This creamy burrata pasta is the perfect dish for a quick and tasty dinner. With its rich sauce and silky burrata cheese, every bite is a warm hug for your taste buds!
You won’t believe how simple it is to make. Just cook the pasta, toss in some garlic and tomatoes, and add the burrata on top. Quick, delicious, and fancy enough to impress anyone! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using fettuccine or linguine for a nice, silky texture. However, penne or rigatoni are great options too! If you’re gluten-free, try using gluten-free pasta; it will work just as well.
Burrata Cheese: Burrata is the star of this dish! If burrata isn’t available, fresh mozzarella or cream cheese can be a suitable substitute. While it won’t be as creamy, it still adds a nice touch to the pasta.
Cherry Tomatoes: Any ripe tomatoes can be used if you don’t have cherry tomatoes on hand. Just chop them into smaller pieces. In a pinch, you could also use canned diced tomatoes.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk. If you want a dairy-free option, try using coconut cream or a nut-based cream alternative.
How Do I Cook the Perfect Pasta?
Cooking pasta is simple, but getting it just right is key. Follow these steps to cook pasta like a pro:
- Always start with a large pot of well-salted water; it should taste like the sea! This helps flavor the pasta.
- Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the pasta. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check for doneness a minute before the package says it should be ready. You want it al dente, which means it’ll still have a slight bite.
- Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water! This starchy water is great for adjusting the sauce consistency later.
Following these tips will help you cook pasta that perfectly complements the creamy sauce.
Creamy Burrata Pasta Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (such as fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Toppings:
- 1 ball (about 8 oz) burrata cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, for a bit of heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy burrata pasta will take about 20 minutes in total – 10 minutes for preparation and about 10 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and tasty dinner that’s ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Don’t forget to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta in a colander!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant—just be careful not to let it brown.
3. Add the Cherry Tomatoes:
Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook them for around 3-4 minutes until they soften and start to release their juices, creating a nice sauce.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Now, it’s time to stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook and stir for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens up a bit. It’s getting delicious!
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the drained pasta into the skillet, tossing it gently to coat in the creamy tomato sauce. If you find the sauce is a bit too thick, add some reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Season to Taste:
Season the pasta with salt, pepper, and add crushed red pepper flakes if you want some extra heat. Mix everything to combine the flavors beautifully.
7. Serve with Burrata:
Transfer the creamy pasta to serving plates. Top each plate with a ball of burrata cheese; the warmth of the pasta will make it melt slightly, creating a luxurious finish.
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish your dish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor and color. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious creamy burrata pasta for dinner!
This dish is quick, creamy, and will definitely impress your family or guests. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Creamy Burrata Pasta
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine, linguine, or penne are great choices, feel free to use any pasta you prefer or have on hand. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
What if I Can’t Find Burrata Cheese?
No worries! If burrata isn’t available, fresh mozzarella or even cream cheese can work as a substitute. They may not have the same creaminess, but they still add a delicious texture to the pasta.
Can I Make This Pasta Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce in advance! Just store them separately in the refrigerator and reheat them together on the stove when you’re ready to serve. If the sauce has thickened, add a splash of pasta water for creaminess again.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so on low heat and stir in a little extra cream or reserved pasta water to bring back the original texture.
Feel free to reach out if you have any more questions about this delicious recipe! Enjoy your cooking!
