This Spicy Tomato Burrata Pasta is a warm and comforting dish with rich flavors. The creamy burrata melts beautifully over the spicy tomato sauce, making every bite delicious!
Making this dish is a breeze! I love how the heat from the sauce wakes up my taste buds. Pair it with a slice of garlic bread, and you’ve got a meal that feels fancy yet super easy! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using spaghetti or linguine for this dish, but penne works well too! If you need a gluten-free option, whole wheat or gluten-free pasta is a great alternative.
Crushed Tomatoes: Opt for good-quality canned crushed tomatoes for the best flavor. If you don’t have any, fresh tomatoes can be used instead—about 2 pounds of peeled and crushed tomatoes would work.
Burrata: Burrata is creamy and delicious, but if you can’t find it, fresh mozzarella is a good substitute. Just slice it and maybe add a splash of olive oil for extra flavor.
Chili Flakes: The heat level is adjustable! If you want less spice, use half the amount or try a milder pepper like paprika for flavor without the heat.
How Do I Get the Perfect Consistency for My Sauce?
Getting the right sauce consistency is essential for a great pasta dish! If your sauce seems too thick, there’s a simple trick here:
- After cooking the pasta, don’t forget to reserve some pasta water—it’s starchy and helps bind the sauce to the pasta.
- Add the reserved water gradually as you mix the pasta into the sauce; this allows you to adjust its thickness smoothly.
- Always remember to adjust seasoning at the end, as the added pasta water can dilute flavors.
Spicy Tomato Burrata Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (such as spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
- For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- For Serving:
- Fresh basil leaves, roughly torn
- 1 large ball burrata cheese (about 8 oz)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking the sauce, and another 15 minutes cooking the pasta and combining everything. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Don’t forget to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta!
2. Make the Sauce:
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté until soft and translucent—this should take about 3-4 minutes. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
3. Add the Flavors:
Next, sprinkle in the red chili flakes and smoked paprika (if using). Stir them in for about 30 seconds to let their aroma fill the air. Then, pour in the crushed tomatoes and mix everything well. Season with salt, pepper, and sugar (if you like). Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring it occasionally to let those flavors meld together.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Once your sauce is ready, add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together so the pasta is well-coated with the sauce. If you find the sauce too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you get your desired consistency.
5. Finish and Serve:
Just before serving, sprinkle in the torn basil leaves, giving everything a final toss. Now, plate the pasta and carefully place the burrata ball right on top. When you’re ready to enjoy, slice into the burrata, letting the creamy center flow over the pasta. It’s all about that creamy goodness!
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you like, add extra basil leaves for garnish and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top. Dig in and enjoy this delightful, spicy dish!
FAQ for Spicy Tomato Burrata Pasta
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If using fresh tomatoes, you’ll need about 2 pounds of peeled and crushed tomatoes. Just be sure to simmer them long enough to reduce until you reach a good sauce consistency.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain the sauce consistency.
Is It Possible to Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes! You can skip the burrata and substitute it with a plant-based cheese or some creamy cashew sauce for added creaminess without the dairy. The recipe will still be delicious!
What Can I Serve on the Side?
This pasta pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, you might also consider serving it with grilled vegetables or a side of roasted asparagus.
