This creamy burrata spinach pasta is super comforting! The soft burrata cheese pairs perfectly with fresh spinach and pasta, making it a yummy meal everyone will love.
Honestly, who can resist that ooey-gooey burrata? It’s like a little cheese hug on your plate! I usually add a sprinkle of chili flakes for a bit of kick. 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: While I recommend fettuccine or linguine for a nice texture, feel free to use penne or any pasta you have at home. Just make sure it’s not too small, so it holds onto the creamy sauce well!
Fresh Spinach: If you can’t find fresh spinach, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to defrost and thoroughly drain it before adding it to the pan.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half or whole milk. It won’t be as creamy, but it will still taste delicious. You could also use a plant-based cream if you’re dairy-free.
Burrata: Burrata is the star of the show here! If you can’t find it, fresh mozzarella is a decent substitute, but the flavor and texture won’t be as rich. Go for the best cheese you can find!
How Do You Make the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
The sauce is key to your pasta’s creaminess! To achieve the perfect creamy sauce, follow these steps:
- Start by sautĂ©ing garlic in olive oil; watch it closely so it doesn’t burn.
- Add the spinach and let it wilt down before adding your heavy cream.
- Bring the cream to a simmer, then mix in the Parmesan cheese until it’s fully melted. Stir gently to combine all the flavors.
- If the sauce starts to get too thick, don’t panic! Just add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin it out while keeping it creamy.
Following these techniques will give you a smooth and delicious sauce that perfectly coats your pasta. Enjoy making it!
Creamy Burrata Spinach Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 ball burrata cheese (about 8 oz)
- Red chili flakes (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take around 20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes boiling the pasta and about 10 minutes making the creamy sauce before combining everything and serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. After cooking, drain the pasta but save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
3. Add Spinach:
Now, toss the roughly chopped spinach into the skillet. Cook it down for about 2-3 minutes until it’s wilted. This adds a lovely vibrant color and flavor to your dish!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Next, pour in the heavy cream and allow it to come to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s fully melted and the sauce is nice and creamy. Feel free to season it with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
Once your sauce is ready, add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce. If it feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
6. Serve it Up:
Transfer the creamy pasta to serving plates and top each portion with a generous piece of burrata cheese. The best part? When you cut into the burrata, it’ll ooze out its delicious creamy center!
7. Optional Garnish:
Finish off by sprinkling some red chili flakes and fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of flavor and color.
Serve immediately and enjoy this luscious, creamy burrata spinach pasta!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with any pasta shape you like, such as penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to follow the cooking time on the package to achieve the right texture!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
Is There a Dairy-Free Option?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with a full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Use non-dairy cheese instead of Parmesan and burrata for a completely dairy-free dish.
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
Consider adding some sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or even cooked chicken for a protein boost! Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme also work great for enhancing flavors.
