Skillet Pasta with Spinach and Burrata Recipe
Introduction
Skillet Pasta with Spinach and Burrata is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender pasta, fresh spinach, and creamy burrata cheese. This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal that feels a bit special.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 2 cloves Garlic
- 2 cups Spinach Leaves
- 4 cups Pasta
- 2 cups Tomato Sauce
- 1/2 cup Burrata Cheese
- 12 Fresh Basil Leaves
- Parmesan Cheese, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook your pasta in boiling salted water until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Step 3: Heat a large cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan over medium heat. Add olive oil and garlic, sautéing the garlic until it turns golden, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Step 4: Add the cooked pasta, tomato sauce, and spinach leaves to the skillet. Stir well until the spinach is wilted and everything is evenly combined.
- Step 5: Top the pasta mixture with burrata cheese and fresh basil leaves.
- Step 6: Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the burrata starts to bubble and melt slightly.
- Step 7: Serve warm, adding extra tomato sauce and Parmesan cheese to taste. A sprinkle of red chili flakes is a great optional touch for some heat.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture, but baby kale or arugula can also be great substitutes.
- Try adding sautéed mushrooms or roasted cherry tomatoes for extra depth.
- Swap burrata with fresh mozzarella if you prefer a milder cheese.
- For a vegan version, use a plant-based cheese and skip the Parmesan.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or tomato sauce to keep the pasta moist. Burrata is best enjoyed fresh, so add any extra cheese just before serving again.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli works well and holds the sauce nicely.
What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?
After cooking the pasta and sauce on the stove, you can transfer everything to a baking dish before adding burrata and placing it in the oven.
Print
Skillet Pasta with Spinach and Burrata Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Skillet Pasta with Spinach and Burrata is a comforting and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines al dente pasta with a rich tomato sauce, fresh spinach, and creamy burrata cheese. Cooked on the stovetop then baked briefly to melt the cheese and blend flavors, it makes for a perfect weeknight dinner or cozy meal. Fresh basil and optional Parmesan add vibrant aroma and depth.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 4 cups Pasta
- 2 cups Tomato Sauce
- 2 cups Spinach Leaves
Flavoring and Toppings
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 2 cloves Garlic
- 1/2 cup Burrata Cheese
- 12 Fresh Basil Leaves
- Parmesan Cheese, to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil salted water and cook 4 cups of pasta until al dente as per package instructions. Drain well and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (180°C) to prepare for baking later.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large cast-iron or oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of garlic and sauté until golden, about 2 to 3 minutes, releasing aroma and flavor.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta, 2 cups of tomato sauce, and 2 cups of spinach leaves to the skillet. Stir everything together until the spinach wilts and the mixture is well combined.
- Add Burrata and Basil: Arrange 1/2 cup burrata cheese atop the pasta mixture, followed by 12 fresh basil leaves scattered evenly over the top.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the burrata cheese starts to bubble and melt beautifully.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve warm. Optionally, top with additional tomato sauce, grated Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of red chili flakes for extra flavor.
Notes
- Use a large cast-iron or any oven-safe skillet to seamlessly transfer from stovetop to oven.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente texture holds well during baking.
- Fresh basil leaves add a fragrant touch, but can be substituted with dried basil if needed.
- Burrata can be replaced by fresh mozzarella if not available, but burrata provides creamier texture.
- For a spicier kick, add red chili flakes either before baking or while serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: skillet pasta, spinach pasta, burrata cheese, Italian pasta recipe, baked pasta, vegetarian pasta
