Why Make This Recipe
Sausage & Broccoli Burrata Pasta is a delicious and comforting meal that combines savory sausage, fresh broccoli, and creamy burrata. This dish is easy to make and perfect for any day of the week. It’s a great choice for families or gatherings, offering a balance of flavors and textures that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to include veggies in your pasta!
How to Make Sausage & Broccoli Burrata Pasta
Ingredients:
- Kosher salt
- 1 lb. mezze rigatoni
- 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided, plus more for drizzling
- 1 lb. sweet Italian sausage
- 1 lb. broccoli florets, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 medium shallot, finely chopped
- 8 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 Tbsp. chopped fresh tarragon (optional)
- 1 Tbsp. finely grated lemon zest
- 1 Tbsp. finely sliced fresh basil
- 3 oz. Pecorino Romano, finely grated (about 1 1/2 c.)
- 8 oz. burrata, torn into thirds
- Freshly ground black pepper
Directions:
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta, stirring occasionally, until very al dente, about 6 to 8 minutes. Reserve about 2 cups of pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it into large chunks. Cook until golden brown and crispy, about 8 to 10 minutes, then transfer to a plate.
- In the same skillet, heat another tablespoon of oil. Add the broccoli and season with 1 teaspoon of salt. Cook until caramelized and tender, about 6 to 8 minutes. Transfer the broccoli to the plate with the sausage.
- In the same skillet, heat the last tablespoon of oil. Add the chopped shallot and garlic; cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the heavy cream, tarragon (if using), lemon zest, basil, and the drained pasta. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt. Increase heat to medium, bring to a simmer, and cook until the pasta is al dente, about 5 to 6 minutes more.
- Remove from heat and stir in the grated Pecorino Romano, sausage, and broccoli.
- To serve, top with torn burrata, drizzle with olive oil, and season with freshly ground black pepper.
How to Serve Sausage & Broccoli Burrata Pasta
Serve this dish warm, topped with creamy burrata and a drizzle of olive oil. Pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It’s a hearty pasta dish that works well for lunch or dinner.
How to Store Sausage & Broccoli Burrata Pasta
To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely. Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last about 3 to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to restore its creamy texture.
Tips to Make Sausage & Broccoli Burrata Pasta
- For extra flavor, try using spicy Italian sausage instead of sweet.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative.
- Use fresh herbs for the best taste. If fresh tarragon is hard to find, you can leave it out or use dried herbs instead.
Variation
You can add other vegetables like spinach or asparagus to the dish for more variety. Additionally, different types of cheese, like mozzarella or goat cheese, can be used in place of burrata.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, you can use your favorite pasta shape, such as penne or fusilli.
Q: Is burrata necessary for this recipe?
A: While burrata adds creaminess, you can substitute it with ricotta or skip it altogether if you prefer.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sausage and broccoli in advance. Just combine everything just before serving for the best flavor.
