Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Burrata Recipe

Imagine twirling up a plate of indulgence that feels like a warm hug from the heart of Italy. That’s exactly what you get with this Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Burrata recipe. It’s a mesmerizing blend of al dente pasta soaked in a rich, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, crowned with luscious burrata that oozes dreamy softness into every bite. Vibrant, luxurious, and surprisingly simple, this dish transforms humble ingredients into a culinary masterpiece you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Burrata lies in its simplicity where each ingredient plays a starring role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the silky cream to the aromatic garlic and fresh basil, everything comes together harmoniously to create a dish that tastes much more complex than it is to prepare.

• 200g tagliatelle or penne: Choose your favorite pasta shape; both hold the sauce wonderfully and provide the perfect tender bite.
• 2 Tbsp olive oil: A good quality oil elevates the garlic sauté and carries subtle fruity notes into the sauce.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds an irresistible fragrant punch that forms the foundation of flavor.
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, chopped: These bring concentrated sweetness and tang that make the sauce unforgettable.
• ¾ cup heavy cream: The cream thickens the sauce and delivers a rich, velvety texture.
• ¼ cup parmesan: Parmesan adds saltiness and a nutty depth, balancing the creamy sauce perfectly.
• 1 burrata ball: This luscious cheese takes this dish to restaurant-level indulgence with its soft, oozy center.
• Salt, pepper, and basil to taste: Fresh basil brightens, while seasoning enhances every element.

How to Make Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Burrata

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your tagliatelle or penne until just al dente. This means the pasta should have a tender bite with a slight firmness in the center, perfect to soak up all the luscious sauce that comes next. Reserve a bit of pasta water before draining; it might come in handy to adjust the sauce consistency later.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

While your pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it turns golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn it — just that beautiful color and aroma will set the flavor foundation for your sauce.

Step 3: Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Next, toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes along with their infused oil. Stir them around for about a minute to release their sweet, tangy essence into the olive oil and garlic. This step infuses the base with powerful, rich flavor that will shine through the creamy sauce.

Step 4: Create the Cream Sauce

Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow it to thicken slightly, stirring occasionally. Then, sprinkle in the parmesan cheese and stir until it melts smoothly into the sauce. You’ll notice the sauce become luxuriously thick and coating — the perfect partner for the pasta.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet and toss well to coat every strand or piece in the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it and help the sauce cling beautifully to the noodles.

Step 6: Serve with Burrata and Basil

Divide the pasta into warm bowls and gently place a burrata ball on top of each serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a crack of black pepper. When you slice into the burrata, watch it melt its creamy heart into the warm pasta, creating a velvety finish that’s pure magic.

How to Serve Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Burrata

Garnishes

Fresh basil is a classic garnish that adds a pop of vibrant green and a refreshing herbaceous note to balance the creamy sauce. For a little extra crunch, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or a handful of peppery arugula. A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil right before serving can also amplify the richness.

Side Dishes

This luscious pasta pairs beautifully with simple side dishes that complement its flavors without overwhelming. Serve alongside a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette or a rustic garlic bread to soak up every last bit of sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes also make delightful companions.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, twirl the pasta elegantly into nests on large white plates, place the burrata artistically in the center, and scatter microgreens for an upscale look. You can even drizzle a balsamic reduction around the plate for a tangy-sweet contrast that dazzles your guests visually and on the palate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the pasta and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Burrata is best enjoyed fresh, so keep it aside until serving to preserve its creamy texture and flavor.

Freezing

Due to the delicate nature of the cream sauce and burrata, this dish is not ideal for freezing. The texture of the cream and cheese can change, resulting in a less satisfying experience once thawed. It’s best to enjoy this pasta fresh or within a couple of days when refrigerated.

Reheating

When reheating, warm the sauce gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen it if needed. Combine it with warmed pasta briefly to avoid drying out. Add the burrata fresh at serving time for the best melt-in-your-mouth effect.

FAQs

Can I use dried burrata instead of fresh?

Burrata is best served fresh to experience its signature creamy center melting into the pasta. Dried or aged burrata lacks that soft interior texture, so for this recipe, fresh burrata truly makes the difference.

Can I substitute heavy cream with a lighter alternative?

While you could use half-and-half or a blend of milk and cream, heavier cream provides the rich, thick sauce characteristic of this dish. Using lighter alternatives may result in a thinner sauce, missing that indulgent mouthfeel.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Absolutely! Simply swap the regular tagliatelle or penne for your favorite gluten-free pasta. The sauce remains just as delicious and creamy, offering everyone a chance to enjoy this Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Burrata.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

You can make the sun-dried tomato cream sauce a few hours ahead and keep it refrigerated. Reheat gently before tossing with freshly cooked pasta for a quick and satisfying meal.

What wine pairs well with Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Burrata?

A crisp, chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or a light Italian white like Vermentino beautifully complements the creamy sauce and bright basil notes, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Burrata, it will quickly become one of your go-to dishes for an easy yet unforgettable meal. The perfect harmony of creamy sauce, toasted garlic, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and that divine, melting burrata makes every forkful feel like a special occasion. So go ahead, invite some friends or simply savor it yourself—you deserve the delight this recipe brings!