This creamy basil garlic pasta is a dream! It features smooth sauce, crispy prosciutto, and lovely burrata cheese that melts in your mouth. Perfect for pasta lovers!
The combo of garlic and basil is simply delightful. I can’t help but smile every time I take a bite. Just imagine twirling that pasta around your fork—yum!
I love how quick this dish is to whip up. It’s fancy enough for guests but easy enough for a weeknight dinner. Serve it up with a sprinkle of extra cheese for a treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Use fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free pasta options made from rice or chickpeas that work well too!
Prosciutto: I love the salty crunch of prosciutto, but you can swap it for crispy bacon or pancetta if you prefer. For a vegetarian option, consider sautéing mushrooms to add some umami flavor!
Heavy Cream: This gives the pasta its creamy texture. If you’re looking to lighten it up, try half-and-half or a non-dairy cream. Just be aware that it may change the flavor slightly.
Basil: Fresh basil is a must for flavor! If it’s hard to find, you can use dried basil in a pinch, but reduce the amount since dried herbs are more potent.
Burrata: The creamy burrata adds a luxurious touch. If burrata isn’t available, fresh mozzarella or even ricotta can be used instead for a different texture.
How Do I Make Sure My Sauce Doesn’t Curdle?
Making a creamy sauce can be tricky. To keep it smooth, follow these steps:
- Cook the garlic on medium-low heat to avoid burning it, which can make the sauce bitter.
- Make sure to gently simmer the cream. Boiling can cause the sauce to separate.
- Add the cheese gradually, stirring constantly until it’s fully melted before adding more.
- If the sauce thickens too much, slowly add the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired creaminess.
These tips can help you achieve a smooth, luscious sauce every time!
Creamy Basil Garlic Pasta with Prosciutto & Burrata
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz pasta (such as fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti)
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 4 oz prosciutto, sliced into strips
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (reserve some for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 ball burrata cheese (about 6 oz)
- Optional: red pepper flakes, for a bit of heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy basil garlic pasta takes about 25 minutes to make from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and cooking the pasta and another 15 minutes on the sauce and assembling everything. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Remember to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining it. This will help adjust the sauce later!
2. Prepare the Prosciutto:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the prosciutto strips and cook them until they’re crisp and slightly golden, which should take about 3-5 minutes. When done, transfer the prosciutto to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess fat.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Using the same skillet (no need to clean it!), add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Garlic is next—add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant. Just be careful not to burn it!
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese gradually until it melts and the sauce becomes a little thicker, which should take around 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the Basil and Season:
Once your sauce is nice and creamy, add in the chopped basil. Stir everything together and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Feel free to sprinkle in some red pepper flakes if you want a little kick!
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now it’s time to add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the cream sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. If the sauce seems a bit too thick, add a little of that reserved pasta water until you reach the consistency you like.
7. Plate and Garnish:
Transfer your creamy pasta to serving plates. Tear the burrata cheese and place it on top. Finally, sprinkle the crispy prosciutto and some extra fresh basil leaves for garnish.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Dig in right away! This creamy basil garlic pasta with prosciutto and burrata is sure to impress. Enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture in every bite!
FAQs for Creamy Basil Garlic Pasta with Prosciutto & Burrata
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds a nice nutty flavor and is a healthier option. For gluten-free diets, look for gluten-free pasta made from rice or chickpeas. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply omit the prosciutto. You can replace it with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for that umami flavor. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts on top can also add some crunch!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
While the dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove before adding freshly cooked pasta. Just remember that the burrata is best added just before serving for the ideal creaminess!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.
