Creamy Tomato & Basil Pasta with Burrata: Your Ultimate Quick Weeknight Meal
There are some dishes that just speak to the soul, wrapping you in a warm, comforting embrace with every bite. This Creamy Tomato & Basil Pasta with Burrata is precisely one of them. Imagine vibrant, sun-ripened tomato sauce, simmered to perfection, meeting the fresh, herbaceous notes of basil, then coating perfectly cooked pasta. And as the crowning glory? A generous dollop of creamy, melt-in-your-mouth burrata cheese, transforming a simple meal into an elegant culinary experience. This surprisingly simple yet utterly satisfying dish is truly a perfect Quick Weeknight Meal, offering a taste of Italian summer in every bite, no matter the season. It's the kind of Easy Dinner that makes you feel like a gourmet chef without spending hours in the kitchen. #CreamyPasta #WeeknightDinner #TomatoBasilPasta #Burrata
Why This Creamy Tomato & Basil Pasta Will Be Your New Go-To
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, finding time to prepare a delicious and wholesome meal can feel like a daunting task. That's where this incredible Pasta Recipe steps in, perfectly aligning with the mission of FlavorTrailRecipes: to inspire everyday cooks with approachable yet extraordinary dishes. This recipe isn't just about speed; it’s about maximizing flavor with minimal effort. The rich and comforting Tomato Sauce is the heart of the dish, elevated by the aromatic essence of Fresh Basil and the tangy saltiness of Parmesan Cheese. And the burrata? It's the luxurious whisper that transforms a simple pasta into something truly special, melting into pools of creamy goodness that mingle with the sauce.
This dish is a testament to the beauty of Italian Cuisine – simplicity, quality ingredients, and robust flavors. It’s perfect for those evenings when you crave something satisfying and gourmet but only have precious minutes to spare. It's truly a #QuickMeals superstar that delivers on taste every single time.
Creamy Tomato & Basil Pasta with Burrata Recipe
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time: | 25 minutes |
| Servings: | 4 servings |
Ingredients
- 340g (12 oz) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti work wonderfully – choose your favorite shape to hold that delicious sauce!)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin, for that robust flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (the aromatic foundation of our sauce)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, but adds a delightful subtle kick)
- 794g (28 oz) crushed tomatoes (look for good quality, ideally San Marzano for best results)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (the secret to that irresistible creamy texture)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is always superior for melting and flavor)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (the herbaceous star, adding freshness and aroma)
- 1 tsp sugar (balances the acidity of the tomatoes, enhancing their natural sweetness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste (essential for seasoning and bringing out flavors)
- 2 balls (8 oz total) burrata cheese, halved (the showstopper, for creamy indulgence)
- Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling (a final touch of richness)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (for visual appeal and an extra burst of fresh basil aroma)
Instructions
- Pasta Prep: Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Adding salt at this stage is crucial, as it seasons the pasta from within. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente – this means it should be tender but still have a slight bite to it. Before draining, make sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water. This "liquid gold" will be your best friend for achieving the perfect sauce consistency later.
- Aromatic Base: While your pasta is diligently cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or a sturdy Dutch oven over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the minced garlic and, if you're a fan of a little warmth, the red pepper flakes. Sauté for just about 1 minute, or until the garlic becomes wonderfully fragrant. Be vigilant here – garlic can burn quickly, turning bitter, so keep a close eye on it.
- Simmer the Sauce: Carefully pour in the crushed tomatoes. Stir in the sugar (this simple addition truly highlights the tomatoes' natural sweetness and balances any acidity), along with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook, uncovered, for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and concentrated Tomato Sauce.
- Creamy Perfection: Now for the magic! Stir in the heavy cream and the grated Parmesan Cheese. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring periodically, until the sauce has thickened slightly to a luscious consistency. It should coat the back of a spoon.
- Combine & Adjust: Add the drained pasta directly to the sauce in your skillet or Dutch oven. Toss everything together, ensuring every strand of pasta is beautifully coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems a little too thick for your liking, gradually add a tablespoon or two of that reserved pasta water. The starch in the water helps the sauce cling to the pasta and achieve a silky, desirable consistency.
- Basil Infusion: Gently stir in the chopped fresh basil. The residual heat from the pasta and sauce will wilt the basil just enough to release its vibrant aroma without cooking it down too much, preserving its freshness.
- Serve with Burrata: Divide the pasta generously among individual bowls. The pièce de résistance: gently place a half ball of the creamy burrata cheese on top of each serving.
- Garnish & Enjoy: For a final flourish, drizzle each serving with a little extra virgin olive oil and scatter a few fresh basil leaves for garnish. Serve immediately and watch as the burrata slowly melts into the warm pasta, creating pockets of unparalleled creaminess. This is #HomeCooking at its finest!
Expert Tips & Delicious Variations for Your Pasta Recipe
This Creamy Tomato & Basil Pasta is incredibly versatile! Here are some ways to make it your own or elevate it even further:
- Boost the Tomato Flavor: For a deeper, more concentrated tomato flavor, add a tablespoon of tomato paste to the skillet along with the crushed tomatoes in step 3. Sauté it for a minute or two before adding the main tomatoes to toast it and deepen its flavor.
- Cheese Swaps: If luscious burrata isn't available, don't despair! You can absolutely substitute with fresh mozzarella (tear it into smaller pieces) or dollops of creamy ricotta cheese for a similar effect. For a sharper cheese profile, a sprinkle of Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan can be delightful.
- Add Some Greens: Wilt a few handfuls of fresh spinach or baby arugula into the sauce during the last minute of simmering for added nutrition and color.
- Protein Power: Want to make it a more substantial meal? Sauté some cooked shredded chicken, browned Italian sausage (mild or spicy), or even pan-seared shrimp and toss them in with the pasta in step 5.
- Veggie Boost: Roast some cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers separately and stir them into the finished pasta for extra texture and flavor.
- Herb Alternatives: While fresh basil is king here, a pinch of dried oregano or thyme can be added to the sauce along with the crushed tomatoes for a different aromatic note. Always use fresh basil for garnish, though!
- Spice It Up: If you love heat, increase the red pepper flakes to 1 teaspoon or add a pinch of dried chili powder for a more pronounced fiery kick.
- Make Ahead (Partial): The tomato sauce can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before adding freshly cooked pasta and burrata.
Remember, cooking is an art, and these tips are just brushes for your canvas! Feel free to experiment and make this Easy Recipe truly yours. #EasyRecipe
Essential Kitchen Equipment for Pasta Perfection
Having the right tools can make all the difference in your cooking journey. For this Creamy Tomato & Basil Pasta, here are a few key pieces of equipment that will make your experience smooth and enjoyable:
- Large Pot: Essential for cooking your pasta evenly. A 6-8 quart pot is ideal.
- Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: A crucial piece for building your sauce. Opt for one with high sides to minimize splashes and allow for easy tossing of the pasta. Cast iron or a heavy-bottomed stainless steel pan works great.
- Colander: For draining the pasta efficiently.
- Garlic Press or Sharp Knife: To mince your garlic quickly and finely.
- Grater: For grating fresh Parmesan cheese – it melts better and tastes superior to pre-grated varieties.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements, ensuring consistent results every time.
- Tongs or Pasta Spoon: For easily tossing the pasta with the sauce and serving.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Tomato & Basil Pasta
- Q: Can I use canned diced tomatoes instead of crushed?
- A: While crushed tomatoes create a smoother sauce, you can use diced tomatoes. For a silkier finish, you might want to blend the sauce with an immersion blender before adding the cream.
- Q: How do I store leftovers?
- A: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Note that burrata is best served fresh, so remove any burrata from leftovers before storing.
- Q: Can I make this dish vegan or dairy-free?
- A: Absolutely! Use a plant-based heavy cream (like oat or cashew cream), nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan, and skip the burrata, or use a plant-based mozzarella alternative. The core tomato and basil flavors will still shine!
- Q: What if my sauce is too thin or too thick?
- A: If too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce. If too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water (or a splash of vegetable broth) until it reaches your desired consistency. The pasta water is key for sauce adhesion!
Serving Suggestion & Wine Pairing
This Creamy Tomato & Basil Pasta with Burrata is a complete meal on its own, but it truly shines when served alongside a few simple accompaniments. A crisp green salad, lightly dressed with a vinaigrette, offers a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta. And don't forget the garlic bread – perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delectable sauce! For a beverage pairing, a light-bodied red wine such as a Pinot Noir or a chilled rosé would beautifully complement the sweet tomatoes and creamy burrata. For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime is wonderfully refreshing.
Nutritional Estimate (Per Serving)
Please note: These are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.
- Calories: Approximately 650-750 kcal
- Protein: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 70-80g
- Fat: 30-40g
Ready to Elevate Your Weeknight Dinner?
There you have it – a recipe that promises to deliver on flavor, comfort, and ease. This Creamy Tomato & Basil Pasta with Burrata isn't just a meal; it's an experience, a simple pleasure that brings the warmth of Italian Cuisine right to your dining table. We hope you love making and sharing this delightful dish as much as we do.
Did you try this Pasta Recipe? We’d love to hear about it in the comments below! And for more inspiring and approachable recipes that transform everyday cooking into a culinary adventure, be sure to explore our other fantastic dishes here at FlavorTrailRecipes. Happy cooking! #PastaNight #FlavorTrailRecipes #QuickMeals