There is something truly magical about a dish that comes together in just one pot yet delivers layers of flavor and texture that feel both indulgent and fresh. The One-Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata Recipe is that kind of recipe. It’s bright and zesty with lemon, rich and savory with Italian sausage, and beautifully balanced by the slightly bitter greenery of broccoli rabe. Topped with creamy burrata, this dish feels like an elegant meal you can eagerly whip up on a busy weeknight or impress friends with around the dinner table. Once you try it, it will definitely become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully straightforward, relying on fresh, honest ingredients that each bring something essential to the table. From the earthy sausage to the vibrant broccoli rabe, every component contributes to the perfect harmony of flavors, ensuring a satisfying meal without complicated prep.
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, orecchiette, or rigatoni): Choose your favorite shape to soak up all the delicious sauce and lemony goodness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a silky richness and helps brown the sausage beautifully.
- 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, casings removed): Provides hearty, savory depth that beautifully complements the bright lemon.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Gives an aromatic punch that elevates the entire dish.
- 1 bunch broccoli rabe, chopped (about 4 cups): Offers a slightly bitter, nutritious green that balances the richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a subtle spicy kick if you like a touch of heat.
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced): The star of the show, bringing vibrant citrus brightness to every bite.
- 3/4 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth): Creates the flavorful cooking liquid that melds everything together.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to round out the flavors just right.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds savory umami and a touch of nuttiness.
- 8 oz burrata cheese (or fresh mozzarella): Melts into creamy, luscious pockets of goodness on the finished pasta.
- Fresh basil (optional, for garnish): Provides a fresh, fragrant note to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make One-Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. You want it nicely browned and cooked through, which should take about 6 to 8 minutes. This step infuses the oil with the sausage’s savory goodness, building the perfect foundation for your pasta.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Add Broccoli Rabe
Once the sausage is browned, toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using. Let the garlic cook until fragrant but not browned, about 1 minute. Then stir in the chopped broccoli rabe, allowing it to wilt down slightly while mingling with the sausage and garlic aromas.
Step 3: Add Liquids, Pasta, and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest, then season with salt and pepper. Add your pasta directly into the pot, making sure it’s mostly submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. This unique method lets the pasta soak up all the flavorful broth, creating a luscious, cohesive dish all from one pot.
Step 4: Finish with Cheese and Burrata
Once the pasta is perfectly cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until creamy and melted. Then gently fold in the burrata or fresh mozzarella, allowing its rich creaminess to soften and mingle with the hot pasta just before serving.
How to Serve One-Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh basil leaves on top brightens the dish and lends a fragrant finish that pairs beautifully with the lemon and creamy burrata. For an extra touch of texture, a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or some cracked black pepper makes the presentation pop and adds layers of flavor.
Side Dishes
This meal is satisfying on its own, but if you’d like to round it out, a crisp, simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta wonderfully. Some crusty bread is also fantastic for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant dinner party vibe, serve the pasta in wide, shallow bowls, placing dollops of burrata artfully across each serving. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or lemon zest on top adds a lovely crunch and extra citrus notes to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover pasta in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because of the burrata, the texture may change slightly, but reheating gently helps maintain its lusciousness.
Freezing
Freezing is possible, but the creaminess of the burrata means it’s best added fresh after reheating. Freeze the pasta (without cheese) in a sealed container for up to 2 months, then thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating and adding fresh burrata or mozzarella.
Reheating
Reheat the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. Once warmed through, top with fresh burrata or mozzarella to recreate that melt-in-your-mouth creaminess that makes this dish so wonderful.
FAQs
Can I use a different green instead of broccoli rabe?
Absolutely! Swiss chard, kale, or spinach all make great substitutes if you want a slightly milder or more tender green. Just adjust cooking times accordingly since some greens cook faster.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes. Simply swap the Italian sausage for a plant-based sausage or a flavorful mushroom sauté. Use vegetable broth for the cooking liquid, and you’ll still get plenty of depth and satisfying texture.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Definitely. Opt for your favorite gluten-free pasta to keep this recipe safe for gluten-sensitive eaters. Cooking times might vary slightly, so keep an eye on the pasta’s texture as it simmers.
What if I don’t have burrata? Is mozzarella a good substitute?
Fresh mozzarella works perfectly as a substitute for burrata. While it’s slightly less creamy inside, it still melts beautifully and complements the pasta’s lemony, savory flavors.
Can I prepare this dish for a crowd?
Yes, this recipe scales up well. Just use a larger pot or split the cooking into batches. Cooking the pasta directly in the broth keeps flavors concentrated and reduces cleanup, making it perfect for serving guests.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t beat how the One-Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata Recipe combines simplicity, speed, and incredible flavor all in one dish. It’s a recipe that invites you to sit down, relax, and savor every bite of its bright, creamy, and savory goodness. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do.
Print
One-Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This One-Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata is a flavorful and comforting Italian-inspired dish that combines spicy Italian sausage, slightly bitter broccoli rabe, and creamy burrata with a bright lemony sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe cooks everything in one pot for easy cleanup and deliciously infused flavors.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sausage
- 12 oz pasta (such as spaghetti, orecchiette, or rigatoni)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, casings removed)
Vegetables and Flavorings
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bunch broccoli rabe, chopped (about 4 cups)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
Liquids and Cheese
- 3/4 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz burrata cheese (or fresh mozzarella)
- Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sauté Garlic and Broccoli Rabe: Add the minced garlic and chopped broccoli rabe to the pot with the sausage. Stir in the red pepper flakes if using, and cook for 3-4 minutes until the broccoli rabe has softened slightly.
- Add Pasta and Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Add the dry pasta directly to the pot, making sure it’s mostly submerged in the broth. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook Pasta: Simmer uncovered for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir midway through cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Finish with Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated. Season again with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve with Burrata and Basil: Divide the pasta among plates and top each serving with a generous portion of burrata cheese. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired and serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- You can substitute the broccoli rabe with broccolini or kale if preferred.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes quantity to control the heat level.
- Using fresh broth enhances flavor but water can be used in a pinch.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth.
- If burrata is unavailable, fresh mozzarella is a good alternative.
- To save time, you can prepare the sausage ahead of time and refrigerate.
