Description

One Pot Melty Burrata Lemon Pesto Pasta is a delightful Italian-inspired dish that combines al dente pasta with vibrant lemon pesto, halved cherry tomatoes, and rich, creamy burrata cheese. This recipe is quick and simple, cooked entirely in one pot on the stovetop, making it perfect for a satisfying and flavorful weeknight meal. The addition of fresh basil and lemon wedges adds brightness and freshness to every bite.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

12 ounces pasta (such as rigatoni or penne)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Wet Ingredients & Flavorings

1 tablespoon olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1/2 cup reserved pasta water
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Produce & Dairy

1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
2 balls fresh burrata cheese (about 4 ounces each)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Lemon wedges for serving

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Instructions

Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente, following package instructions. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
Mix Sauce: Stir in the basil pesto, lemon zest, lemon juice, and grated Parmesan cheese to the sautéed garlic mixture, combining well to create a flavorful sauce base.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Return the cooked pasta to the pot. Add halved cherry tomatoes and the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together gently until the pasta is evenly coated, and the tomatoes slightly soften, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Serve: Remove the pot from heat. Transfer the pasta to serving bowls. Tear the fresh burrata cheese over the top of each serving and sprinkle with chopped fresh basil. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for extra brightness.

Notes

Use gluten-free pasta if accommodating gluten sensitivities.
For added protein, try incorporating grilled chicken or shrimp.
Burrata is best enjoyed fresh; assemble the dish right before serving to preserve its creamy texture.