This creamy basil garlic pasta is a dream come true, especially with crispy prosciutto and creamy burrata on top. It’s a dish that feels fancy but is easy to make!
Who wouldn’t want a bowl full of cheesy goodness? I love the pop of flavor from the basil and the crunch of the prosciutto—it’s a match made in pasta heaven! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I usually go for fettuccine, but you can swap it out for linguine or spaghetti. If you’re gluten-free, try using chickpea or gluten-free pasta for a nice alternative.
Prosciutto: This adds a lovely salty crunch. If you can’t find prosciutto, bacon or pancetta work well, too. Just adjust cooking time as needed to achieve crispiness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for that punchy flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be a quick substitute. Use about 1/8 teaspoon for each clove.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter dish, you can use half-and-half instead. If you want a dairy-free option, coconut cream provides a creamy texture and a hint of sweetness.
Burrata: This cheese is creamy and soft, but you can swap it with fresh mozzarella if burrata isn’t available. A sprinkle of ricotta also adds a creamy touch!
How Can I Ensure My Pasta Stays Perfectly Al Dente?
Cooking pasta to the right texture is key for this dish. Here’s how to ace it:
- Start by boiling plenty of water and adding a good amount of salt; it should taste like the ocean.
- Stir occasionally and taste the pasta a minute or two before the package says it’s done.
- It should be firm to the bite yet tender. Remember, it will continue cooking once you drain it!
- Always reserve a cup of pasta water before draining—it helps to adjust the sauce later.
Give it a try, and you’ll see how delicious your creamy basil garlic pasta can be with perfect pasta!
Creamy Basil Garlic Pasta with Prosciutto and Burrata
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti)
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 4 oz (115 g) prosciutto, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 8 oz (225 g) burrata cheese
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a little heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy pasta dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend roughly 15 minutes prepping and cooking the ingredients, and then 5-10 minutes plating it all up. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your chosen pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente (cooked but still firm to the bite). Remember to reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. Set the drained pasta aside and keep it warm.
2. Crisp the Prosciutto:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced prosciutto and cook it until it becomes crispy, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Once crispy, remove it from the skillet and place it on paper towels to drain excess oil.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn; you want it fragrant and lightly golden.
4. Make the Cream Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and gently bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until it’s melted and smooth. This creamy sauce is going to be the heart of your dish!
5. Add Fresh Flavor:
Stir in the chopped basil, and season your sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This will enhance the basil’s flavor and make it all come together beautifully.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss it well to ensure it is thoroughly coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, you can loosen it by adding the reserved pasta water a little bit at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
7. Incorporate the Prosciutto:
Gently fold in half of the crispy prosciutto into the pasta mixture, allowing its crunchiness to mix with the creamy sauce.
8. Plate and Garnish:
Dish out your creamy basil garlic pasta onto plates. Top each serving with torn pieces of burrata cheese, and sprinkle with the remaining crispy prosciutto for that delightful crunch.
9. Final Touches:
Garnish your pasta with extra basil leaves for freshness and, if you like a little heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. This adds an extra kick to your dish.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately while the pasta is warm and creamy. Enjoy every bite of this savory, comforting dish bursting with delicious flavors!
This recipe truly balances creamy, savory, and fresh herb flavors with the crunchy prosciutto and luxurious burrata cheese, making for a delightful meal every time. Bon appétit!
FAQ
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti are great options, you can experiment with other types of pasta like penne or even whole wheat pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed for different shapes.
What if I Don’t Have Burrata Cheese?
No worries! If burrata isn’t available, fresh mozzarella is a fantastic substitute. You can also use ricotta cheese for a creamy texture, though it won’t have the same stretch as burrata. Add it right before serving for a lovely finish!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to revive the sauce’s creamy consistency.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make this dish vegan, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan and omit the prosciutto, or swap it for crispy plant-based bacon. Use your favorite vegan cheese instead of burrata for another delicious twist!