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.