If you love pasta that hits all the right notes—zesty, savory, creamy, and just a little bit spicy—you’re going to adore this One Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata Recipe. This dish is a wonderful, fuss-free meal where everything cooks together in one pot, making it both a time-saver and flavor-booster. With the bright zing of lemon, the hearty bite of sausage, and creamy burrata melting on top, each bite feels like a warm hug. Plus, the addition of vibrant broccoli rabe brings a perfect touch of bitterness that balances the richness beautifully. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a go-to weeknight winner that tastes like a special occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this One Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata Recipe comes down to using a handful of simple, quality ingredients that each add their own special layer of flavor, texture, and color to the dish.
- 12 ounces pasta (preferably orecchiette or penne): Holds sauce wonderfully and provides a satisfying, chewy base.
- 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, your choice): Adds savory, meaty depth and a little kick if you like some heat.
- 1 bunch broccoli rabe, trimmed and chopped: Offers a bright, slightly bitter green note that cuts through richness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the sausage and adds a subtle fruity richness.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Brings fragrant warmth and a touch of pungency.
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon: Adds an essential burst of citrus brightness that ties everything together.
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth: Cooks the pasta and infuses flavor into every bite.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a salty, nutty richness that enhances the creaminess.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Balances and sharpens flavors.
- Fresh burrata cheese, for topping: Melts beautifully and adds luscious creaminess to finish.
- Red pepper flakes, for garnish (optional): Offers a hint of smoky heat to brighten the presentation.
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 or deep skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add your Italian sausage, breaking it up into bite-sized pieces as it cooks. The key here is patience—allow the sausage to brown nicely without rushing. This step builds a foundation of flavor that makes the whole dish sing. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until it’s fully cooked through and beautifully caramelized.
Step 2: Add the Garlic
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook it just until fragrant, about one minute. Garlic burns quickly, so keep it moving in the pan. This step infuses the oil and sausage with aromatic layers that are essential for the depth of flavor in this one pot wonder.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Broth
Pour in the uncooked pasta and broth right into the pot. Give everything a good stir so the pasta is coated with the savory sausage mixture and starts soaking up the broth. This is when the magic of one-pot cooking really kicks in—no multiple pots or draining water. Everything cooks together and creates a deliciously concentrated sauce.
Step 4: Incorporate the Broccoli Rabe
Sprinkle the chopped broccoli rabe evenly across the top, then gently stir it through. This hearty green will soften as the pasta cooks but retain a satisfying bite and vibrant color that makes the dish as beautiful as it is tasty.
Step 5: Simmer Until Perfectly Tender
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes. This allows the pasta to cook al dente while absorbing most of the broth, turning the liquid into a luscious, flavorful sauce. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and check the pasta texture to avoid overcooking.
Step 6: Add the Bright and Creamy Finishes
Once the pasta is just right, stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and grated Parmesan cheese. These ingredients add a beautiful brightness and rich creaminess that tie the flavors together. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed to reach the perfect balance.
Step 7: Serve with Burrata and Optional Heat
Remove the pot from the heat and let it rest for a minute. Scoop generous portions onto plates and top each with a fresh ball of burrata. If you like a little spice, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top. The burrata melts luxuriously into the warm pasta, creating a rich, creamy contrast to the vibrant lemon and peppery broccoli rabe.
Step 8: Garnish and Enjoy
For a finishing touch, drizzle a bit more olive oil and add some fresh herbs if you have them on hand. These simple garnishes elevate the dish to an effortlessly elegant meal that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to dig in.
How to Serve One Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add a burst of color and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich burrata. A drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of lemon zest brings brightness to the plate. Red pepper flakes add a pop of color and a little heat for those who enjoy a kick.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty enough on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, try serving it with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or some crunchy garlic bread for dipping. A light, crisp white wine would be an excellent pairing too.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing presentation, serve the pasta family-style in a large rustic bowl with burrata torn right on top, allowing guests to combine creamy cheese and bright pasta themselves. Alternatively, plating individual portions with a small wedge of lemon on the side adds a lovely restaurant-quality touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the burrata separate if possible and only add it when serving to preserve its creamy texture and freshness.
Freezing
This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the cooked pasta and sausage mixture without the burrata. Freeze in a shallow container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently on the stovetop.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers slowly in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid microwaving the burrata—add fresh cheese after warming for the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta in the One Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata Recipe?
Absolutely! While orecchiette or penne works beautifully because they hold the sauce well, feel free to substitute with rigatoni, farfalle, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep cooking times in mind.
What can I substitute if I don’t have broccoli rabe?
Kale, spinach, or even broccolini make great alternatives. They will change the flavor slightly but still contribute lovely green color and texture.
Is it necessary to use fresh burrata?
Fresh burrata adds an indulgent creaminess that really sets this dish apart, but if you can’t find it, creamy fresh mozzarella or even ricotta can be good stand-ins.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Use a plant-based sausage or simply increase the amount of broccoli rabe and add mushrooms for extra umami. Use vegetable broth to keep the flavors bright and satisfying.
What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the lemon and sausage perfectly. For red lovers, a light Chianti or Barbera works nicely.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this One Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata Recipe enough if you crave a delicious, fuss-free meal that feels special. It’s the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas, looks stunning on the plate, and satisfies every craving at once. Give it a try, and I’m sure it will quickly become one of your go-to meals for cozy weeknights and entertaining alike!
Print
One Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 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 vibrant and comforting meal combining tender pasta cooked with spicy Italian sausage, slightly bitter broccoli rabe, zesty lemon, and creamy burrata cheese. Perfect for a quick yet flavorful dinner, this recipe balances savory, tangy, and fresh elements for an ultimate one-pot pasta experience.
Ingredients
Pasta and Broccoli Rabe
- 12 ounces pasta (preferably orecchiette or penne)
- 1 bunch broccoli rabe, trimmed and chopped
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, your choice)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Toppings
- Fresh burrata cheese, for topping
- Red pepper flakes, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the Italian sausage, breaking it into bite-sized pieces. Cook the sausage until it is browned and cooked through, approximately 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, making sure it does not brown or burn.
- Add Pasta and Broth: Pour in the uncooked pasta along with 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly in the pot.
- Incorporate Broccoli Rabe: Add the chopped broccoli rabe to the pot, distributing it evenly among the pasta mixture to ensure it cooks thoroughly.
- Simmer until Pasta is Al Dente: Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and simmer for about 12 to 15 minutes or until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Add Lemon and Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the mixture is creamy and well combined. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Prepare to Serve: Remove the pot from the heat and let it rest for one minute to allow flavors to meld.
- Top and Garnish: Serve the pasta topped with fresh burrata cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. For extra flavor, drizzle with olive oil and garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or basil.
Notes
- Use either sweet or spicy Italian sausage depending on your preferred heat level.
- Broccoli rabe adds a slightly bitter flavor; blanch briefly beforehand if you prefer a milder taste.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth.
- Do not overcook the pasta; al dente texture is essential for the best mouthfeel.
- The fresh burrata adds creaminess—if unavailable, fresh mozzarella can be used as a substitute.
