This creamy pasta dish is a heavenly mix of rich flavors! With fresh basil, tasty garlic, and creamy burrata cheese, it’s sure to bring smiles to your table.
And let’s not forget the prosciutto—it adds a nice touch of saltiness. I love making this for a cozy dinner. It feels fancy but comes together so easily. You’ll impress everyone!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend fettuccine for its ability to hold onto the creamy sauce. If you’re looking for alternatives, spaghetti or penne work just as well. Gluten-free pasta can also replace traditional pasta for those with gluten sensitivities.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is key for that aromatic flavor. In a pinch, you can use dried basil, but use half the amount, as it’s more concentrated. If you want a different twist, try using parsley or arugula instead for an interesting taste.
Heavy Cream: I love heavy cream for its rich texture. If you’re watching calories, half-and-half could be a lighter alternative. For dairy-free options, use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative to keep it creamy.
Prosciutto: This adds a lovely savory kick. If you want a healthier option, turkey bacon can substitute, or if you prefer a vegetarian dish, sautéed mushrooms provide that umami flavor without meat.
Burrata: Burrata is an amazing creamy cheese that takes this dish over the top. If you can’t find it, fresh mozzarella or ricotta could be good substitutes, but they’ll change the texture slightly.
How Do I Get the Perfect Cream Sauce?
Making the cream sauce is one of the crucial steps in this recipe. You want it to be silky and rich. Pay attention to these steps to achieve that perfect consistency:
- Start by sautéing your garlic gently—only for 1-2 minutes—to prevent burning, which can make it bitter.
- When adding the cream, keep the heat to low to avoid boiling; simmer it lightly to allow it to thicken without curdling.
- Incorporate the Parmesan cheese slowly, stirring constantly to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
- If your sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired consistency. Just like that, your sauce will be perfect!
Creamy Basil Garlic Pasta with Prosciutto and Burrata
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) fettuccine or your preferred pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 oz (115 g) prosciutto, thinly sliced
- 8 oz (225 g) burrata cheese
- Optional: Red pepper flakes, for a little heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25 minutes in total: around 10 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick meal perfect for weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. After cooking, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, drain the rest, and set the pasta aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for 1-2 minutes, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown, as that can give it a bitter taste.
3. Add Basil:
Stir in the chopped basil and let it cook for about a minute. The warm oil will help release the basil’s flavors into the dish.
4. Make the Cream Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 3-4 minutes, which helps thicken the sauce a bit.
5. Stir in the Cheese:
Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts, creating a smooth and creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that prosciutto is salty, so you might want to start with less salt!
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now, toss the cooked pasta into the creamy sauce, mixing well. If it’s too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you get your desired consistency. The sauce should be creamy but not too runny.
7. Add Prosciutto:
Tear the prosciutto into bite-sized pieces and gently fold them into the pasta. This adds lovely chunks of savory goodness throughout the dish.
8. Serve with Burrata:
When plating, arrange the pasta on individual plates or a large serving dish. Top each serving with generous pieces of burrata cheese. The creamy burrata will melt beautifully into the hot pasta!
9. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finish by garnishing with extra fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Serve immediately and enjoy this deliciously creamy, garlicky pasta that feels like a treat!
FAQ for Creamy Basil Garlic Pasta with Prosciutto and Burrata
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is great for holding the creamy sauce, you can use spaghetti, penne, or even gluten-free options if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk can work, but they won’t be as creamy. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut cream or a plant-based cream. Just keep in mind that this might alter the flavor slightly.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to help loosen the sauce.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the prosciutto and add vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted cherry tomatoes for flavor and texture. You can also add more cheese if you like!
