Creamy Tomato Burrata Pasta

The first forkful of Creamy Tomato Burrata Pasta delivers an irresistible combination of silky sauce, perfectly al dente noodles, and that moment when the creamy burrata center melts into a pool of decadence. This elevated pasta dish transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal that’s surprisingly easy to create at home. The contrast between the tangy tomato sauce and rich, milky burrata creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and sophisticated. You’ll learn how to balance flavors perfectly, create a velvety sauce, and present a stunning pasta dish that will impress family and dinner guests alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Tomato Burrata Pasta stands out from ordinary pasta dishes in several delightful ways. First, the textural contrast is magnificent – the silky sauce clings perfectly to the pasta while the burrata provides pockets of incredible creaminess that burst with every bite. The tomato sauce achieves that perfect balance between acidity and sweetness, with just enough depth to complement the delicate cheese without overwhelming it.

What makes this recipe particularly appealing is its impressive presentation despite requiring minimal effort. The visual impact of placing that pristine ball of burrata atop a swirl of pasta creates an Instagram-worthy dish that looks like it came from an upscale Italian restaurant. Yet the preparation is straightforward enough for a weeknight dinner.

The versatility of this tomato burrata pasta also makes it perfect for various occasions – from a quick family meal to a romantic dinner or casual entertaining. The ingredients are accessible year-round, though the dish truly shines when made with peak-season summer tomatoes. Best of all, this recipe delivers a gourmet experience without requiring advanced cooking techniques.

Ingredients

For the Creamy Tomato Burrata Pasta, you’ll need:

• 1 pound (450g) pasta (pappardelle, fettuccine, or spaghetti work beautifully)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1 small onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 2 cans (28 oz/800g total) San Marzano tomatoes, crushed
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup (25g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 8 oz (225g) burrata cheese (2 medium balls)
• Fresh basil leaves, torn
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

The star ingredient is undoubtedly the burrata – this luxurious cheese resembles fresh mozzarella from the outside but contains a creamy, rich center that creates the signature texture of this dish. San Marzano tomatoes provide the ideal balance of sweetness and acidity for the sauce, while the heavy cream adds silkiness without making the dish too heavy.

Pro Tips

Master the Sauce Consistency

The key to perfect Creamy Tomato Burrata Pasta lies in achieving the ideal sauce consistency. Simmer your tomato sauce until it reduces slightly and deepens in flavor – about 25-30 minutes. When adding cream, reduce the heat to prevent curdling and stir constantly. The finished sauce should coat the back of a spoon but still maintain some flowing movement. If it’s too thick, add a splash of pasta water; if too thin, simmer a few minutes longer.

Pasta Cooking Technique

Always cook your pasta 1-2 minutes less than package directions for true al dente texture. This slightly firmer pasta will continue cooking when tossed with the hot sauce. Reserve at least 1 cup of starchy pasta water before draining – this liquid gold contains starches that help the sauce adhere to the pasta and achieve the perfect silky texture.

Burrata Handling and Timing

Handle burrata with care, as its delicate structure can easily break. For the most dramatic presentation and optimal temperature contrast, add the burrata at the very last moment before serving. Allow it to sit for 20-30 seconds on the hot pasta, then gently tear it open at the table, allowing the creamy interior to melt into the dish. This creates both visual appeal and ensures the perfect temperature and textural contrast.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Begin by heating olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until translucent but not browned. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another 30-60 seconds until fragrant. This aromatic foundation will infuse the entire Creamy Tomato Burrata Pasta with flavor.

Step 2: Develop the Sauce

Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and sugar to the skillet, stirring to combine. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low and cook uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should reduce slightly and develop a deeper flavor. For a smoother texture, you can blend with an immersion blender or leave it chunky for a more rustic tomato burrata sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta of choice and cook until just shy of al dente (about 1-2 minutes less than package directions). Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. This reserved water is essential for achieving the perfect sauce consistency.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Finish

Reduce the heat under your tomato sauce to low and stir in the heavy cream and butter, whisking until fully incorporated and silky. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed – the sauce should be vibrant with a perfect balance of acidity and richness.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the drained pasta directly to the sauce, tossing gently to coat each strand. Add splashes of reserved pasta water as needed until the sauce perfectly coats the pasta with a silky consistency. Transfer your Creamy Tomato Burrata Pasta to serving plates or a large serving bowl, creating a slight well in the center. Place the burrata in the center, drizzle with high-quality olive oil, sprinkle with fresh black pepper, and scatter torn basil leaves over the top. Serve immediately, encouraging everyone to break open the burrata at the table for dramatic effect.

Variations

Spicy Tomato Burrata Pasta

Transform the original recipe into a heat-lover’s dream by doubling the red pepper flakes and adding 1-2 finely diced fresh chili peppers to the initial onion sauté. For even more complexity, stir in 1-2 tablespoons of Calabrian chili paste along with the tomato paste. The spicy elements create a beautiful contrast with the cooling, creamy burrata. Finish with a drizzle of chili oil for an extra kick that elevates the Creamy Tomato Burrata Pasta to new heights.

Roasted Vegetable Addition

For a more substantial version with additional texture and nutrition, roast 2 cups of seasonal vegetables (cherry tomatoes, zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers) with olive oil, salt, and pepper until caramelized. Fold these into the sauce just before adding the pasta. The roasted vegetables add wonderful depth and make this burrata pasta dish even more satisfying as a complete meal. The sweet, caramelized edges of the vegetables complement the creamy cheese perfectly.

Gluten-Free Option

This dish adapts beautifully to dietary restrictions. Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta – corn and rice blends work particularly well at maintaining an al dente texture similar to traditional pasta. Adjust cooking times according to package directions, typically checking for doneness a minute or two early. The sauce remains unchanged, making this an accessible option for those avoiding gluten without sacrificing the luxurious experience of authentic Creamy Tomato Burrata Pasta.

Storage and Serving

Store leftover pasta and sauce separately if possible. The sauce will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, while the pasta is best consumed within 3 days. Reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or cream to revive its silky texture. Warm the pasta separately by briefly immersing it in boiling water for 30 seconds, then combine with the heated sauce. Unfortunately, burrata doesn’t store well once opened, so add fresh burrata to any leftovers.

For serving, this Creamy Tomato Burrata Pasta pairs beautifully with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil – the peppery greens provide a perfect counterpoint to the rich pasta. A piece of crusty Italian bread for sauce-mopping is always appreciated. For an elegant dinner party, serve smaller portions as a first course before a simple protein main, or make it the star of the meal with a side of roasted broccolini or asparagus dressed with lemon and garlic.

For wine pairing, choose a medium-bodied Italian red like Chianti Classico or Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, whose acidity complements the tomato sauce while standing up to the richness of the burrata.

FAQs

Can I use regular mozzarella instead of burrata?

While you can substitute fresh mozzarella, you’ll miss the signature creamy center that makes Creamy Tomato Burrata Pasta special. If using mozzarella, choose a high-quality, fresh variety and tear it into pieces rather than slicing it for better texture and melting.

How can I prevent my cream sauce from curdling?

Lower the heat before adding cream, ensure the sauce isn’t boiling, and stir continuously when incorporating the cream. Using room-temperature cream also helps prevent curdling in tomato-based sauces.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The tomato sauce (before adding cream) can be made up to 3 days ahead and refrigerated. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce, add the cream and cheese, then proceed with the pasta assembly.

What’s the best pasta shape for this dish?

Long pasta shapes like pappardelle, fettuccine, or spaghetti work best as they provide maximum surface area for the sauce and create a beautiful presentation with the burrata. Rigatoni or penne are good alternatives if you prefer a shorter pasta.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this Creamy Tomato Burrata Pasta is vegetarian. Just ensure your Parmesan cheese is made with vegetable rennet if serving strict vegetarians, as traditional Parmesan uses animal rennet.

Conclusion

This Creamy Tomato Burrata Pasta is comfort food at its finest — a perfect balance of velvety sauce, tender pasta, and the luxurious richness of burrata that melts into a creamy puddle when broken open. It’s the kind of dish that transforms ordinary weeknight dinners into memorable occasions and satisfies both simple cravings and sophisticated palates. Whether you’re cooking to impress someone special or simply treating yourself to an elevated pasta experience, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with remarkably little effort. The contrast between the tangy tomato sauce and decadent burrata creates a pasta dish that you’ll return to again and again, each time appreciating the beautiful simplicity of perfectly executed Italian-inspired cooking.

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