Description
This One Pot Lemon Basil, Asparagus, and Sausage Pasta is a vibrant and comforting American main course that combines zesty lemon, fresh basil, tender asparagus, and savory Italian sausage with perfectly cooked pasta. All cooked together in one pot for a quick, easy, and flavorful dinner that’s creamy and delightful without the need for heavy sauces.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Vegetables
- 12 ounces Italian sausage, sliced into rounds or half-moons
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
Carbohydrates and Liquids
- 12 ounces dry pasta such as penne or rotini
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
Flavorings and Garnishes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional red pepper flakes, to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the sliced Italian sausage and cook until browned. Remove excess grease if necessary to prevent sogginess and ensure a clean flavor base.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until softened and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook briefly, just until fragrant, about 30 seconds, to avoid burning.
- Add Pasta and Liquids: Add the dry pasta, asparagus pieces, chicken broth, water, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir everything well to combine and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer Until Tender: Reduce the heat to a steady simmer and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. This should take approximately 12 to 15 minutes.
- Finish the Sauce: Stir in the fresh lemon juice, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped basil until the sauce becomes creamy and everything is well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or optional red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve: Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if you like, for a delicious and hearty one-pot meal.
Notes
- For a lighter option, use chicken or turkey sausage instead of Italian pork sausage.
- When reheating leftovers, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out.
- You can substitute penne or rotini with any similar-shaped pasta you prefer.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your desired spice level.
