This Creamy Burrata Pesto Pasta is a dreamy dish that combines fresh pesto with rich, creamy burrata cheese. It’s deliciously simple and perfect for a quick dinner.
Who can resist that gooey burrata? It feels like a hug in a bowl! I love serving this with a sprinkle of cherry tomatoes for a pop of color—plus, they taste great too!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I usually opt for fettuccine for its nice surface area to hold the sauce, but linguine or penne work well too. If you’re gluten-free, there are plenty of pasta options made from rice or chickpeas.
Pesto: Fresh basil pesto is a must for this dish. You can make your own with basil, garlic, nuts, and Parmesan, or use a good quality store-bought version. For a nut-free option, try sunflower seed pesto.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness, but you can substitute with half-and-half if you’d like it a little lighter. For a non-dairy version, coconut cream works well, or try cashew cream for a similar texture.
Burrata Cheese: The star ingredient! If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella is a good substitute, although it won’t be quite as creamy. Goat cheese can offer a nice tang if you’re up for a twist!
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a bright touch and a bit of sweetness. If you don’t have any, you could use sun-dried tomatoes or skip them altogether.
How Do I Create a Smooth Creamy Sauce?
Making a creamy sauce that blends perfectly with pasta can be tricky, but it’s all in the technique. Here’s how to do it smoothly:
- Start by heating olive oil in a skillet before adding minced garlic. Make sure not to brown it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
- When you stir in the heavy cream, let it warm gently before adding the pesto. This helps the cream blend without clumping.
- Add your cooked pasta straight into the sauce and mix thoroughly. If it seems too thick, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time can help reach the perfect consistency.
These steps will ensure that the sauce coats the pasta beautifully! Enjoy the creamy goodness!
Creamy Burrata Pesto Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
- 1 cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 8 oz (225 g) burrata cheese
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 25 minutes to prepare, including cooking your pasta and creating the creamy sauce. It’s a quick and easy meal that is perfect for a busy weeknight or a special dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (tender but still firm). Be sure to reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta in a colander.
2. Make the Garlic Cream Sauce:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Keep an eye on it—you’re looking for a fragrant aroma, not browned garlic! Then, stir in the heavy cream and let it warm up gently for 2-3 minutes while stirring occasionally.
3. Mix in the Pesto:
Reduce the heat and whisk in the basil pesto until everything is combined and the sauce is smooth. Taste your sauce and season with salt and pepper according to your preference.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now, it’s time to add your drained pasta to the skillet! Toss it in the creamy pesto sauce until every piece is coated. If the sauce feels too thick, you can gradually add the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. Just remember, a little goes a long way!
5. Add the Burrata:
Transfer the creamy pesto pasta to your serving plates or a large bowl. Tear the burrata cheese into large pieces and place it on top of the pasta. As it sits, the creamy inside will melt slightly, creating a delectable finish to your dish.
6. Garnish and Serve:
For an extra splash of color and flavor, garnish with halved cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves. If you like, add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Creamy Burrata Pesto Pasta!
Can I Use Store-Bought Pesto Instead of Homemade?
Absolutely! Store-bought pesto is a great time-saver and can still provide delicious flavors. Just choose a high-quality brand for the best results!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can work well. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut cream or a cashew cream to maintain a rich texture.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to help restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Pasta?
Definitely! You can add your favorite vegetables like spinach, peas, or zucchini. Just sauté them along with the garlic before adding the cream for a quick and nutritious boost!
