This creamy burrata pasta is a delightful dish that’s quick to whip up. It features soft burrata cheese that melts beautifully over warm pasta, making each bite rich and comforting.
If you’re like me and love a meal that feels fancy but is super easy, this one’s a winner! Just toss it all together and enjoy a bowl of happiness in no time. 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti can all work well for this dish. I personally love using fettuccine because it captures the creamy sauce nicely, but any pasta will do! You can swap in whole grain or gluten-free pasta if needed.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds great flavor, but you can use any cooking oil like avocado or canola in a pinch. Just keep in mind that the taste might change slightly.
Burrata Cheese: If burrata isn’t available, fresh mozzarella is a good substitute, though it won’t be as creamy. You could also use ricotta for a different texture.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or coconut milk, but the sauce will be thinner. A dairy-free cream would also work as a replacement.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives that rich flavor, but you can use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option while still keeping a cheesy taste.
How Do You Create the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
The key to making a great creamy sauce is to gradually build flavors and ensure the right consistency. Start by heating the garlic in olive oil; this brings out its sweetness without burning it. Here’s how to nail it:
- Cook garlic until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes, to avoid bitterness.
- Keep the cream on medium heat until it simmers gently; avoiding boiling helps it thicken properly.
- Gradually stir in Parmesan, allowing it to melt fully before adding pasta; this creates a smooth, cohesive sauce.
- If the sauce gets too thick, gradually incorporate reserved pasta water until desired creaminess is achieved.
This method will help you achieve a creamy pasta that feels luxurious without being complicated! Enjoy your cooking!
Creamy Burrata Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 ball (about 8 oz) burrata cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Red pepper flakes (optional), for a mild heat
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy burrata pasta recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 15 minutes for cooking, making it a total of approximately 25 minutes from start to finish. Quick, easy, and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta of your choice and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Remember to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 to 2 minutes, stirring regularly, until the garlic becomes fragrant but be careful not to let it brown as this can make it bitter.
3. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Next, pour in the heavy cream into the skillet. Gently bring it to a simmer, letting it cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Now, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it fully melts and combines into a smooth, creamy sauce. Taste and season with salt and black pepper.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce, tossing it gently to ensure every noodle is coated. If you find that the sauce is too thick, you can add a little reserved pasta water at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
5. Add the Burrata:
Transfer the creamy pasta to serving plates or a large serving bowl. Tear the burrata cheese into large chunks and place it generously over the warm pasta, allowing it to soften and melt slightly as it comes into contact with the heat.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your pasta with fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, and lemon zest if you want a touch of brightness. Serve immediately and enjoy your rich, creamy burrata pasta!
This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner that feels indulgent but is oh-so-easy to prepare! Enjoy every delicious bite!
FAQ for Creamy Burrata Pasta
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine, linguine, and spaghetti are great choices, you can use any type of pasta you have on hand. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to bring back some creaminess.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian-Friendly?
Yes! The recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, and you can keep it that way by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if you choose to add it. The creamy sauce from the burrata and Parmesan is rich enough without any meat.
What Can I Substitute for Burrata Cheese?
If burrata isn’t available, fresh mozzarella is a suitable substitute, although it won’t be quite as creamy. Alternatively, you can use ricotta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile. Just remember to adjust the amount based on your taste preference!
