Pin This Burrata Caprese Pasta brings together juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, silky burrata, and perfectly cooked noodles for a simple yet showstopping dinner. Its quick prep makes it just right for a summer weeknight or easy entertaining, and every bite captures classic Italian flavors with a creamy twist that never fails to impress my guests.
Last summer, I threw this dish together after visiting my local farmers' market. The way the creamy burrata melted into the pasta made it an instant family favorite. Now it is my go-to for potlucks and lazy dinners alike.
Ingredients
- Pasta of your choice such as spaghetti or fusilli: The base of the dish Choose high-quality dried or fresh pasta for best texture
- Salt for pasta water: Brightens all the flavors and seasons the noodles from within Opt for sea salt if you have it
- Cherry tomatoes ripe and juicy: Sweetness and acidity Pick the freshest and firmest you can find
- Garlic fresh and thinly sliced: Adds a subtle warmth and depth Look for plump firm cloves
- Fresh basil leaves: Torn for aroma and color Choose bright green leaves with no black spots
- Burrata cheese: Creamy center is the real highlight Buy from a reputable cheesemonger or market for top quality
- Parmesan cheese freshly grated for richness: Adds umami and a savory edge Try to source real Parmigiano-Reggiano
- Extra-virgin olive oil: For sautéing and finishing Lends peppery fragrance Go for cold-pressed and fruity varieties
- Freshly ground black pepper: Gives dimension and bite Grind it fresh for strongest aroma
- Red pepper flakes: Optional but adds gentle heat Only use a pinch if you want to liven things up
Instructions
- Bring the Water:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil Use enough water so the pasta cooks evenly and add a generous handful of salt for flavor
- Cook the Pasta:
- Add the pasta to the boiling water Stir occasionally and cook until just shy of al dente Check the package for timing so the noodles have a bit of bite Reserve a cup of the cooking water before draining
- Sauté the Garlic:
- Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet Add the sliced garlic and cook for about one minute Swirl it gently until aromatic but do not let it brown to avoid bitterness
- Cook the Tomatoes:
- Toss the halved cherry tomatoes and a pinch of salt into the skillet Stir occasionally and let them simmer about five to seven minutes As the skins split gently mash a few with the back of your spoon to create a richer sauce
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the drained pasta right into the skillet with the tomatoes Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese Toss thoroughly so everything gets coated Use splashes of reserved pasta water to help create a silky sauce that clings to every noodle
- Add the Basil and Season:
- Remove the skillet from heat Tear fresh basil leaves over the pasta and fold in until wilted Season with black pepper and a tiny pinch of red pepper flakes if using Taste and adjust salt or heat as needed
- Add Burrata and Finish:
- Divide the pasta among plates Tear burrata cheese with your hands and nestle generous pieces over the warm noodles Drizzle with extra olive oil and scatter extra basil on top Let the cheese gently melt and mingle with the pasta before serving
- Serve Immediately:
- Serve the dish at once for peak creaminess Burrata is at its best melting into the pasta still warm from the stove
Pin Burrata is my absolute favorite cheese for this because the creamy center oozes over the warm pasta like silk. I still remember when I introduced my grandmother to this recipe and she could not believe how simple ingredients created such elegance on the plate.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days Burrata will firm up when chilled but the flavors still shine Warm gently before eating to soften the cheese again but avoid microwaving to preserve the delicate texture
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of burrata use fresh mozzarella torn into pieces For a vegan version substitute vegan cheese or simply omit the cheese and add toasted pine nuts for richness You can swap cherry tomatoes for heirloom varieties just chop them to a similar size
Serving Suggestions
Pair this pasta with a crisp green salad and crusty bread It shines on its own but also sits beautifully alongside grilled vegetables or a citrusy white wine Serve it family style on a big platter for a fun and interactive meal
Cultural and Seasonal Context
Burrata Caprese Pasta is rooted in the Italian tradition of celebrating peak seasonal produce The combination of tomatoes basil and cheese is timeless and each bite feels like summer on a plate As tomatoes burst into season this is one of the best ways to honor their flavor
Pin This easy pasta truly tastes like a summer celebration in every bite. With burrata as the highlight, each plate brings comfort and elegance to the table.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely. Spaghetti, linguine, or fusilli all work well. Choose shapes that hold sauce nicely.
- → What can I substitute for burrata?
Fresh mozzarella is a great alternative, offering a similarly creamy texture and mild flavor.
- → How do I make the sauce extra silky?
Use reserved pasta cooking water and toss thoroughly. The starch blends the sauce for a smooth finish.
- → What garnishes enhance the dish?
Toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of balsamic glaze add depth and flavor. Extra basil leaves are perfect for garnish.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta to make the dish gluten-free friendly without compromising taste.
- → How can I add more spice?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when tossing pasta to bring gentle heat to the sauce.