Imagine twirling forkfuls of tender pasta tangled with spicy sausage, vibrant broccoli rabe, and pillowy clouds of burrata, all kissed with lemon and Parmesan. That’s exactly what you get with One-Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata—a dish that bursts with fresh flavor and elegant, Italian-inspired simplicity. Everything comes together in just one pot, making it perfect for busy nights while still feeling like the kind of meal you’d serve to impress your favorite people. The zesty lemon perks up every bite, the burrata adds lush creaminess, and the whole thing feels comfortingly special yet manageably easy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how just a handful of beautifully chosen ingredients can create a meal this vibrant and satisfying. Each element in One-Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata offers something unique—whether it’s richness, a punch of green, or that irresistible hint of tang.
- Pasta (12 oz orecchiette or penne): Orecchiette or penne scoop up all the saucy goodness and sausage crumbles perfectly.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Just enough to add silkiness and help the sausage brown beautifully.
- Italian sausage (1 pound, casings removed): Brings bold, savory flavor and a little spice depending on your sausage choice.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Infuses the whole pot with classic Italian warmth.
- Red pepper flakes (½ teaspoon, optional): Add a gentle heat if you love a little kick with your creamy pasta.
- Broccoli rabe (1 bunch, trimmed and chopped): Pops of green for both color and a pleasantly bitter edge—don’t skip this!
- Lemon (zest and juice of 1): The secret to making the entire dish taste bright and lively.
- Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated): Nutty, salty richness that ties everything together.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning every layer just right.
- Burrata cheese (8 oz, torn): Creamy, dramatic, and utterly irresistible when it melts over the pasta.
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish, optional): Scatters of freshness and a pop of color to finish the dish.
How to Make One-Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli Rabe
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and drop in your pasta of choice. During the last two or three minutes of cooking, add in the chopped broccoli rabe. This method not only saves time (and dishes) but also helps the broccoli rabe keep its color and just-tender bite. Before draining, be sure to reserve about a cup of the starchy pasta water—you’ll use it later to make your sauce perfectly silky.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
Once the pasta and broccoli rabe are drained, return the empty pot to the stove and heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula. Cook until it’s browned with crispy edges and no pink remains; this takes about six to eight minutes. The sausage adds savory depth and delicious fat that becomes the base of your sauce.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes
Sprinkle in the minced garlic and (if you like things a little spicy) a pinch of red pepper flakes. Let these cook just for a minute, stirring constantly, until the kitchen smells absolutely intoxicating. The garlic will become fragrant but be careful not to let it brown, as you want to infuse the oil without burning.
Step 4: Toss Everything Together
Return the drained pasta and broccoli rabe straight into the pot with your sausage and aromatics. Add the zest and juice of a lemon, plus that generous handful of Parmesan. Now, lift and toss everything together, drizzling in the reserved pasta water a little at a time. This creates a luscious sauce that lightly clings to every noodle. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper until it tastes just right.
Step 5: Add the Burrata and Serve
Off the heat, scatter torn burrata over the pasta. As it hits the warmth, it melts slightly into creamy puddles that mingle with the sausage and lemony sauce. Spoon the One-Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata into shallow bowls and finish with an extra dusting of Parmesan, and fresh basil or parsley if you like. The result is as stunning as it is scrumptious!
How to Serve One-Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata
Garnishes
This dish already has its star topping with the burrata, but don’t underestimate a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for an extra burst of color and aroma. A generous grating of fresh Parmesan right at the table seals in that restaurant-level finish.
Side Dishes
One-Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata is hearty enough to shine solo, but if you want to round out the meal, try pairing it with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some crusty bread to mop up the delicious sauce. A chilled glass of Italian white wine makes everything feel even more special.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dramatic touch, bring the pot straight to the table and let everyone serve themselves, rustic family-style. Alternatively, swirl the pasta into individual shallow bowls, layering chunks of burrata on top for a picture-perfect finish. Want to go extra fancy? Garnish with lemon zest strips and edible flowers for a springtime dinner party centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have extra One-Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata, let it cool, then pop it into an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days. The flavors will deepen, though the burrata will firm up a bit, so save a fresh ball if you want that signature creaminess on day two!
Freezing
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the pasta, sausage, and broccoli rabe mixture for up to a month. Just be sure to leave out the burrata before freezing, as its delicate texture doesn’t thaw well. Add a fresh scoop after reheating for that original, creamy finish.
Reheating
To reheat One-Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata, add a splash of water or broth to the pan and warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently. For a quick lunch, microwaving in a covered dish works too. Add fresh burrata or mozzarella after reheating for best results.
FAQs
What if I can’t find broccoli rabe?
If broccoli rabe isn’t available, swap in broccolini or regular broccoli florets. Both provide that lovely green crunch, though broccoli rabe’s slight bitterness is especially delightful with the richness of sausage and cheese.
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! Mild or spicy Italian sausage both work well in this recipe. If you prefer chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter twist, go for it—it’ll still bring loads of flavor.
Is there a gluten-free version of One-Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata?
Yes! Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta and check that your sausage and cheese are certified gluten-free. The method and flavors will be just as delicious with these swaps.
What can I use if I don’t have burrata?
Fresh mozzarella torn into chunks is a great substitute, offering a milky creaminess. Ricotta dolloped on top is another lovely choice. If you want to go dairy-free, try a cashew-based cheese alternative.
Can I make this dish ahead for a dinner party?
The pasta and sausage can be made a few hours ahead and reheated gently. Hold off on adding the burrata until just before serving so it melts beautifully and doesn’t lose its creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re feeding family on a busy weeknight or gathering friends for a joyful meal, One-Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The bright flavors, lush texture, and cheerful colors will make this recipe a staple at your table. If you’re looking to add a new favorite to your repertoire, this is the one to try—trust me, you’ll be dreaming of that first creamy, lemony bite!
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One-Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This One-Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata is a delightful Italian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of zesty lemon, savory sausage, bitter broccoli rabe, and creamy burrata cheese in a single pot. It’s a quick and flavorful meal perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (orecchiette or penne work well)
Sausage Mixture:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Additions:
- 1 bunch broccoli rabe (trimmed and chopped)
- zest and juice of 1 lemon
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- salt and black pepper to taste
- 8 oz burrata cheese (torn into pieces)
- fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta and Broccoli Rabe: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta per package instructions, adding broccoli rabe during the last 2–3 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain both.
- Prepare Sausage Mixture: In the same pot, heat olive oil and cook sausage until browned. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute.
- Combine Ingredients: Return pasta and broccoli rabe to the pot. Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and Parmesan. Toss, adding reserved water until saucy. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Transfer to bowls, top with burrata, and garnish with basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- If broccoli rabe is too bitter, blanch it separately for 1 minute before adding it to the pasta.
- Burrata can be swapped with fresh mozzarella for a simpler alternative.
- This dish is best enjoyed warm to savor the creamy burrata.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
