If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug with every forkful, then the One Pot Melty Burrata Lemon Pesto Pasta Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. This recipe marries the luscious creaminess of burrata cheese with zesty lemon and aromatic basil pesto, all cooked effortlessly in one pot for maximum flavor and minimum cleanup. The vibrant cherry tomatoes add bursts of sweetness, while the hint of garlic and red pepper flakes bring that gentle kick of depth you’ll love. Every bite is a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and fresh that’s as stunning on the plate as it is on your palate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the thoughtful harmony of each ingredient. Every component plays a crucial role, from the brightness of the lemon to the silky texture of the burrata, creating a dish that’s fresh, satisfying, and colorful.
- 12 ounces spaghetti or linguine: Choose your favorite long pasta to soak up all those delightful flavors perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps gently sauté the garlic and red pepper flakes.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant base and a subtle bite that enhances the pesto’s herbaceous notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds just the right amount of heat to keep things interesting.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Delivers vibrant citrus aroma that lifts the entire dish.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Provides a fresh, tangy brightness that brightens the creamy elements.
- 1/2 cup jarred or homemade basil pesto: Infuses the pasta with deep herbal richness and a lovely green color.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce, giving a salty, nutty depth that’s truly addictive.
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved: Pop in bursts of juicy sweetness and a fresh, summery vibe.
- 2 1/2 cups water or low-sodium vegetable broth: The cooking liquid that brings everything together and helps the pasta cook perfectly.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
- 8 ounces burrata cheese (2 small balls): The star ingredient that melts luxuriously into the pasta, making every bite creamy and dreamy.
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish: Add a pop of color and fresh herbal aroma just before serving.
How to Make One Pot Melty Burrata Lemon Pesto Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Aromatic Base
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté them for about a minute until your kitchen fills with a fragrant, irresistible aroma. This step creates a flavorful foundation that will complement the lemon and pesto perfectly.
Step 2: Add Fresh and Flavorful Ingredients
Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, pesto, halved cherry tomatoes, dry pasta, and water or broth directly into the pot. Sprinkle in a pinch of salt and some black pepper to taste. Give everything a stir to combine—the visuals of vibrant yellow, green, and red will have your mouth watering already.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta to Perfection
Bring the mixture up to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered, stirring occasionally for about 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on the pasta’s texture; you want it al dente. Most of the liquid should be absorbed by this point, creating a luscious, sauce-like coating that’s just begging for cheese.
Step 4: Create a Creamy Finish
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese while the pasta is still hot—watch how the cheese melts and enriches the sauce, making it incredibly creamy and silky. Then, immediately remove the pot from heat to keep the sauce smooth and luscious.
Step 5: Add the Magical Burrata
Gently tear the burrata balls and nestle them over the warm pasta. The gentle heat will coax the burrata to melt deliciously into the dish, creating pockets of creamy heaven throughout. This step is truly what makes the One Pot Melty Burrata Lemon Pesto Pasta Recipe unforgettable.
How to Serve One Pot Melty Burrata Lemon Pesto Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves scattered on top add a burst of herbaceous green and a delightful aroma that complements the pesto beautifully. For an extra touch, you might sprinkle a little more grated Parmesan or even a crack of fresh black pepper right before serving.
Side Dishes
Since this pasta is rich and flavorful, it pairs wonderfully with light and crisp sides. Think a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or garlic roasted asparagus. Both options add freshness and balance, highlighting the pasta’s creamy texture without overwhelming your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting, consider serving the One Pot Melty Burrata Lemon Pesto Pasta Recipe family-style, right from the skillet in the center of the table. The rustic presentation invites everyone to dig in and enjoy the gooey, melty burrata moments together. Alternatively, plate it individually and add a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for an elegant touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The burrata texture will change once chilled, so it’s best to store the cheese separately if you anticipate leftovers and add it fresh when reheating.
Freezing
This pasta is best enjoyed fresh because the burrata’s creamy texture doesn’t freeze well. However, if you must freeze it, skip the burrata and freeze the pesto pasta base. Thaw in the fridge overnight and stir in fresh burrata after reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat your pasta on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce as needed. Once warmed through, add fresh torn burrata on top for that signature melty texture and creamy richness.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti or linguine are recommended, you can easily swap in penne, fusilli, or any pasta you prefer. Just keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly.
Is it possible to make this vegan?
Yes, you can use vegan pesto and substitute the Parmesan and burrata with plant-based alternatives. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for that cheesy flavor, and vegan mozzarella can offer a melty texture.
How spicy is the recipe if I include red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle, warming heat that elevates the flavor without overpowering the dish. You can always adjust the amount to your taste or omit them for a milder meal.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
The stovetop one pot method is quick and best done fresh, but you can prepare the pesto lemon mixture ahead and combine it with cooked pasta later—just be sure to add fresh burrata right before serving for the best texture.
What protein pairs well with this pasta?
Grilled chicken or shrimp are fantastic accompaniments if you want to boost protein content. They complement the lemon and pesto flavors splendidly and make the dish more substantial.
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Melty Burrata Lemon Pesto Pasta Recipe is a celebration of simple ingredients elevated to something truly spectacular and deeply comforting. The ease of cooking everything in one pot means you can enjoy a gourmet-inspired meal without the fuss. Trust me, once you try this creamy, tangy, and cheesy delight, it’ll be your go-to pasta dish for both laid-back weeknights and special occasions alike. So grab your skillet, invite a friend, and get ready to savor every melty, lemony bite together!
Print
One Pot Melty Burrata Lemon Pesto Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and flavorful one pot melty burrata lemon pesto pasta that’s easy to make and perfect for a vegetarian dinner. This Italian-inspired recipe combines fresh lemon, basil pesto, cherry tomatoes, and gooey burrata cheese with perfectly cooked spaghetti for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 ounces spaghetti or linguine
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup jarred or homemade basil pesto
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 1/2 cups water or low-sodium vegetable broth
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Finishing Touches
- 8 ounces burrata cheese (2 small balls)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Heat Oil and Sauté Aromatics: In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Flavorings and Pasta: Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, basil pesto, halved cherry tomatoes, dry pasta, and water or vegetable broth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered. Stir occasionally for 10 to 12 minutes until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Melt in Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
- Add Burrata: Remove the skillet from heat. Gently tear the burrata balls and place them over the warm pasta. Let them melt slightly into the dish.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Use short pasta like penne or fusilli instead of spaghetti if preferred.
- Top with grilled chicken or shrimp for an added protein boost.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice to taste for more brightness or acidity.
