When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can stand up to a hearty plate of pasta. This baked burrata pasta dish is a twist on the classic Italian favorite, combining the creamy goodness of burrata cheese with the savory flavor of a freshly-made homemade sauce.
The star of this dish is the burrata cheese, a type of fresh Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream. As the cheese melts, it imparts a creamy texture and flavor that is hard to resist. The sauce for this recipe is a classic tomato sauce, made with onion, garlic, olive oil, and tomatoes. To add a bit of texture and flavor, we’ve thrown in some olives and mushrooms, as well as a generous handful of freshly chopped basil.
Baked burrata pasta is the perfect dish for an easy weeknight meal. It’s also an excellent option for entertaining, as it can easily be served as an appetizer or side dish. To make it even more special, try adding some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Ingredients
For the sauce:
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup olives, sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the pasta:
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 8-ounce ball of burrata cheese, torn into small pieces
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the tomatoes, olives, mushrooms, and basil and bring to a simmer. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is thickened. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, to taste.
3. Meanwhile, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
4. In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, layer the cooked penne, the sauce, and the burrata cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
5. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you make baked burrata pasta?
To make baked burrata pasta, start by making a tomato sauce. Heat some olive oil in a large saucepan and add diced onion and garlic. Add tomatoes, olives, mushrooms, and basil and simmer until the sauce is thickened. Meanwhile, cook some penne pasta in salted water until al dente. Layer the cooked penne, the sauce, and the burrata cheese in a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Serve topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
What type of cheese is burrata?
Burrata is a type of fresh Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream. It has a creamy texture and flavor when melted, making it a great addition to pasta dishes.
What is a good side dish for baked burrata pasta?
Baked burrata pasta makes a great main dish, but it can also be served as an appetizer or side dish. To complete the meal, try serving it with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.
How long does baked burrata pasta last?
Leftover baked burrata pasta will keep for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Can I make baked burrata pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it. To reheat, place the baking dish in the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) until heated through.
