Creamy Tomato & Basil Pasta with Burrata: Your Ultimate Quick Weeknight Meal
Welcome, fellow food lovers, to FlavorTrailRecipes.blogspot.com, where we believe that delicious food doesn't have to be complicated. Today, we're diving into a dish that perfectly embodies this philosophy: our exquisite Creamy Tomato & Basil Pasta with Burrata. If you're searching for an ultimate Quick Weeknight Meal that doesn't compromise on flavor, look no further.
Imagine a symphony of Italian flavors coming together in less than 30 minutes. This dish is exactly that – a velvety smooth tomato sauce, brightened with fragrant fresh basil, clinging perfectly to your favorite pasta shape. But the true star, the ingredient that elevates this simple pasta recipe from delicious to divine, is the luxurious addition of fresh Burrata cheese. It's an effortlessly elegant dish, a comforting weeknight treat that's sure to impress with its rich taste and incredibly simple preparation. Perfect for those busy evenings when you crave something wholesome and satisfying, this easy dinner will become a staple in your kitchen.
Why This Pasta is a Weeknight Winner
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, finding time to cook a wholesome, flavorful meal can feel like a Herculean task. That's precisely why this Creamy Tomato & Basil Pasta is a game-changer. It’s designed to be a lifesaver on those demanding evenings, delivering gourmet taste with minimal effort. The beauty lies in its simplicity and the quality of a few key ingredients. The rich, sweet notes of crushed tomatoes meld seamlessly with the aromatic garlic and a hint of red pepper flakes, creating a robust foundation for the sauce. Then comes the magic of heavy cream and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, transforming the sauce into a lusciously creamy embrace for your pasta.
But let's talk about the Burrata. Oh, the Burrata! This Italian cheese, a cousin to mozzarella, is what truly sets this dish apart. Its creamy, soft interior bursts forth, mingling with the warm tomato sauce to create an unparalleled richness that coats every strand of pasta. It's a truly indulgent experience that makes this vegetarian dish feel incredibly luxurious. This isn't just another pasta recipe; it's a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients culminating in an extraordinary Italian food experience, proving that easy dinner options can be incredibly sophisticated.
Recipe: Creamy Tomato & Basil Pasta with Burrata
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 2-3 servings |
Ingredients:
- 225g (8 ounces) pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne – choose your favorite!)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (freshly minced makes a big difference!)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a subtle kick)
- 700g (24 ounces) crushed tomatoes (good quality makes all the difference here)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (for that luxurious creaminess)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus more for garnish
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper, or to taste
- 225g (8 ounces) Burrata cheese, at room temperature (crucial for maximum creaminess!)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until it's perfectly al dente. Before draining, make sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of that starchy pasta water – it's liquid gold for adjusting your sauce consistency!
- Start the Sauce Base: While your pasta is bubbling away, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if you're using them for that gentle warmth) and sauté for just 1 minute. You want the garlic to be fragrant, not browned, so keep a close eye on it!
- Simmer the Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then season with salt and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering time allows the flavors to meld and deepen beautifully.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and the 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook for another 2 minutes, stirring, until the sauce has slightly thickened and is beautifully smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta directly to the sauce in the skillet and toss everything to coat thoroughly. This step is where the magic happens! If the sauce seems a little too thick, gradually add a tablespoon or two of your reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired velvety consistency.
- Fold in Fresh Basil: Remove the skillet from the heat and gently stir in the chopped fresh basil. The heat from the pasta and sauce will wilt it perfectly, releasing its aromatic essence.
- Serve with Burrata: Serve the Creamy Tomato & Basil Pasta immediately, dividing it among plates. For each serving, top with a glorious ball of room-temperature Burrata cheese. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and a few extra fresh basil leaves. Break open the burrata at the table to let its creamy interior spill into the warm pasta – pure bliss!
Expert Tips & Variations: Elevate Your Pasta Game
This pasta recipe is incredibly versatile and forgiving. Here are some pro tips and variations to make it your own and ensure a perfect easy dinner every time:
- Boost Tomato Flavor: For an even richer, more intense tomato flavor, stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste along with the crushed tomatoes in Step 3. This adds a concentrated depth that is truly remarkable.
- Cheese Swaps: While Burrata is our star, you can absolutely substitute it with fresh mozzarella balls (tear them by hand for a rustic look) or even dollops of creamy ricotta cheese for a different texture. Each cheese offers a unique profile!
- Add Protein: To make this a heartier Quick Weeknight Meal, consider adding cooked protein. Grilled chicken strips, sautéed shrimp, or even crumbled Italian sausage would be fantastic additions. For a delicious vegetarian protein boost, stir in a can of drained cannellini beans or chickpeas.
- Veggie Boost: Sneak in some extra vegetables! Sautéed spinach, finely diced zucchini, or bell peppers can be added with the crushed tomatoes. Just ensure they are cooked until tender.
- Spice It Up: Love heat? Increase the red pepper flakes to 1/2 teaspoon or more, or add a pinch of dried oregano or Italian seasoning for an extra layer of Italian food aroma.
- Herbs Beyond Basil: While basil is classic, a mix of fresh herbs like a touch of fresh oregano or parsley stirred in at the end can also be delightful.
- Make Ahead Tip (Sauce): The tomato sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently, cook fresh pasta, and combine. Add the Burrata and fresh basil just before serving.
Nutritional Estimate (Per Serving):
| Calories | Protein | Carbohydrates | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|
| 650-750 | 25-30g | 70-80g | 35-45g |
Please note: These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Serving Suggestions & Perfect Pairings
This Creamy Tomato & Basil Pasta with Burrata is a complete meal on its own, but it truly shines when paired with a few simple accompaniments. For a classic Italian food experience, serve it alongside a crisp side of garlic bread, perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy tomato sauce. A simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the pasta. As for drinks, a dry, crisp Pinot Grigio or a medium-bodied Chianti would beautifully complement the flavors of the tomatoes and basil. For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a lemon twist or a homemade basil-infused lemonade would be delightful.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this pasta recipe ahead of time?
A: While the sauce can certainly be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator, it's best to cook the pasta fresh and combine it with the sauce right before serving. The burrata should always be added just before enjoying for maximum creaminess and flavor.
Q: What's the best type of pasta to use for this easy dinner?
A: Long pasta shapes like spaghetti, linguine, or bucatini are excellent for coating evenly with the creamy sauce. However, short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli also work beautifully, as their nooks and crannies hold the sauce wonderfully. Choose what you love!
Q: What if I can't find Burrata cheese?
A: No problem! While burrata offers a unique creamy texture, fresh mozzarella (either a large ball torn into pieces or small ciliegine balls) is an excellent substitute. Ricotta cheese can also be spooned over the hot pasta for a different, but still delicious, creamy element.
Q: Is this dish truly vegetarian?
A: Yes, this Creamy Tomato & Basil Pasta with Burrata is naturally vegetarian, relying on the richness of cheese and cream for its satisfying texture. Ensure your Parmesan cheese is made without animal rennet if you adhere to strict vegetarian guidelines.
Q: How can I adjust the spice level of the tomato sauce?
A: The red pepper flakes are entirely optional. For a mild sauce, omit them. For a subtle warmth, use 1/4 teaspoon. If you love a noticeable kick, feel free to increase the amount to 1/2 teaspoon or more, or add a pinch of dried cayenne pepper.
Ready to Create Your Own Flavor Trail?
We hope this Creamy Tomato & Basil Pasta with Burrata becomes your new go-to Quick Weeknight Meal. It's a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. Give it a try this week, and let us know how it turned out in the comments below! Don't forget to explore more easy dinner recipes and Italian food inspiration right here on FlavorTrailRecipes.blogspot.com. Happy cooking!