Name: Burst Tomato Burrata Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: ¼ cup olive oil; 6 garlic cloves, minced; ½ teaspoon dried basil; ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, plus more for sprinkling; 3 cups cherry or grape tomatoes; Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste; ½ pound pasta (such as spaghetti or bucatini); ¼ cup chopped fresh basil, plus more for sprinkling; 8 ounces burrata cheese; Parmesan cheese, for topping

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If you’re searching for the perfect combination of fresh, creamy, and vibrant flavors, the Burst Tomato Burrata Pasta is an absolute showstopper that will quickly become your new favorite dinner. This dish brings together juicy, blistered cherry tomatoes with luscious burrata cheese, creating a silky sauce that clings beautifully to tender pasta noodles. Every bite bursts with freshness and warmth, making it a comforting yet elegant meal that feels effortlessly special. Whether you’re entertaining guests or craving a simple indulgence, this Burst Tomato Burrata Pasta delivers incredible taste with minimal fuss.

Burst Tomato Burrata Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on a handful of simple but essential ingredients that work in perfect harmony. Each brings something unique to the dish, from the rich creaminess of burrata to the lively pop of burst tomatoes and the punch of aromatic basil.

Olive oil: Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for a fruity, smooth base.
Garlic cloves: Fresh minced garlic infuses the oil with a warm, fragrant depth.
Dried basil: Adds a subtle herbal aroma that complements fresh basil later on.
Crushed red pepper flakes: Just the right touch to give a gentle, spicy kick.
Cherry or grape tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, these are the stars that burst and create the sauce.
Kosher salt and pepper: To season perfectly and enhance all the flavors.
Pasta (spaghetti or bucatini): Choose a pasta that holds sauce well and has a satisfying bite.
Fresh basil: Bright and herbal, fresh basil adds vibrant color and freshness at the end.
Burrata cheese: Creamy and rich, burrata gives the dish its luxurious, silky texture.
Parmesan cheese: Nutty, salty topping to finish off with a delicious flourish.

How to Make Burst Tomato Burrata Pasta

Step 1: Gently Infuse the Oil

Begin by heating the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes to the warm oil. Cook this mixture for just 1 to 2 minutes, watching closely so the garlic becomes fragrant but doesn’t brown. This step is crucial because it allows the flavors to bloom gently and forms the aromatic base that will flavor your bursting tomatoes.

Step 2: Let the Tomatoes Burst

Next, add the cherry or grape tomatoes to the skillet, along with a generous pinch of kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper. Toss the tomatoes gently in the infused olive oil and let them cook on low heat for 20 to 25 minutes. As the tomatoes soften, they’ll begin to burst, releasing their sweet juices and creating a luscious, fresh sauce. Keep an eye on the pan—if the tomatoes aren’t popping, you can increase the heat slightly, but adjust as needed to avoid burning.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta Until Perfect

While the tomatoes are bursting beautifully in the skillet, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. This will ensure your noodles have just the right firmness to hold the sauce without getting mushy.

Step 4: Combine and Toss

Drain the pasta and immediately add it to your skillet with the burst tomatoes. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, so the pasta is perfectly coated with the vibrant tomato sauce. Turn off the heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil, which will add a fresh herbal brightness to the dish before the buratta comes in.

Step 5: Add the Burrata Cheese

This is where the magic happens. Add pieces of burrata cheese, or the whole ball, to your pasta. Mix it in gently to create a creamy coating or leave some chunks intact for pockets of rich indulgence. Taste and season again with salt and pepper if needed. The smooth, milky burrata melting into the warm pasta is what makes this Burst Tomato Burrata Pasta truly unforgettable.

How to Serve Burst Tomato Burrata Pasta

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese over the top for a salty, nutty contrast. Add a few extra fresh basil leaves and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to bring brightness and a hint of heat. A light drizzle of good olive oil right before serving elevates the dish with a silky sheen.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil. For some extra texture, roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini work beautifully. Crusty garlic bread or a warm baguette is a perfect companion to sop up every last bit of delicious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve your Burst Tomato Burrata Pasta in shallow pasta bowls to showcase the vibrant red tomatoes and the creamy cheese. Garnishing with edible flowers or microgreens adds an elegant touch for special occasions. Alternatively, serve it family-style in a large rustic bowl to invite everyone to dig in and share the joy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because the burst tomato sauce can continue to soften the pasta, try to keep the burrata separate if possible, or add it fresh when reheating for the best creamy texture.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, so freezing is not ideal. The texture of fresh burrata and burst tomatoes can degrade when frozen and thawed. If needed, freeze the pasta and tomato sauce without the cheese, and add fresh burrata after reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid breaking down the tomatoes too much. Add a splash of olive oil or water if the sauce has thickened. Reintroduce fresh burrata after warming to preserve its creamy, luscious texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of tomatoes for this pasta?

Absolutely! While cherry or grape tomatoes work best for their sweetness and size, you can use other small tomatoes like campari or even cut larger tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Just remember to cook until they burst for that signature sauce.

Is burrata cheese difficult to find?

Not at all! Most well-stocked grocery stores carry burrata in the cheese section, often near fresh mozzarella. You can also find it at specialty cheese shops or Italian markets. If unavailable, fresh mozzarella is a decent substitute, though it lacks the creamy center.

Can I make this dish vegan?

You can! Swap out burrata for a creamy vegan cheese or a dollop of cashew cream. Just keep in mind the rich creaminess of burrata is central to this dish’s character, so the flavor profile will shift a bit.

How spicy is the pasta with red pepper flakes?

The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth, not overwhelming heat. You can adjust the amount to your preference, sprinkling more on top when serving if you enjoy a stronger kick.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Spaghetti and bucatini are ideal because their long strands capture the burst tomato sauce beautifully. However, feel free to experiment with other shapes like linguine, fettuccine, or even penne for a different texture experience.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about how simple ingredients come together in the Burst Tomato Burrata Pasta to create a dish bursting with fresh flavor, creamy indulgence, and comforting warmth. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends, it’s a recipe that brings joy to the table with every bite. Give it a try—you might just find this delightful pasta becoming a beloved staple in your kitchen too!

Burst Tomato Burrata Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 15 reviews

Author: Sophie
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Burst Tomato Burrata Pasta is a vibrant and creamy Italian-inspired dish featuring tender pasta tossed with sweet, bursting cherry tomatoes, fragrant garlic and basil, and rich burrata cheese. This rustic yet elegant meal balances the freshness of herbs with the creaminess of cheese, making it perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a casual dinner party.

Instructions

Prepare the Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. Add the cherry tomatoes along with a generous pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss the tomatoes in the oil and cook for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to burst. Adjust heat as needed to encourage bursting without burning.
Cook the Pasta: While the tomatoes are cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a small amount of pasta water if desired.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the burst tomato sauce. Toss the pasta gently to coat the noodles evenly with the tomato mixture. Turn off the heat, then toss in the chopped fresh basil.
Add Burrata Cheese: Tear the burrata cheese into pieces or add it as a whole ball on top of the pasta. Mix it gently into the pasta to allow the creamy cheese to melt into the sauce, adding richness and texture.
Season and Serve: Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning with more salt and black pepper if needed. Serve immediately, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, additional fresh basil, and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Notes

Use good quality olive oil for the best flavor.
If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes.
Burrata can be substituted with fresh mozzarella if unavailable, but burrata provides a creamier texture.
Reserve a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.
This recipe pairs well with a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing and boiling
Cuisine: Italian