Hello, I’m Sam.
Since retiring, I’ve come to appreciate meals that feel comforting without being complicated. This recipe is one of my reliable go-to dishes, easy steps, warm flavors, and nothing fussy. If you enjoy simple, everyday cooking, this one will fit right into your routine. For more cozy comfort, try my Cheesy Chicken Potato Casserole or Creamy Cheddar Potato Chowder, both share the same calm warmth that makes dinner at home feel easy and steady.
Why This Recipe Works
- Simple, quick preparation
- Golden, crisp texture outside; soft, creamy center
- Bold but balanced spicy tomato sauce
- Easy to serve as an appetizer or light meal
- Pantry-friendly ingredients
- Elegant yet relaxed presentation
- No complicated steps, just calm, steady cooking
Ingredient Breakdown
Burrata:
Soft and rich, burrata turns this simple dish into something comforting and memorable. When coated and fried, the creamy center stays warm while the outside becomes crisp and golden. If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella works as a mild substitute.
Breadcrumbs:
Panko breadcrumbs give the burrata its light crunch. You can use Italian-seasoned or plain and mix with a pinch of salt, pepper, and dried oregano for flavor.
Egg + Flour:
These form the coating that keeps everything crisp and sealed. The light flour layer helps the egg cling to the burrata, and the breadcrumbs stick perfectly.
Olive Oil:
A few tablespoons are enough to shallow-fry and create that delicate, even crispness.
Tomatoes:
Use canned crushed tomatoes or fresh ones. They cook down quickly and pair perfectly with garlic and chili flakes.
Garlic:
Adds a grounding, savory aroma. Fresh garlic gives a smoother flavor than powder, simple but powerful.
Red Pepper Flakes:
Bring warmth, not heat. You can adjust the amount easily to your preference.
Basil & Oregano:
Classic Italian herbs that add freshness and balance to the tomato base.
Salt & Pepper:
Essential for seasoning every layer, keep it balanced and gentle.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
- Prepare the Tomato Sauce
In a skillet, heat 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes; let them warm for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, and a pinch of oregano. Simmer on low for 10–15 minutes while you prepare the burrata. - Set Up the Breading Station
Place flour, beaten egg, and breadcrumbs in three separate shallow bowls. Gently roll each burrata ball first in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs, making sure every side is evenly coated. - Chill Before Frying
Transfer coated burrata to a plate and refrigerate for 10 minutes. This step helps the coating stay in place during frying. - Shallow Fry the Burrata
In a skillet, heat ¼ inch of olive oil over medium heat. Fry each burrata until golden brown on all sides, about 1–2 minutes per side. Handle gently with a slotted spoon or tongs. - Drain & Rest
Place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Let rest for a minute; the cheese will be perfectly soft inside. - Assemble the Plate
Spoon the spicy tomato sauce onto a plate or shallow bowl. Place the crispy burrata on top. Garnish with basil leaves, a drizzle of olive oil, and freshly cracked black pepper.
Tips & Helpful Notes
- Keep the oil warm but not too hot : around 350°F is ideal to get a crisp crust without bursting the burrata.
- Use cold burrata before breading, it helps the coating hold together.
- Adjust spice by adding more or less chili flakes depending on your taste.
- Try baking instead if you prefer a lighter option, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 10–12 minutes.
- Serve immediately : the contrast of crisp exterior and creamy inside is best enjoyed right away.
Serving Suggestions
Crispy Burrata with Spicy Tomato can stand on its own or complement a variety of simple dishes.
Try pairing it with:
- Cheesy Kielbasa Potato Skillet : a warm, one-pan dinner that balances the richness beautifully.
- Chicken Cutlets Recipe : another cozy favorite when you want a crisp, satisfying meal.
- Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Baked Potatoes : hearty yet fresh alongside the creamy burrata.
- Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe : a light, zesty partner for the spicy tomato base.
Storage & Reheating
While best served fresh, you can store leftover tomato sauce for up to 4 days. The burrata is best fried just before serving, but you can coat and chill it up to a few hours ahead. Reheat the sauce gently in a pan and fry burrata right before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I air fry the burrata?
Yes. Spray lightly with olive oil and air fry at 375°F for 6–8 minutes until golden and crisp.
2. What if my burrata bursts?
That can happen if the oil is too hot or the coating too thin. Double-coating (egg and breadcrumb twice) prevents this.
3. Can I use tomato paste instead of sauce?
Yes, just thin it with a bit of water or broth. Add herbs and garlic to round out the flavor.
4. How spicy is this dish?
It’s a mild warmth, enough to balance the creamy burrata. You can always tone it down or skip chili flakes.
Crispy Burrata with Spicy Tomato – Simple, Warm, and Comforting
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy golden burrata served over spicy garlic tomato sauce, creamy inside, simple to make, and perfect for a cozy evening.
Ingredients
2 burrata balls
1/2 cup flour
1 egg, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cups crushed tomatoes
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
1 tsp dried oregano
Fresh basil leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil, garlic, and red pepper flakes in a pan.
2. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper; simmer 10–15 minutes.
3. Set up flour, egg, and breadcrumbs in three bowls.
4. Coat burrata in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs.
5. Chill 10 minutes.
6. Fry burrata in olive oil until golden, about 2 minutes per side.
7. Place over spicy tomato sauce and garnish with basil.
Notes
Use cold burrata before breading.
Double coat for extra crispiness.
Adjust chili flakes to taste.
Serve immediately for best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Fried
- Cuisine: Italian
Conclusion
Crispy Burrata with Spicy Tomato is a gentle balance of textures, soft, creamy, crisp, and warm. It feels elegant but takes almost no effort. The spicy tomato base grounds the richness, and every bite is familiar yet special. It’s the kind of dish that fits into any slow evening, a little golden comfort on the plate.