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Creamy Burrata Cherry Tomato Pasta – Easy 20-Minute Dinner

creamy burrata cherry tomato pasta - featured image

This creamy burrata cherry tomato pasta comes together in just 20 minutes with only five main ingredients. The burrata melts into a luscious sauce while cherry tomatoes burst with sweetness, creating a restaurant-quality weeknight dinner that feels special without the effort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (225 g) pasta (spaghetti, bucatini, or fettuccine recommended)
  • 2 cups (300 g) cherry tomatoes
  • 8 oz (225 g) burrata cheese (about 2 balls), at room temperature
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup (10 g) packed fresh basil leaves
  • 3 tablespoons (45 ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) reserved pasta water

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (about 1 tablespoon salt per 4 quarts water).
  2. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (8-10 minutes). Before draining, reserve 1 cup pasta water.
  3. While pasta cooks, heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds (do not brown).
  4. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook over medium-high heat, shaking occasionally, until tomatoes blister and burst, about 4-5 minutes. Gently press any stubborn tomatoes with a wooden spoon.
  5. Season tomatoes with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (if using). Stir and reduce heat to low.
  6. Add drained pasta directly to the skillet with tomatoes. Toss to combine. If dry, add 1/4 cup reserved pasta water and toss again.
  7. Tear burrata into pieces and add to the skillet. Gently toss until the creamy center melts into a sauce, leaving soft mozzarella pieces.
  8. Add fresh basil leaves (torn or whole) and toss gently one more time.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning. Add more pasta water if needed for a silky sauce.
  10. Serve immediately, dividing among warm bowls. Top with extra basil and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Notes

Don’t overcook the garlic—it turns bitter. Let tomatoes really blister for depth. Bring burrata to room temperature before using for smooth melting. Add pasta water gradually to achieve the right sauce consistency. Best served immediately; leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in a skillet with a splash of water.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy burrata pasta, cherry tomato pasta, quick pasta dinner, 20-minute pasta, vegetarian pasta, easy weeknight dinner, burrata recipe