Creamy Tomato Pasta with Burrata

Ingredients

Serves 4

For the Pasta

• 12 oz (340 g) pasta (spaghetti, rigatoni, penne, or fettuccine)
• 1 tbsp salt (for pasta water)

For the Tomato Sauce

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Serving

• 1 large burrata ball (8 oz / 225 g)
• Fresh basil leaves
• Extra Parmesan cheese
• Freshly cracked black pepper
• Drizzle of olive oil

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
3. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

2. Make the Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
6. Simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Combine

1. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce.
2. Toss until evenly coated.
3. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

4. Finish with Burrata

1. Transfer the pasta to a serving platter or bowls.
2. Place the burrata in the center of the hot pasta.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with black pepper.
4. Tear the burrata open just before serving and gently mix it into the pasta.

Tips

• Use high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Burrata is best served at room temperature, so remove it from the refrigerator 20–30 minutes before serving.
• Reserve extra pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.
• Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage for extra protein.
• Fresh basil adds brightness and balances the richness of the cheese.
• For a deeper flavor, let the tomato sauce simmer a few extra minutes before adding the cream.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with garlic bread or focaccia.
• Serve alongside a crisp green salad.
• Finish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil for a beautiful presentation.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy

🍅🧀 The combination of creamy tomato sauce and rich burrata creates a luxurious pasta dish that’s both comforting and impressive.