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.

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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.

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

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Ingredient Swaps and Notes

This pasta dish is easy to customize based on what you have available.

Pasta alternatives
Penne, ziti, or fusilli work well in place of rigatoni.

Cheese options
If burrata isn’t available, fresh mozzarella can be used as a substitute.

Pesto variations
Sun-dried tomato pesto or spinach pesto can add a unique twist.

Add-ins

• Grilled chicken
• Roasted cherry tomatoes
• Sautéed mushrooms
• Baby spinach

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente.

Drain and set aside.

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2. Prepare the Pesto Mixture

In a large bowl, combine:

• Basil pesto
• Lemon juice
• Lemon zest
• Fresh thyme leaves

Mix well to combine.

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3. Toss the Pasta

Add the cooked rigatoni to the bowl and toss until the pasta is evenly coated with the lemony pesto mixture.

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4. Transfer to a Baking Dish

Spread the pasta evenly in an oven-safe baking dish.

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5. Add the Burrata

Tear the burrata into pieces and scatter it across the top of the pasta.

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6. Add Parmesan and Olive Oil

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the pasta and drizzle with olive oil.

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7. Broil

Place the dish under the broiler for 3–5 minutes, until the cheese melts and the top becomes lightly golden.

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8. Finish and Serve

Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Garnish with additional thyme leaves and serve warm.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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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More Recipes You’ll Love

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

• Fettuccine Alfredo: The Creamy Pasta That Became a Comfort Food Favorite
• Easy Classic Pasta Salad for Any Gathering
• Easy Homemade Caesar Salad with Chicken

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

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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. 🍝✨