Burrata is a luxurious Italian cheese known for its smooth outer shell and rich, creamy center. Its delicate texture and fresh, milky flavor make it a favorite among cheese lovers. Whether served simply with olive oil and bread or added to salads and pasta, burrata elevates any dish with its indulgent taste.
What is Burrata Cheese?
Burrata is a fresh Italian cheese made from cow’s milk, though some versions use buffalo milk. It has a firm mozzarella shell that encases a soft, creamy filling called stracciatella, a mix of mozzarella shreds and fresh cream.
The name “burrata” comes from the Italian word burro, meaning “butter.” This reflects its rich, buttery texture. Burrata is best enjoyed fresh, often paired with tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil.
History and Origin
Burrata originated in Apulia (Puglia), a region in Southern Italy, specifically in the city of Andria, in the early 20th century. Cheesemakers created it as a way to use leftover mozzarella curds by mixing them with cream and sealing them inside a mozzarella pouch.
Initially, burrata was a local specialty, but its popularity quickly spread. Today, it is enjoyed worldwide in gourmet restaurants and home kitchens alike.
The Unique Composition of Burrata
Outer Shell and Inner Filling
Burrata stands out because of its two distinct layers:
- Outer Shell: A thin layer of mozzarella that holds everything together. It has a slightly firm and elastic texture.
- Inner Filling (Stracciatella): A creamy blend of shredded mozzarella and fresh cream, giving burrata its signature soft and velvety consistency.
When cut, burrata spills open, revealing its luscious, creamy interior. This makes it visually appealing and enhances its indulgent texture.
Texture and Flavor Profile
Burrata’s smooth texture and fresh, milky flavor make it a unique cheese.
- Texture: The outside is soft yet firm, while the inside is creamy and buttery.
- Flavor: Mild, slightly sweet, and rich in dairy notes. It easily absorbs the flavors of olive oil, balsamic glaze, or fresh herbs.
Its mild taste and soft texture allow it to pair well with various ingredients, making it a versatile choice for many dishes.
How to Make a Burrata Cheese Ball at Home
Making burrata at home requires patience, but the result is worth it. With just a few ingredients and careful technique, you can create a fresh, creamy burrata cheese ball right in your kitchen.
Ingredients You Need
To make homemade burrata, gather these simple ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh mozzarella curd
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Warm water (for stretching the mozzarella)
- Ice water (for cooling the mozzarella)
Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare the Filling
- Tear or shred some mozzarella curd into small pieces.
- Mix it with heavy cream and salt to create the stracciatella filling. Set aside.
- Heat and Stretch the Mozzarella
- Place the remaining mozzarella curd in warm water (about 175°F / 80°C).
- Once soft, knead and stretch it until smooth and pliable.
- Form the Outer Shell
- Flatten a piece of stretched mozzarella into a thin, circular sheet.
- Place a spoonful of the creamy filling in the center.
- Seal the Burrata Ball
- Gather the edges of the mozzarella sheet and pinch them together to seal the filling inside.
- Place the burrata in ice water to cool and set its shape.
- Serve Fresh
- Enjoy immediately or store in a container with lightly salted water for up to a day.
15 Ways to Enjoy Burrata Cheese Balls
Burrata cheese balls are a culinary delight that elevate both simple and gourmet dishes. With their firm mozzarella shell and creamy stracciatella filling, they offer a luxurious texture and mild, milky flavor. Burrata pairs beautifully with both sweet and savory ingredients, making it an incredibly versatile cheese. Whether served fresh or incorporated into a warm dish, burrata transforms any meal into something special.
Here are 15 delicious ways to enjoy burrata cheese balls, along with tips to enhance each preparation.
1. Classic Caprese Style
A twist on the traditional Caprese salad, burrata adds extra creaminess to the simple combination of tomatoes and basil.
How to Serve:
- Arrange ripe heirloom tomatoes on a plate.
- Place a whole burrata cheese ball in the center.
- Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze.
- Sprinkle with sea salt and cracked black pepper.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
🔹 Tip: Let the burrata sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving to enhance its flavor.
2. Burrata with Prosciutto and Melon
This classic Italian appetizer balances the saltiness of prosciutto with the sweetness of melon, creating a light yet indulgent dish.
How to Serve:
- Slice ripe cantaloupe or honeydew melon into wedges.
- Wrap each slice with thinly sliced prosciutto.
- Add a burrata cheese ball in the center of the plate.
- Drizzle with honey or balsamic glaze.
🔹 Tip: Serve with toasted bread or crackers for extra texture.
3. Drizzled with Honey and Nuts
For a sweet and savory contrast, burrata pairs beautifully with honey and toasted nuts.
How to Serve:
- Place burrata on a serving plate.
- Drizzle with raw honey or truffle honey.
- Sprinkle with toasted walnuts, almonds, or pistachios.
- Serve with figs, pears, or dates.
🔹 Tip: Use warm honey for an even richer flavor.
4. Served on a Pizza
Burrata takes homemade or restaurant-style pizza to the next level.
How to Serve:
- Bake a thin-crust pizza with tomato sauce, garlic, and fresh basil.
- After baking, place a burrata ball in the center.
- Let it melt slightly before cutting into slices.
🔹 Tip: For a gourmet twist, add truffle oil or chili flakes before serving.
5. Tossed in a Pasta Dish
Burrata melts beautifully when added to warm pasta dishes, creating a creamy sauce.
How to Serve:
- Cook spaghetti, rigatoni, or pappardelle.
- Toss with roasted cherry tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil.
- Place a burrata ball on top and let it melt.
- Garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese.
🔹 Tip: Try it with pesto pasta or truffle-infused cream sauce.
6. Over a Fresh Salad
Burrata adds richness and texture to fresh, crisp salads.
How to Serve:
- Use arugula, spinach, or mixed greens as a base.
- Add avocado, cherry tomatoes, and red onions.
- Place a burrata cheese ball on top.
- Dress with lemon vinaigrette or balsamic reduction.
🔹 Tip: Add grilled shrimp or chicken for extra protein.
7. With Roasted Vegetables
Burrata’s creaminess balances the smoky flavors of roasted vegetables.
How to Serve:
- Roast zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant with olive oil and herbs.
- Arrange on a plate with a burrata cheese ball.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze.
🔹 Tip: Serve with toasted sourdough bread.
8. On a Crostini
A simple yet elegant appetizer, crostini with burrata is perfect for entertaining.
How to Serve:
- Toast baguette slices.
- Spread with garlic-infused olive oil.
- Add burrata, sun-dried tomatoes, and arugula.
🔹 Tip: Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes for a kick.
9. Paired with Truffle Oil
The earthy aroma of truffle oil enhances burrata’s richness.
How to Serve:
- Drizzle truffle oil over a burrata cheese ball.
- Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and black pepper.
- Serve with grilled mushrooms or roasted potatoes.
🔹 Tip: Try it with freshly shaved black truffle for an extra indulgent touch.
10. Stuffed in a Sandwich
Burrata makes an amazing sandwich filling, adding creaminess to every bite.
How to Serve:
- Use ciabatta or focaccia bread.
- Layer with grilled chicken, pesto, and arugula.
- Add burrata cheese before closing the sandwich.
🔹 Tip: Toast the bread lightly for extra crunch.
11. As a Unique Bruschetta Topping
Burrata adds creaminess to classic bruschetta.
How to Serve:
- Chop tomatoes, garlic, and basil.
- Place on toasted bread with burrata on top.
🔹 Tip: Add aged balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.
12. Served with Balsamic Reduction
A simple yet elegant way to enjoy burrata.
How to Serve:
- Place burrata on a plate.
- Drizzle with thick balsamic reduction.
- Add fresh figs or pears.
🔹 Tip: Pair with prosciutto for a savory twist.
13. Blended into a Creamy Dip
Burrata can be blended into a silky, flavorful dip.
How to Serve:
- Blend burrata with Greek yogurt, garlic, and lemon juice.
- Serve with vegetables or toasted pita chips.
🔹 Tip: Add fresh herbs like dill or basil for extra flavor.
14. Accompanied by Grilled Peaches
The sweetness of grilled peaches complements burrata beautifully.
How to Serve:
- Grill halved peaches until caramelized.
- Serve with burrata and a drizzle of honey.
🔹 Tip: Add toasted almonds or pistachios for crunch.
15. Mixed into a Risotto
Burrata adds creaminess and richness to risotto.
How to Serve:
- Stir burrata into warm risotto just before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan.
🔹 Tip: Try it with mushroom or saffron risotto
Conclusion
Burrata cheese balls are a versatile and indulgent ingredient that can enhance a wide variety of dishes. Whether served fresh in a Caprese salad, paired with sweet fruits and honey, or melted into warm pasta and risotto, burrata adds a rich, creamy texture that elevates every bite.
Its mild flavor and soft interior make it a perfect pairing for both simple and gourmet recipes, allowing it to complement everything from roasted vegetables and bruschetta to truffle oil and balsamic reduction.
By experimenting with these 15 creative ways to enjoy burrata, you can discover new and exciting ways to incorporate this delicious Italian cheese into your meals. Whether you’re preparing a quick appetizer, a hearty main course, or a unique twist on a classic dish, burrata brings a touch of luxury and indulgence to any dining experience.
Enjoy burrata at its freshest, pair it with high-quality ingredients, and savor its creamy goodness in every bite!
