This creamy burrata pasta is a simple and tasty dish you’ll love! With rich burrata cheese melting into a warm pasta sauce, it makes for a cozy meal in no time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using fettuccine or spaghetti for their ability to hold the creamy sauce well. But if you’re not a fan, penne or even gluten-free pasta works great too!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or even whole milk. Just keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich and creamy.
Burrata Cheese: Burrata adds an amazing creaminess. If you can’t find it, you can use fresh mozzarella. Just slice it and place it on top like burrata for a melt-in-your-mouth effect.
Olive Oil: This gives flavor and richness. Avocado oil or even butter can be used if you prefer a different taste.
How Do I Get My Sauce Perfectly Creamy?
Getting that dreamy, creamy sauce requires the right technique. After sautéing the garlic, gently simmer the cream to thicken it. Here’s how:
- Cook the cream on low heat to avoid burning.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese gradually to ensure it melts evenly.
- If the sauce gets too thick, use the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency!
This way, you’ll end up with a sauce that beautifully clings to every strand of pasta.
How to Make Creamy Burrata Pasta?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 ball (about 8 oz/225 g) burrata cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Optional: red pepper flakes, cherry tomatoes halved, or lemon zest for added flavor
Time Needed
This creamy burrata pasta recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish! You’ll just need a few minutes to cook the pasta and make the sauce, making it perfect for those busy weeknight dinners.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-12 minutes. When it’s done, save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest of the water from the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Be careful not to brown the garlic; you just want it to become fragrant.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Lower the heat a bit, then pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the garlic. Stir it gently and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will create a lovely base for the sauce!
4. Add Cheese and Season:
Now it’s time to add the grated Parmesan cheese! Stir it in until it melts and the sauce becomes wonderfully creamy. Taste the sauce and add salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. If you find the sauce too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired creaminess.
6. Plate and Top with Burrata:
Transfer the creamy pasta to serving plates or a large bowl. Next, tear the burrata cheese into pieces and place it on top of the pasta. Let the creamy inside of the burrata melt into the warm pasta for a delicious finish!
7. Garnish and Serve:
To finish, sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the top. You can also add optional toppings like red pepper flakes, halved cherry tomatoes, or a bit of lemon zest for extra flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy your easy, comforting creamy burrata pasta!
FAQ for Creamy Burrata Pasta
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine and spaghetti are great choices, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne or even gluten-free options. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you select.
What if I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream on hand, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that the sauce will be less rich and creamy, so you might want to add a little extra cheese for flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to refresh the sauce if it seems too thick.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Pasta?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms can enhance the flavor and add nutrition. Just toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking the pasta or sauté them with the garlic for a delicious addition!
