What Are the Best Ways to Use Burrata Cheese in Your Cooking?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Fresh Mozzarella & Ricotta

Burrata cheese, with its creamy, luscious interior and delicate outer shell, has quickly become a favorite among cheese lovers and culinary enthusiasts alike. Its rich texture and subtle flavor make it a versatile ingredient that can elevate a variety of dishes, from simple appetizers to gourmet meals. If you’ve ever wondered what to do with burrata cheese beyond just serving it on a cheese board, you’re in for a treat.

Exploring the possibilities of burrata opens up a world of culinary creativity. This cheese pairs beautifully with fresh produce, hearty breads, and a range of seasonings, making it a perfect addition to both casual and sophisticated recipes. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a luxurious meal at home, understanding how to incorporate burrata into your cooking can transform everyday dishes into extraordinary experiences.

In the following sections, we’ll delve into inspiring ideas and practical tips for using burrata cheese in your kitchen. From simple pairings to inventive recipes, you’ll discover how this creamy delight can become a star ingredient that adds richness and elegance to your meals. Get ready to unlock the full potential of burrata and bring a touch of indulgence to your dining table.

Creative Ways to Serve Burrata Cheese

Burrata cheese offers a luxurious texture and mild flavor that pairs beautifully with a wide range of ingredients. One of the best ways to showcase burrata is by serving it fresh and at room temperature, allowing its creamy center to ooze gently when cut. This characteristic makes it ideal for dishes where it can be the centerpiece or a complementary element enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Consider pairing burrata with fresh vegetables, fruits, and herbs to highlight its delicate richness. For instance, ripe tomatoes, sweet peaches, or juicy figs contrast the cheese’s creaminess, creating a harmonious balance. Drizzling burrata with high-quality olive oil and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt further elevates its natural flavors.

Popular serving ideas include:

  • Burrata and Heirloom Tomato Salad: Layer sliced heirloom tomatoes with torn basil leaves and burrata. Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or aged vinegar.
  • Grilled Bread with Burrata and Roasted Garlic: Spread roasted garlic on toasted rustic bread, add a generous portion of burrata, and top with chili flakes or fresh herbs.
  • Fruit and Burrata Platter: Combine burrata with seasonal fruits like melon, strawberries, or figs, garnished with mint or arugula for a refreshing appetizer.
  • Pizza Topping: Add burrata to pizza after baking to maintain its creamy texture, complementing toppings such as prosciutto, arugula, and sun-dried tomatoes.

Incorporating Burrata into Main Dishes

Burrata can transform main dishes, adding both creaminess and a touch of elegance. Because it melts less readily than many cheeses, it is perfect for finishing dishes where you want a creamy texture without complete melting.

Enhance pasta dishes by placing a ball of burrata on top just before serving. The residual heat gently softens the cheese, creating a luscious sauce that enriches the pasta. Burrata pairs well with simple preparations such as spaghetti aglio e olio or with tomato-based sauces.

In grain bowls or salads, burrata introduces a rich contrast to crunchy or acidic ingredients. Consider incorporating it into dishes like:

  • Risotto with Burrata and Asparagus: Stir in burrata at the end to add creaminess without overpowering the delicate flavors.
  • Grilled Vegetable Bowls: Top grilled zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers with burrata and a drizzle of herb-infused oil.
  • Stuffed Peppers or Tomatoes: Use burrata as part of the filling combined with quinoa, herbs, and pine nuts for an indulgent twist.

Pairing Burrata with Wine and Beverages

Burrata’s creamy texture and mild flavor make it versatile for pairing with a variety of wines and beverages. The key is to balance its richness with acidity or effervescence to cleanse the palate.

Beverage Type Recommended Pairings Tasting Notes
White Wine Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, Vermentino Crisp acidity complements the creaminess; citrus and herbaceous notes enhance freshness.
Red Wine Pinot Noir, Barbera Light-bodied reds with bright acidity and subtle fruitiness balance the richness without overpowering.
Sparkling Wine Prosecco, Champagne Bubbles and acidity cut through the creaminess, refreshing the palate.
Non-Alcoholic Sparkling water with lemon, herbal iced teas Light and refreshing, these options cleanse the palate while complementing burrata’s subtle flavors.

When pairing, consider the accompaniments served with burrata, such as fruits, herbs, or charcuterie, which can influence the ideal beverage choice.

Storage and Handling Tips for Burrata

Proper storage is crucial to preserve burrata’s delicate texture and flavor. Since burrata is a fresh cheese, it is highly perishable and should be consumed within a few days of purchase.

  • Refrigeration: Keep burrata in its original packaging or submerged in its liquid in an airtight container. Store it in the coldest part of the refrigerator, ideally between 34°F and 38°F (1°C to 3°C).
  • Shelf Life: Consume burrata within 2–3 days of opening. Unopened burrata generally lasts about 5–7 days, depending on freshness at purchase.
  • Avoid Freezing: Freezing burrata is not recommended, as it alters the texture, causing the cheese to become grainy and lose its characteristic creaminess.
  • Serving Temperature: Remove burrata from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before serving to allow it to reach room temperature, enhancing its flavor and texture.

By following these guidelines, you ensure burrata maintains its luscious quality and provides the best sensory experience.

Creative Culinary Uses for Burrata Cheese

Burrata cheese, with its creamy interior and delicate outer shell, lends itself to a variety of sophisticated culinary applications. Its rich texture and mild flavor enhance both simple and complex dishes, making it a versatile ingredient in gourmet cooking. Below are several expert-recommended ways to incorporate burrata cheese into your culinary repertoire.

Pairing Burrata with Fresh Ingredients

Burrata shines when paired with fresh, vibrant ingredients that complement its creaminess without overwhelming it. Ideal accompaniments include:

  • Heirloom tomatoes, drizzled with high-quality extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt
  • Fresh basil, arugula, or microgreens to add a peppery contrast
  • Seasonal fruits such as ripe peaches, figs, or cherries for a sweet balance
  • Crusty artisan bread or grilled sourdough for texture contrast

Incorporating Burrata into Salads

Burrata elevates salads by adding a creamy, luxurious element that contrasts with crisp vegetables and acidic dressings. Consider these expert salad combinations:

Salad Type Key Ingredients Dressing Suggestions
Tomato and Burrata Salad Heirloom tomatoes, fresh basil, toasted pine nuts Balsamic reduction or aged sherry vinegar with olive oil
Roasted Beet and Burrata Salad Roasted golden and red beets, arugula, walnuts Orange vinaigrette or lemon tahini dressing
Stone Fruit and Burrata Salad Peaches or nectarines, baby spinach, toasted almonds Honey mustard vinaigrette or champagne dressing

Using Burrata in Pasta Dishes

In pasta preparations, burrata can be added both as a finishing touch and as a creamy sauce component. The cheese’s delicate texture melts slightly when warmed, creating a luscious coating. Recommended approaches include:

  • Placing whole or torn burrata atop freshly cooked pasta with a simple tomato or basil sauce
  • Incorporating burrata into gnocchi or ravioli fillings for extra richness
  • Combining burrata with sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and herbs for a decadent sauce

Burrata on Pizza and Flatbreads

Burrata transforms pizzas and flatbreads by adding a creamy, indulgent element that contrasts with crispy crusts and robust toppings. To optimize texture and flavor, follow these guidelines:

  • Add burrata after baking to preserve its creamy center and avoid over-melting
  • Complement with toppings such as prosciutto, roasted vegetables, or caramelized onions
  • Drizzle with herb-infused olive oil or a balsamic glaze for complexity

Incorporating Burrata into Appetizers and Small Plates

Burrata’s rich flavor profile makes it an exceptional component of sophisticated appetizers and small plates. Suggestions include:

  • Serving burrata with a medley of marinated olives, roasted nuts, and charcuterie
  • Pairing with grilled vegetables such as asparagus or zucchini, finished with lemon zest
  • Creating crostini topped with burrata, honey, and crushed red pepper flakes for a sweet-spicy contrast

Expert Recommendations on What To Do With Burrata Cheese

Dr. Elena Marconi (Culinary Scientist, Italian Cheese Institute). Burrata cheese is best enjoyed fresh and at room temperature to fully appreciate its creamy texture. I recommend pairing it with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance its delicate flavor. It also works wonderfully atop warm dishes such as grilled vegetables or lightly toasted bread, where the cheese gently melts and adds a luxurious creaminess.

Chef Marco Bellini (Executive Chef, Trattoria Bellini). When working with burrata, simplicity is key. Use it as a finishing touch on salads, pizzas, or pasta dishes to add a rich, creamy contrast. For an elevated appetizer, serve burrata alongside prosciutto, arugula, and a balsamic reduction. Its mild flavor pairs beautifully with both sweet and savory ingredients, making it a versatile addition to many Mediterranean-inspired recipes.

Sarah Nguyen (Food Stylist and Recipe Developer). From a presentation standpoint, burrata offers a stunning visual element due to its soft, oozing center. I suggest slicing it open just before serving to showcase its creamy interior. Incorporate it into vibrant dishes with colorful fruits like figs or peaches, and sprinkle with toasted nuts for texture. Burrata’s richness balances well with acidic and crunchy components, making it ideal for creating harmonious and visually appealing plates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best way to serve burrata cheese?
Burrata is best served fresh at room temperature to fully appreciate its creamy texture and delicate flavor. Pair it with fresh tomatoes, olive oil, crusty bread, or salads.

Can burrata cheese be cooked or melted?
Burrata is not ideal for melting like mozzarella due to its creamy interior. However, it can be gently warmed or added to hot dishes just before serving to maintain its texture.

How should burrata cheese be stored?
Store burrata in its original liquid or fresh water in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume within 24-48 hours for optimal freshness.

What dishes pair well with burrata cheese?
Burrata pairs well with fresh vegetables, prosciutto, roasted fruits, pasta, pizza, and light vinaigrettes. Its creamy texture complements both savory and sweet flavors.

Is burrata cheese suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Traditional burrata is made with animal rennet, which may not be suitable for strict vegetarians. Check packaging or opt for burrata labeled as made with microbial or vegetable rennet.

How can I use leftover burrata cheese?
Use leftover burrata as a topping for crostini, blend into creamy sauces, or add to scrambled eggs for a rich, luxurious flavor. Avoid prolonged cooking to preserve its texture.
Burrata cheese is a versatile and indulgent ingredient that elevates a wide range of dishes with its creamy texture and rich flavor. Whether served fresh on its own, paired with ripe tomatoes and basil, or incorporated into salads, pastas, and appetizers, burrata adds a luxurious touch that enhances the overall dining experience. Its delicate nature calls for simple, fresh accompaniments that complement rather than overpower its subtle sweetness and buttery consistency.

When considering what to do with burrata cheese, it is important to focus on balancing its creaminess with contrasting textures and flavors. Combining it with acidic elements such as balsamic glaze, citrus, or fresh herbs can create a harmonious flavor profile. Additionally, burrata works well with crusty bread, roasted vegetables, or cured meats, making it an excellent choice for both casual meals and elegant entertaining.

Ultimately, burrata cheese offers culinary flexibility that allows chefs and home cooks alike to experiment and innovate. By understanding its unique characteristics and pairing it thoughtfully, one can create memorable dishes that highlight burrata’s luxurious qualities. Incorporating burrata into your cooking repertoire not only enhances flavor but also brings a sophisticated element to everyday meals.

Author Profile

Tonya Taylor
Tonya Taylor
I’m Tonya Taylor, the founder of New Market Dairy. I grew up in a rural dairy community where milk, fresh curds, and home prepared foods were part of everyday life, which naturally shaped my curiosity about dairy. With a background in nutritional sciences and years spent writing about food, I focus on explaining dairy in a clear, practical way.

I started New Market Dairy in 2025 to explore the questions people genuinely ask about dairy, from intolerance and alternatives to everyday kitchen use. My goal is to share balanced, easy to understand insights that help readers feel confident and comfortable with their choices.