If you’re in the mood for a hearty yet fresh pasta dish that comes together in no time, One-Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata is the answer! This dish is packed with savory sausage, vibrant broccoli rabe, and a burst of citrusy lemon, all brought together in one pot for easy cleanup. And just when you think it can’t get any better, the creamy burrata on top adds a rich, melty finishing touch. Trust me, it’s the perfect comfort meal that still feels light and bright. You’re going to love how simple and delicious this is—one bite, and you’ll be hooked!
Why You’ll Love One-Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata
- Easy Cleanup: With just one pot required, this dish makes cleanup a breeze while still delivering bold, rich flavors.
- Zesty & Fresh: The lemon adds a refreshing twist that perfectly complements the savory sausage and the slightly bitter broccoli rabe.
- Rich & Creamy: The burrata melts beautifully into the pasta, adding a luxurious, creamy element that elevates the whole dish.
- Hearty & Filling: The sausage and pasta give this dish a comforting, satisfying vibe without being too heavy.
- Quick & Simple: You can make this dish in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something indulgent but easy.
Ingredients
- Italian Sausage: The star of this dish! Choose either sweet or spicy sausage, depending on your flavor preference.
- Pasta: Any type of short pasta will work, such as penne, rigatoni, or farfalle.
- Broccoli Rabe: A slightly bitter green that balances the richness of the sausage and adds a fresh, earthy flavor.
- Garlic: For that aromatic base that fills your kitchen with irresistible smells.
- Lemon: Zesty lemon juice and zest bring a burst of freshness and brightness to the dish.
- Burrata: The creamy, indulgent cheese that melts beautifully into the pasta for a rich, velvety finish.
- Olive Oil: To sauté the sausage and garlic.
- Chicken Broth: For a flavorful liquid that helps cook the pasta and adds depth to the sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of parmesan adds a savory, salty note to finish off the dish.
- Salt & Pepper: To taste, to enhance all the flavors.
(Note: Full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card below.)
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Broccoli Rabe
In the same pot, add a bit more olive oil if needed and sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the broccoli rabe and cook for about 3-4 minutes, just until it starts to wilt and soften.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Add the uncooked pasta to the pot, followed by the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let the pasta cook for 10-12 minutes, or until it’s al dente and the liquid has mostly absorbed.
Step 4: Combine the Sausage and Lemon
Once the pasta is cooked, return the sausage to the pot. Add the lemon juice and zest, and stir everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve with Burrata
Divide the pasta between bowls and top each serving with a generous spoonful of creamy burrata. Finish with a sprinkle of grated parmesan for extra flavor and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition for one serving (based on 4 servings total):
- Calories per serving: 550-600 calories
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Vitamin A: 20%
- Vitamin C: 50%
- Calcium: 25%
- Iron: 15%
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
How to Serve One-Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata
- As a Main Dish: This pasta is hearty enough to be served as a main course for dinner or lunch.
- Pair with a Side Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette would complement the dish perfectly.
- Add Crusty Bread: Serve with some garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up any leftover sauce—trust me, it’s the best part!
Additional Tips
- Make it Spicy: If you prefer a little heat, use spicy Italian sausage or add some crushed red pepper flakes to the dish.
- Use Other Greens: If you can’t find broccoli rabe, you can substitute with kale or spinach for a similar texture.
- Make it Vegetarian: Swap the sausage for roasted vegetables like mushrooms or eggplant for a delicious vegetarian version of this dish.
- Prep Ahead: You can cook the sausage and prep the vegetables in advance to save time when you’re ready to assemble the dish.
- Leftovers: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little extra chicken broth to loosen it up.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A1: Yes! Any short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli will work perfectly in this dish.
Q2: Can I use a different type of sausage?
A2: Absolutely! If you prefer turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based sausage, it will work just as well.
Q3: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A3: Yes! Simply swap the sausage for roasted vegetables, such as mushrooms, eggplant, or zucchini, for a delicious vegetarian version.
Q4: How can I make the pasta spicier?
A4: Use spicy Italian sausage, or add red pepper flakes to the dish to give it a little heat.
Q5: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A5: You can prep the sausage and broccoli rabe ahead of time, but I recommend cooking the pasta just before serving for the best texture.
Q6: Can I substitute burrata with something else?
A6: If you can’t find burrata, you can use fresh mozzarella or ricotta for a similar creamy finish.
Q7: How do I store leftovers?
A7: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat with a splash of chicken broth to restore the creamy texture.
Q8: Can I use a different green instead of broccoli rabe?
A8: Yes! Kale, spinach, or even arugula would work as a great substitute for broccoli rabe.
Q9: Can I add more vegetables to the dish?
A9: Absolutely! You can add roasted red peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even zucchini for more veggies and color.
Q10: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A10: Yes, just use gluten-free pasta in place of regular pasta, and the dish will be gluten-free.
Conclusion
One-Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata is the kind of dish that will wow your taste buds without overwhelming your kitchen. The bright lemony flavor pairs perfectly with the rich sausage and creamy burrata, making each bite a delight. And with the convenience of one-pot cooking, you’ll have minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. This is one meal you’ll want to make again and again! Try it today and treat yourself to a comforting, flavorful, and easy dinner!
PrintOne-Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This One-Pot Lemony Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Burrata is a simple, delicious, and comforting meal that’s packed with flavor. The zesty lemon pairs perfectly with the savory sausage and slightly bitter broccoli rabe, while the creamy burrata adds richness and luxury to every bite. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that’s easy to make and cleanup is a breeze!
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (such as spaghetti, orecchiette, or rigatoni)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, casings removed)
- 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)
- 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
- Cook the pasta:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside. - Cook the sausage:
In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage and set it aside. - Sauté the garlic and broccoli rabe:
In the same pot, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped broccoli rabe and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until it begins to soften. If desired, add red pepper flakes for a little heat. - Combine pasta, sausage, and broth:
Return the cooked sausage to the pot with the broccoli rabe. Add the cooked pasta and chicken broth. Stir to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce. Squeeze in lemon juice and zest, and season with salt and pepper to taste. - Add cheese:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with more lemon, salt, or pepper if needed. - Serve:
Plate the pasta and top with the burrata cheese, breaking it into pieces to allow it to melt into the hot pasta. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan, if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute the sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- If broccoli rabe is too bitter for your taste, blanch it in boiling water for 1-2 minutes before sautéing.
- Feel free to add a handful of toasted breadcrumbs on top for extra texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 60mg