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Baked Rigatoni with Burrata, Basil Pesto, and Lemon

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Rigatoni tossed in lemony basil pesto and topped with creamy burrata and Parmesan, broiled until golden and bubbly.

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Prep10 minutes
Cook15 minutes
Total25
Serves4 servings
540741609_122270625446235274_790847148820745139_n

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Baked Rigatoni with Burrata, Basil Pesto, and Lemon

Rigatoni tossed in lemony basil pesto and topped with creamy burrata and Parmesan, broiled until golden and bubbly.

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Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
25
Yield
4 servings
Course
Dinner
Cuisine
Not listed
Servings
4 servings
Calories
410 calories

Ingredients

  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta
  • 1 ball burrata cheese
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, mix basil pesto with lemon juice, lemon zest, and fresh thyme leaves.
  3. Add the cooked rigatoni to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the pesto mixture.
  4. Transfer the pasta to an oven-safe baking dish.
  5. Tear the burrata into pieces and scatter it over the pasta.
  6. Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the top and drizzle with olive oil.
  7. Place under the broiler for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
  8. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper and garnish with additional thyme leaves before serving.

Nutrition

Calories410 calories
Protein15 g
Carbohydrates47 g
Fat18 g
SodiumNot listed
SugarNot listed
FiberNot listed

Burrata Rigatoni with Lemon-Thyme Pesto Crust

If you're looking for a pasta dish that feels both elegant and effortless, this Burrata Rigatoni with Lemon-Thyme Pesto Crust delivers the perfect balance of fresh flavors and creamy comfort.

Rigatoni pasta is tossed in a vibrant basil pesto brightened with lemon juice and zest, then topped with rich, creamy burrata and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. A quick trip under the broiler melts everything into a golden, bubbly topping with irresistible flavor.

The result is a pasta dish that feels restaurant-worthy yet comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual dinner gatherings.

Why I Love This Recipe

This recipe proves that simple ingredients can create incredible flavor.

The pesto provides bold herbaceous notes, while lemon adds brightness that keeps the dish light and fresh. Burrata melts into the pasta, creating pockets of creamy richness that contrast beautifully with the crispy Parmesan crust formed under the broiler.

It’s also incredibly versatile. Serve it as a main course or pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal.

If you love comforting pasta dishes, Fettuccine Alfredo: The Creamy Pasta That Became a Comfort Food Favorite is another classic worth trying.

Tips for Success

Cook pasta al dente
The pasta will continue cooking slightly under the broiler.

Use high-quality pesto
Fresh basil pesto provides the best flavor.

Watch the broiler closely
The topping can brown quickly, so keep an eye on it.

Add burrata just before broiling
This keeps it creamy rather than fully melted.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This pasta pairs beautifully with light sides that balance its creamy richness.

A fresh salad like Easy Homemade Caesar Salad with Chicken provides a crisp contrast.

For gatherings, Easy Classic Pasta Salad for Any Gathering makes a refreshing addition to the table.

For quick lunches later in the week, recipes like The Ultimate Turkey Club Wrap for Easy Lunches or Classic Tuna Salad with a Healthy No-Mayo Twist are also great options.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 410
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Carbohydrates: 47 g
  • Protein: 15 g

This dish offers a satisfying balance of creamy cheese, hearty pasta, and fresh herbs.

Storage and Leftover Tips

Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheating
Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Extra tip
Add a splash of olive oil before reheating to keep the pasta from drying out.

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If you enjoy comforting pasta dishes and easy dinners, try these next:

These recipes are simple, delicious, and perfect for everyday cooking.

Final Thoughts

This Burrata Rigatoni with Lemon-Thyme Pesto Crust is proof that quick dinners can still feel special. With bright lemony pesto, creamy burrata, and a golden Parmesan crust, it’s packed with fresh Mediterranean-inspired flavor.

It’s an easy pasta dish that works for weeknight dinners, dinner parties, or anytime you’re craving something comforting yet elegant.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Share your feedback and follow along for more delicious recipes from Jason Griffith at Chef Maniac. 🍝✨

Why You?ll Love This Recipe

This Baked Rigatoni with Burrata, Basil Pesto, and Lemon is built for home cooks who want a reliable Dinner without turning dinner or dessert into a project. The ingredient list stays approachable, the method is clear, and the finished dish gives you the kind of comfort-food payoff that makes a recipe worth saving.

Because the recipe card below keeps the exact measurements and steps organized, this article focuses on the practical details that help the recipe come out better: timing, texture, ingredient choices, storage, serving ideas, and simple ways to adjust the flavor for your table.

Tips for the Best Results

Use the listed times as a guide, but remember that cookware, appliance strength, ingredient size, and starting temperature can all affect the final result. This recipe lists 10 minutes of prep time, 15 minutes of cook time, and about 25 total time, which makes it easier to plan around dinner, parties, or weekend cooking.

Season thoughtfully. Many comfort-food recipes use flavorful packaged ingredients, cheese, sauces, or seasoning blends, and those can vary in salt level. Taste when it is safe to do so, then adjust at the end. A small amount of acid, fresh herbs, black pepper, or a creamy topping can make the finished dish feel more balanced.

Easy Variations

You can adapt this recipe based on what your family likes. Keep the main method the same, then change the seasoning, topping, vegetable, or serving style. If you want more heat, add a spicy element. If you want something milder, reduce strong seasonings and finish with a creamy or fresh topping.

For a heartier version, serve it with a simple side such as rice, potatoes, salad, bread, or roasted vegetables. For a lighter version, pair it with crisp greens or fresh fruit, depending on whether the recipe is savory or sweet.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator once the food has cooled. Most cooked dishes keep well for three to four days, while many desserts keep best when covered tightly so they do not dry out.

Reheat gently when possible. A microwave is convenient for individual portions, but an oven, skillet, or air fryer can help bring back texture when the recipe has a crisp, baked, or toasted element.

What to Serve With It

This recipe makes 4 servings, so it can work as a main dish, side, dessert, or shareable recipe depending on the category. For savory recipes, pair it with something fresh or simple so the meal does not feel too heavy. A salad, roasted vegetable, bread, rice, or potatoes can round out the plate.

For sweeter recipes, serve smaller portions with coffee, milk, whipped cream, fresh fruit, or a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream. The goal is to support the main flavor rather than cover it up.

Food Safety and Doneness

Use visual cues and safe cooking temperatures when judging doneness. For meat, poultry, seafood, and egg-based recipes, an instant-read thermometer is the most reliable tool. You can review official guidance on the USDA safe minimum internal temperature chart.

For baked goods and desserts, look for the texture cues in the recipe card: set centers, golden edges, clean tester marks, or proper chilling time. Letting a recipe rest before serving often improves texture and makes slicing or plating easier.

Food Safety Source

For safe cooking temperatures and food handling basics, see the USDA safe minimum internal temperature chart.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Baked Rigatoni with Burrata, Basil Pesto, and Lemon ahead of time?

You can usually prepare some parts ahead of time, but follow the storage and reheating notes in the recipe for the best texture and food safety.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Use the storage instructions on this page when available, and reheat gently until hot.

Can I change the ingredients?

Yes. Most home-style recipes can be adjusted for taste, but keep the core cooking method and safe internal temperatures in mind when changing proteins or cook times.

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