This creamy baked burrata tomato pasta is comfort food in a dish! The melted burrata adds a rich, cheesy twist to the juicy tomatoes and pasta.
It’s like a warm hug on a plate! I love how simple it is to make—just mix everything, bake, and enjoy! Perfect for those cozy nights in. 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using penne for this dish because its shape holds sauce well. Rigatoni is also a great choice! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes add a sweet burst of flavor. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes can work, though the taste won’t be as fresh. You could also mix in some sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper flavor.
Burrata: The creamy burrata is the star! If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella is a good substitute, though it won’t be as creamy. Crumbled goat cheese can also add a nice tangy flavor.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter sauce, you could use half-and-half or even Greek yogurt. Just be cautious as yogurt can curdle if heated too quickly!
How Do I Bake the Perfect Burrata?
Baking burrata is easy and gives it a delightful creamy texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Ensure your oven is preheated to get an even melt.
- Place the burrata on top of the pasta just before the final bake. This prevents it from overcooking and losing its creaminess.
- Keep an eye on it in the oven! Bake just until it starts to ooze, usually around 5-7 minutes.
Creamy Baked Burrata Tomato Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or rigatoni works well)
For the Tomato Mixture:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 ball burrata cheese (about 6-8 oz)
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook. You’ll spend a little bit of time gathering everything and mixing it all together, and then let the oven do the work! Total time is around 40 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that everything cooks evenly and helps to create that beautiful, bubbly cheese at the end!
2. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (cooked but still firm), then drain it. Don’t worry if it’s a little undercooked— it will finish cooking in the oven!
3. Prepare the Tomato Mixture:
In a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish, combine the cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together so the tomatoes are evenly coated.
4. Bake the Tomatoes:
Put the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the tomatoes are blistered and bursting with flavor. Keep an eye on them— the smell will be amazing!
5. Combine with Heavy Cream:
Once the tomatoes are ready, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Stir in the heavy cream until everything is well mixed together. It should look creamy and delicious!
6. Add the Pasta:
Gently fold the cooked pasta into the skillet, making sure each piece is coated in the creamy tomato sauce. This is where the magic happens!
7. Top with Burrata:
Place the burrata ball right on top of the pasta mixture. This will be the star of the dish, adding all that creamy goodness.
8. Bake Again:
Return the skillet to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the burrata gets soft and starts to melt. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
9. Finish and Garnish:
Remove the skillet from the oven. Use a spoon to gently break the burrata and mix it into the pasta. This will make everything extra creamy and delicious!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve warm, and enjoy every bite of your creamy baked burrata tomato pasta!
FAQ for Creamy Baked Burrata Tomato Pasta
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While penne and rigatoni are great choices, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for your chosen pasta.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
If you’re looking to lighten things up, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat Greek yogurt. Just be cautious when using yogurt; stir it in off the heat to prevent curdling.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare everything up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if you’re putting it in the oven straight from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce’s consistency.