Description
This creamy one pot rigatoni recipe features a luscious basil-pistachio pesto sauce combined with tender pasta and topped with rich burrata cheese. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a comforting Italian main course perfect for a quick yet impressive meal. The pistachios add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, while the burrata melts into the creamy sauce for an indulgent finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Toppings and Garnish
- 1/3 cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
- 1 ball (4 ounces) burrata cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil and Garlic: In a large deep skillet or pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes if using, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Add Rigatoni and Liquids: Pour in 12 ounces of uncooked rigatoni pasta, then add 3 cups of vegetable broth and 1/2 cup heavy cream. Stir gently to combine.
- Simmer Pasta: Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Cook uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes or until the pasta is al dente and the liquid has mostly reduced into a creamy sauce.
- Incorporate Pesto and Cheese: Stir in 1/2 cup basil pesto and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy, flavorful sauce.
- Season: Taste and adjust seasoning by adding salt and black pepper as needed.
- Finish with Burrata and Pistachios: Remove the pot from the heat. Top the creamy pasta with dollops of the 4-ounce burrata cheese. Sprinkle 1/3 cup chopped pistachios evenly over the dish.
- Garnish and Serve: Add fresh basil leaves as garnish and serve immediately while warm and creamy.
Notes
- You can use store-bought or homemade basil pesto for convenience or enhanced flavor.
- For extra protein, add grilled chicken or shrimp to the dish.
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version without sacrificing creaminess.
