Description
This One Pot Lemon Basil, Asparagus, and Sausage Pasta is a vibrant, creamy, and comforting dish that combines zesty lemon, fresh basil, tender asparagus, and savory sausage all cooked together in one pot for easy cleanup and maximum flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 12 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
- 1 lb. sausage (Italian sausage or chicken sausage)
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk (or heavy cream for richness)
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat to prepare for cooking the sausage.
- Cook the Sausage: Remove the sausage from its casing and crumble it into the heated pot. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant to release the flavors.
- Add Pasta and Asparagus: Add the pasta along with the chopped asparagus pieces, stirring to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Add Liquids and Lemon: Pour in the chicken broth, whole milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Add Basil and Season: Stir in the chopped fresh basil, then season the pasta with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve the pasta hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired for added richness and flavor.
Notes
- Use your favorite pasta shape; penne or fusilli work well for holding the sauce.
- For a richer dish, substitute whole milk with heavy cream.
- Red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted for heat preference.
- Make sure to trim and cut asparagus into even pieces for even cooking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
