
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until just al dente. In the last two minutes of cooking, toss in your chopped broccoli rabe right into the pasta water. This simultaneous cooking ensures the greens soften just perfectly without losing their vibrant color or nutritious bite. Drain everything together but be sure to reserve one cup of that flavorful pasta water—this liquid gold will be key for creating your luscious sauce later on.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
While the pasta cooks, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in the same pot or a large skillet over medium heat. Add your sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it sizzles. Cook until the sausage is deeply browned and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. This step builds unbeatable savory richness, caramelized bits, and an irresistible aroma that will have everyone eager for the next step.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes
Push the sausage around to make room and add the minced garlic along with red pepper flakes if using. Sauté for about one minute, letting those garlic cloves release their fragrant oils without burning. This aromatic base infuses the whole dish with warmth and a little subtle kick, marrying beautifully with the sausage’s flavor.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Broccoli Rabe, and Lemon
Return the drained pasta and broccoli rabe back into the pot with the sausage mixture. Zest and juice one lemon over the top, followed by half a cup of the reserved pasta water and the grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything vigorously to combine. Keep adding a splash more pasta water as needed until the sauce reaches a silky, clinging consistency. Season generously with salt and pepper to bring all the bright, savory, and slightly bitter flavors into harmonious balance.
Step 5: Finish with Burrata and Herbs
Just before serving, tear your burrata into rustic pieces and nestle it right on top of the pasta. The cheese will slowly melt into creamy pockets that temper the zing of the lemon and the spice of sausage. For an extra special touch, sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley. This final flourish not only elevates the presentation but adds a fresh brightness that makes every bite unforgettable.
How to Serve One Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this dish further, try a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper on top. A few torn basil or parsley leaves add a burst of color and a fresh lift that contrast beautifully with the richness of the burrata. If you like, a dusting of extra Parmesan on the table lets everyone tailor their own cheesy finish.
Side Dishes
This One Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata Recipe stands out on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or some crusty garlic bread. Either choice adds texture and refreshing notes that complement the hearty pasta without competing.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve this pasta family-style in a wide shallow bowl or rustic wooden platter to encourage sharing and conversation. Alternatively, portion it into individual shallow bowls, finishing each with a marble of burrata and herb garnish. Adding lemon twists or edible flowers can create the wow factor if you want to impress your guests visually as much as with taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers of this delightful One Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata Recipe, store them promptly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The burrata works best served fresh, so consider keeping it separate and adding it just before reheating a portion. Stored properly, your pasta will stay delicious for up to 3 days.
Freezing
While the components of this pasta are fresh and best enjoyed soon after cooking, you can freeze leftovers if necessary. For best results, skip adding burrata before freezing; instead, freeze only the pasta and sausage mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To warm up your leftover One Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata Recipe, gently reheat it in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce’s silkiness, stirring frequently until warmed through. Reintroduce fresh burrata just before serving to keep that creamy, dreamy texture.
FAQs
Can I substitute the sausage for a vegetarian option?
Absolutely! You can replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based sausage alternative. This keeps the texture and savoriness while making the dish vegetarian-friendly.
Is broccoli rabe very bitter? Can I use a milder green?
Broccoli rabe does have a slight bitterness that adds character to the dish. If you’re sensitive to bitterness, substitute it with broccolini or kale for a gentler flavor that still works beautifully with the lemon and sausage.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the short pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as gluten-free pasta can cook differently.
What type of sausage works best here?
Italian sausage is ideal because of its balanced seasoning, but you can choose sweet or spicy depending on your preference. Spicy sausage adds a welcome kick, while sweet sausage offers a mellower flavor.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for a party?
You can prep most things in advance: chop the broccoli rabe and garlic, and cook the sausage. Keep the burrata aside to add fresh right before serving. Assemble and toss the pasta just before your guests arrive to keep textures bright and cheese creamy.
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata Recipe is a joyous celebration of bright, bold flavors and comforting textures wrapped up in a no-fuss cooking method. Whether you’re aiming to impress friends or just want a reliable, delicious meal on busy nights, this pasta delivers it all: richness, freshness, professionalism, and heart. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a beloved staple in your dinner rotation!
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One Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This One Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata is a vibrant and hearty Italian-American dish featuring perfectly cooked short pasta tossed with savory Italian sausage, slightly bitter broccoli rabe, and crowned with creamy burrata cheese. The zesty lemon and Parmesan create a luscious sauce that brings all the flavors together in a single pot for an easy yet impressive meal.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 ounces short pasta (like orecchiette or rigatoni)
- 1 bunch broccoli rabe, trimmed and chopped
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
Protein and Dairy
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 8 ounces burrata cheese, torn into pieces
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Oils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Additional
- 1 cup reserved pasta water
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta and Broccoli Rabe: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the short pasta and cook until just al dente according to the package instructions. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the chopped broccoli rabe directly to the pasta water. Drain both pasta and broccoli rabe together, reserving 1 cup of the pasta water.
- Brown the Sausage: In the same large pot or a separate large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Sauté Garlic and Spice: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the cooked sausage. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Return the drained pasta and broccoli rabe to the pot with the sausage and garlic mixture. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. Add ½ cup of the reserved pasta water and toss everything together thoroughly to combine and create a silky sauce. Add more pasta water as needed to reach your desired sauce consistency.
- Season and Serve: Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Top the pasta with torn burrata cheese and garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.
Notes
- Substitute broccoli rabe with broccolini or kale for a milder flavor.
- Use spicy Italian sausage for extra heat, or sweet Italian sausage for a more balanced dish.
- Make sure to reserve enough pasta water as it is key to creating the silky sauce.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the burrata’s creamy texture at its best.
