As the first hints of chill creep into the air, there’s nothing quite like gathering loved ones for a heartwarming meal that brings comfort and joy. Picture this: a bubbling hot casserole fresh from the oven, filled with al dente ziti, velvety burrata, and a rich tomato sauce infused with aromatic herbs. This Baked Ziti with Burrata is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that makes any gathering feel special.
I stumbled upon this delightful recipe during a cozy cook-off with friends, and it quickly became a signature dish in my kitchen. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, yet its vibrant layers of flavor and creamy texture will leave everyone raving. Perfect for those nights when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen, this ziti combines the savory richness of sausage and pancetta with the luxurious touch of burrata, creating a crowd-pleasing favorite that feels fancy yet comforting. Let’s dive into this recipe that will warm both hearts and homes!
Why choose Burrata Baked Ziti tonight?
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress family and friends, making it the highlight of any gathering.
Creamy Indulgence: The luscious burrata creates a rich, velvety sauce that elevates the classic ziti.
Simple Prep: With easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have this comforting meal ready in no time, without the hassle.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of spicy sausage, pancetta, and aromatic herbs delivers an unforgettable taste experience.
Versatile Delight: Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a festive occasion, this baked ziti fits right in at any table.
Savory Layers: Each bite is wonderfully balanced with a mix of textures and flavors, making it a meal that everyone will love.
Burrata Baked Ziti Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Ziti – a short-cut pasta that holds onto the sauce wonderfully; feel free to substitute with any pasta you have on hand.
For the Sauce
• Extra virgin olive oil – adds depth and richness; drizzle some extra for serving!
• Pancetta – brings a smoky flavor; it can be replaced with bacon if preferred.
• Bulk sweet Italian sausage – offers a mild, savory taste; swap with turkey sausage for a lighter option.
• Bulk hot Italian sausage – adds a spicy kick; use mild sausage if you’re sensitive to heat.
• Garlic – enhances the overall flavor with its aromatic edge; fresh is always best!
• Yellow onion – gives a sweet base flavor; shallots can be used as a mild alternative.
• Crushed tomatoes – forms the sauce base; diced tomatoes can work in a pinch.
• Balsamic vinegar – adds a touch of acidity to balance the flavors; red wine vinegar is a good substitute.
• Dried oregano – delivers a warm herbal note; fresh oregano can heighten the flavor.
• Dried basil – brings sweetness; fresh basil will add an even fresher taste to your baked ziti.
• Dried thyme – imparts a subtle earthy tone; feel free to omit if you don’t have it.
• Salt – enhances all the flavors; remember to adjust to taste!
• Pepper – adds a bit of bite; freshly cracked pepper gives the best flavor.
• Crushed red pepper flakes – a pinch adds an extra pop of heat; reduce or eliminate for a milder dish.
• Fresh basil – brightens the dish with its vibrant flavor; tear it for added freshness right before serving.
For the Cheesy Topping
• Burrata – this creamy delight melts beautifully and adds luxurious texture; if unavailable, use mozzarella.
• Finely grated parmesan cheese – adds a salty, nutty flavor; keep some extra for serving to impress!
Prepare these ingredients, and you’re on your way to creating a delectable Burrata Baked Ziti that will have your guests asking for seconds!
How to Make Burrata Baked Ziti
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Preheat your oven to 375°F. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta. Cook the ziti until it’s just a minute shy of al dente, then drain it and toss with a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking.
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Sauté the pancetta in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy, and then remove it from the pan. Let it drain on paper towels to keep it crisp.
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Brown the sausages next! Add both the sweet and hot Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking them apart with a spatula. Cook for about 6-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Add the garlic and onion after, sautéing for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
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Combine the sauce ingredients. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, oregano, basil, thyme, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a rapid simmer, then lower the heat and let it simmer gently for 10 minutes.
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Incorporate fresh basil into the sauce. If necessary, transfer the sauce to a larger oven-safe baking dish. Add in the ziti, 8 ounces of torn burrata, and 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese. Stir well to combine and spread the ziti evenly in the dish.
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Layer on more cheese! Top the ziti with another 8 ounces of torn burrata and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the edges are golden and the cheese is bubbly. For added bubbly goodness, broil for 2 minutes if desired. Once done, let it cool for about 10 minutes.
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Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Serve warm with the remaining 8 ounces of torn burrata, extra parmesan, and a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor. Enjoy this delightful meal!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of extra heat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Burrata Baked Ziti are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the ziti and sauce separately up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the pasta until just short of al dente and let it cool (this prevents sogginess), then refrigerate it in an airtight container. Make the sauce as directed and allow it to cool before storing it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy your baked ziti, combine the ingredients in a baking dish, add the burrata and parmesan, and bake as instructed, extending the cooking time by 5-10 minutes if baking straight from the fridge. You’ll have a delicious meal that’s just as creamy and satisfying as if it were made fresh!
Expert Tips for Burrata Baked Ziti
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Pasta Precision: Cook the ziti just shy of al dente; it will continue cooking in the oven, and this avoids mushy pasta.
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Serving Temperature: Let the baked ziti rest for 10 minutes after baking; this allows the flavors to meld and makes serving easier.
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Layer It Right: Layering in the burrata adds creaminess; don’t skip this step—it’s what makes the dish a showstopper!
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Balsamic Boost: Balance the acidity and sweetness with balsamic vinegar; too much can overpower, so start with a little and adjust to taste.
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Cheese Choices: If burrata isn’t available, use fresh mozzarella as a substitute; however, the creaminess of burrata truly elevates this Burrata Baked Ziti.
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Mix It Up: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition—just sauté them with onions and garlic for a flavor boost.
Burrata Baked Ziti Variations
Feel free to explore these creative twists and swaps to make this classic dish uniquely yours!
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace all meats with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers for a hearty veggie option.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to ensure everyone can enjoy this comforting dish without gluten.
- Creamy Mushroom: Add sautéed mushrooms to the sauce for an earthy flavor and extra creaminess. The juiciness of mushrooms pairs beautifully with the existing ingredients.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a tablespoon of sriracha or diced jalapeños for an extra layer of heat that elevates each bite.
- Herb Boost: Infuse the sauce with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic boost that complements the creamy burrata.
- Cajun Style: Spice things up with Cajun seasoning and andouille sausage for a zesty twist that’s sure to surprise and delight!
- Nutty Flavor: Incorporate toasted pine nuts or walnuts before baking for additional crunch and a nutty, complex flavor.
- Cheesy Explosion: Swap burrata for a mix of fontina and mozzarella for a super cheesy variation that has a delightful stretch!
Embrace your culinary creativity and enjoy this comforting, versatile dish your way!
How to Store and Freeze Burrata Baked Ziti
Room Temperature: Let the ziti cool completely before leaving it at room temperature for up to 2 hours. This prevents bacterial growth and keeps your meal safe.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover and warm in the oven for best results.
Freezer: Wrap tightly in freezer-safe packaging to freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for a comforting meal anytime.
Reheating: Restore creaminess by adding a splash of cream or a drizzle of olive oil when reheating. Enjoy the deliciousness of your Burrata Baked Ziti as if it were freshly made!
What to Serve with Burrata Baked Ziti?
Pair your warm and cheesy ziti with sides that enhance its comforting flavors and textures.
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Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery crunch complements the creamy ziti. It’s perfect for mopping up every bit of sauce.
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Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with dressed greens and crunchy vegetables offers a light contrast to the richness of the ziti. Drizzle with a zesty vinaigrette for added brightness.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add a lovely char and balance the savory flavors. Their sweetness pairs beautifully with the ziti’s hearty richness.
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Red Wine: A glass of Chianti or Merlot elevates the meal’s essence, enhancing its warm flavors with a hint of berry and herbal notes.
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Tiramisu: For dessert, this classic Italian treat rounds out your meal with its creamy layers and coffee kick, leaving everyone on a sweet note.
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Lemon Sorbet: As a refreshing palate cleanser, the sorbet’s bright zest contrasts nicely with the indulgent ziti, leaving guests feeling light and satisfied.
These pairings will create a delightful dining experience that showcases your delicious Burrata Baked Ziti!
Burrata Baked Ziti Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose ripe tomatoes for my sauce?
Absolutely! Look for tomatoes that are bright in color and feel slightly soft when gently squeezed. You want to avoid any that have dark spots or are overly firm, as they may not have the best flavor. If using canned tomatoes, opt for those without added preservatives for the freshest taste.
How should I store leftovers of my Burrata Baked Ziti?
Very simple! Let your baked ziti cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just remember to reheat individual portions in the microwave or place the entire dish covered in the oven until warmed through; this method helps maintain the dish’s creamy texture.
Can I freeze Burrata Baked Ziti?
Of course! To freeze your ziti, first let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or transfer it to a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn. You can keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat!
What should I do if my ziti comes out too dry after baking?
If you find that your ziti is dry, don’t worry! You can easily revive it. While reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to the dish, or drizzle a little olive oil over the top to bring back moisture. Make sure to cover it while reheating to lock in steam, ensuring your ziti stays creamy!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Indeed! Simply substitute the ziti with a gluten-free pasta option. There are many great alternatives available, such as brown rice or chickpea pasta. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as gluten-free pasta may require slightly different timings.
Are there any allergy considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, ensure you’re aware of the specific ingredients. This dish contains pork (pancetta and sausage), dairy (burrata and parmesan), and gluten (if using traditional pasta). You can substitute turkey sausage for a lighter option and use dairy alternatives for the cheese. Always make sure to double-check labels when using packaged ingredients!
Creamy Burrata Baked Ziti to Wow Your Dinner Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta. Cook the ziti until it's just a minute shy of al dente, then drain it and toss with a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Sauté the pancetta in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy, then remove it and let it drain on paper towels.
- Brown the sausages next! Add both sweet and hot Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking them apart with a spatula. Cook for about 6-7 minutes until browned. Add the garlic and onion, sautéing for another 2-3 minutes.
- Combine the sauce ingredients. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, oregano, basil, thyme, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer and let it simmer gently for 10 minutes.
- Incorporate fresh basil into the sauce. Add the ziti, 8 ounces of torn burrata, and 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese. Mix well and spread evenly in the dish.
- Layer on more cheese! Top the ziti with another 8 ounces of torn burrata and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until edges are golden and cheese is bubbly. Broil for 2 minutes for extra bubbly goodness if desired. Let cool for 10 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Serve warm with remaining 8 ounces of torn burrata, extra parmesan, and a drizzle of olive oil.