Ingredients
For the Tomato Sauce
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, plus more for sprinkling
- 3 cups cherry or grape tomatoes
- Kosher salt and pepper, to taste
For the Pasta
- ½ pound pasta (such as spaghetti or bucatini)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil, plus more for sprinkling
- 8 ounces burrata cheese
- Parmesan cheese, for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the tomato sauce: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook gently for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. Then add the cherry tomatoes along with a big pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss the tomatoes in the oil and cook for 20 to 25 minutes until they soften and begin to burst, releasing their juices. Adjust heat as necessary to encourage bursting but avoid burning the garlic.
- Cook the pasta: While the tomatoes cook, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta once done, reserving some pasta water if needed.
- Toss pasta with sauce and basil: Transfer the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the burst tomatoes. Toss well to coat all noodles in the flavorful sauce. Turn off the heat and add chopped fresh basil, stirring gently to combine.
- Add burrata cheese: Tear the burrata into pieces or add it whole, mixing it through the pasta to your desired creaminess. Taste the pasta and season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Dish the pasta onto plates and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, extra chopped fresh basil, and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.
Notes
- Use high-quality burrata for the best creamy texture and flavor.
- If the tomatoes are not bursting sufficiently, increase heat slightly but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- You can reserve some pasta water and add it to the skillet for a looser sauce if desired.
- Add extra crushed red pepper flakes for more heat.
- This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the creamy burrata at its peak.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian