This creamy pasta is a dream come true for garlic lovers! With fresh basil, crispy prosciutto, and creamy burrata cheese, it hits all the right notes of yumminess.
Making this dish is so easy, you’ll want to whip it up often. Plus, the melty burrata is great for a little cheese pull on Instagram. Who doesn’t love that? 📸
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using fettuccine for its wide, flat shape that holds the creamy sauce well. However, linguine or spaghetti are also great choices. If you’re gluten-free, try using chickpea pasta or zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
Prosciutto: This adds a lovely salty crunch. If you can’t find it or want a vegetarian option, crispy bacon or sautéed mushrooms work nicely to bring some depth to the dish.
Basil: Fresh basil is a must for that aromatic flavor. If you don’t have fresh, you can use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil, though the taste will differ a bit.
Heavy cream: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. Just keep in mind that it may change the overall flavor and creaminess.
Burrata: This is the star cheese! If burrata’s unavailable, fresh mozzarella is a suitable substitute, though it won’t be as creamy. A dollop of ricotta could also work for a different texture.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
Creating a luscious creamy sauce can feel tricky, but it’s all about heat and timing! Here’s how you can nail it:
- After cooking the garlic, make sure to lower the heat before adding the cream. This helps prevent the cream from curdling.
- Let the cream simmer gently; this helps it thicken without boiling.
- Always add cheese gradually while stirring. This ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
- If your sauce feels too thick, use that reserved pasta water. It not only thins but also adds flavor.
Trust me, following these tips will lead to a dreamy, creamy sauce you’ll love!
Creamy Basil Garlic Pasta with Prosciutto and Burrata
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (such as fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti)
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 4 oz (115 g) prosciutto, thinly sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 ball (about 4 oz/115 g) burrata cheese
- Optional: red pepper flakes, for a little heat
- Optional: zest of 1 lemon for brightness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing and cooking the pasta and another 20 minutes in the skillet crafting that creamy sauce. So, it’s quick and packed with flavor—perfect for a weeknight dinner!
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 according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite but cooked through). Don’t forget to reserve 1 cup of that starchy pasta water before draining.
2. Prepare the Prosciutto:
While the pasta is cooking, take a large skillet and heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the prosciutto slices, letting them sizzle until they’re crispy—about 3-5 minutes. Once done, remove them from the skillet and place them on paper towels to soak up any extra oil.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet (with all those yummy flavors left behind), add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in your minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden—just be careful not to let it burn!
4. Make the Cream Sauce:
Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring that garlicky goodness together. Let it simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes to thicken up a bit.
5. Add Cheese and Season:
Now it’s time for the cheese! Stir in the grated Parmesan until it melts and creates a smooth, creamy sauce. Taste it and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you find the sauce too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up!
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Toss your drained pasta into the skillet with the creamy sauce, making sure each strand is coated smoothly. Gently fold in the chopped fresh basil, allowing that aromatic flavor to pop through.
7. Serve with Prosciutto:
Plate your creamy pasta and generously sprinkle the crispy prosciutto on top for added crunch and flavor.
8. Finale with Burrata:
Lastly, tear the burrata cheese over your pasta. The creamy insides will melt beautifully into the dish, creating a rich finish.
9. Optional Toppings:
If you’d like a bit of kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top. For a fresh zing, add lemon zest and garnish with a few extra basil leaves.
10. Dig In!
Serve immediately while it’s warm and enjoy the creamy, garlicky, basil-infused goodness of your delicious pasta dish!
Enjoy your flavorful and indulgent Creamy Basil Garlic Pasta with Prosciutto and Burrata!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti are great choices, feel free to use any pasta you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions. For a gluten-free option, try chickpea pasta or zucchini noodles!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter or dairy-free option, you can use half-and-half or coconut milk. Keep in mind that the flavor and richness may change slightly, but they’ll still yield a creamy sauce!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove with a splash of water or cream to regain some creaminess, as the pasta may absorb moisture while stored.
Is There a Vegetarian Alternative for Prosciutto?
Yes! If you’d like to keep this dish vegetarian, you can substitute prosciutto with crispy cooked mushrooms, tempeh, or even extra veggies like asparagus or spinach for added flavor and texture!
