This creamy burst tomato burrata pasta is like a hug in a bowl! Juicy tomatoes burst with flavor and mix perfectly with smooth burrata cheese. Yum!
I love how easy it is to whip up—you just cook, stir, and enjoy. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels fancy but is super simple to make for a cozy night in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using spaghetti or fettuccine here. You can swap in whole wheat pasta for a healthier option or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
Cherry Tomatoes: These are key for that burst of flavor! If you can’t find them, you can use heirloom tomatoes, just chop them into smaller pieces. Canned diced tomatoes also work in a pinch.
Burrata Cheese: This creamy cheese is the star of the dish! If you can’t find burrata, try using fresh mozzarella or even ricotta for a different creamy texture.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or even cashew cream for a dairy-free alternative. If you’re watching calories, use a light cream instead.
How Can You Make Sure the Tomatoes Burst Perfectly?
It’s all about cooking the tomatoes just right! You want them to burst and release their juices to create a delicious sauce.
- Heat your skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.
- Once hot, add the garlic and sauté until fragrant for about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the cherry tomatoes and optional red pepper flakes, stirring occasionally.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes; as they heat, use the back of a spoon to gently crush a few to enhance that burst effect.
Keep an eye on the heat—too high, and they’ll burn; too low, and they won’t burst. With a little patience, you’ll achieve a beautifully saucy base!
Creamy Burst Tomato Burrata Pasta Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (such as spaghetti or fettuccine)
- For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes (about 2 cups)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- For the Topping:
- 2 burrata balls (about 8 oz total)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25 minutes from start to finish. It’ll only take around 10 minutes for prep and around 15 minutes for cooking. Fast and flavorful!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Be sure to taste it to get that perfect texture! Once cooked, reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain 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 sliced garlic and sauté it for about 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant and lightly golden. Keep an eye on it, as you don’t want it to burn!
3. Burst the Tomatoes:
Next, toss in the cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them) into the skillet. Stir occasionally and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the tomatoes start bursting and releasing their juicy goodness. For even more sauce, use the back of a spoon to gently crush some of the tomatoes.
4. Make the Sauce Creamy:
Once the tomatoes are looking good, season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. It’s going to smell amazing!
5. Combine with Pasta:
Now it’s time to add the cooked pasta to the skillet! Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the delicious sauce. If it seems a bit thick, add reserved pasta water gradually to loosen it up until you achieve your desired consistency.
6. Plate It Up:
Carefully transfer the pasta to serving plates. Tear apart the burrata cheese and place it on top of each serving, letting the creamy center ooze into the warm pasta. So decadent!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finish by garnishing with fresh basil leaves and a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Serve immediately and enjoy this delightful dish with family and friends!
FAQ for Creamy Burst Tomato Burrata Pasta
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti and fettuccine are great options, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer. Penne, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta will work well too. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed!
What If I Can’t Find Burrata Cheese?
If burrata isn’t available, fresh mozzarella is a good substitute. Just tear it into pieces and let it melt slightly over the warm pasta. Ricotta can also be used for a creamy texture, though it won’t have the same flavor as burrata.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to restore creaminess if needed. Enjoy the deliciousness again!
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes, you can make this dish vegan by substituting the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream alternative. Skip the cheese or replace it with vegan cheese options, and you’re good to go!
