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Basil Pesto Rigatoni with Burrata & Toasted Almonds

Basil Pesto Rigatoni with Burrata & Toasted Almonds


  • Author: Lisa
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Basil Pesto Rigatoni with Burrata & Toasted Almonds is the ultimate 20-minute pasta dish that feels gourmet but is incredibly easy to make. Perfectly cooked rigatoni is tossed in a vibrant basil pesto, crowned with creamy burrata, and finished with crunchy toasted almonds for an irresistible texture contrast. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal to impress, this recipe delivers bold, fresh flavors with minimal effort.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

 

  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta
  • ½ cup basil pesto (homemade or high-quality store-bought)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 ball burrata cheese
  • ¼ cup toasted almonds, roughly chopped
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

  • Cook the Pasta:

    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
    • Add rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
    • Before draining, reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
  • Warm the Pesto:

    • In a large skillet over low heat, combine olive oil and basil pesto.
    • Stir gently to warm through without overheating.
  • Toss the Pasta:

    • Add drained rigatoni to the skillet and toss until evenly coated.
    • If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce.
  • Add Cheese & Seasonings:

    • Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and black pepper.
  • Assemble & Garnish:

    • Divide pasta among serving bowls.
    • Tear the burrata and place on top of each portion.
    • Sprinkle with toasted almonds, red pepper flakes (if using), and fresh basil.

 

  • Serve & Enjoy:

    • Serve immediately while the burrata melts into the warm pasta.

Notes

  • Use High-Quality Pesto for the best flavor. Try this Spinach Basil Pesto Recipe for a fresh homemade version!
  • Reserve Pasta Water – It helps create a silky sauce.
  • Customize It: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted veggies for variety.

 

  • Make It Vegan: Use dairy-free pesto and swap burrata for cashew cheese.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 480 kcal
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 310mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 14g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: Basil pesto rigatoni, burrata pasta, easy pesto pasta, 20-minute pasta, vegetarian rigatoni