This burrata caprese is so simple, similar to a typical caprese salad, and extra special with burrata in place of the fresh mozzarella!

If you love a typical caprese salad like us, then this variation will be one of your favorites to add into your summer recipe rotation. While a classic caprese salad uses fresh mozzarella, this recipe uses burrata instead, making it a fun spin on the usual combination. With sliced heirloom tomatoes, lots of basil, the burrata (of course!), and some olive oil and balsamic glaze, this simple recipe is truly so delicious.
While a classic caprese often has pieces of sliced fresh mozzarella layered between the tomatoes, this recipe has burrata broken over the middle of the tomatoes. It turns out so pretty and the burrata is perfect for breaking up over the tomatoes so that there is some in each bite. With a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic glaze, this easy dish looks so impressive and would be so great shared among family and friends. If you're looking for an end of summer recipe for those big garden tomatoes, this is the one!
If you're in the mood for another shareable recipe, be sure to try our Whipped Ricotta Dip with Honey, or if you're in the mood for another tomato recipe, you need to try out our Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake!
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Why You'll Love this Burrata Caprese
It's so simple but delicious and pretty! Sometimes the best recipes aren't overly complicated, and this is a prime example! It's super easy but looks so perfect when plated.
It's a fun twist on a classic. If you love a caprese salad but are looking for a different variation, this version with burrata will be your new favorite.
The best recipe for using up lots of tomatoes. This recipe is great if you have a lot of large tomatoes on hand and aren't sure what to use them for. Once sliced up they are the star of this recipe that's great for sharing and entertaining!
Ingredients for the Burrata Caprese
As mentioned, this burrata caprese is very simple to make, and also includes the simplest list of ingredients. Because it only has a handful of ingredients, we think it's important to try and use the best quality ingredients you can find!
- Tomatoes - The star of this recipe! I recommend 4-5 medium or large tomatoes depending on how many people will be sharing this caprese. You can use any kind of medium or large ripe tomato, and I especially like including some heirlooms if it's the right season.
- Kosher salt - Some kosher salt is used to draw out some of the moisture from the tomatoes to make sure they're not overly watery. It also helps enhance their flavor as well as the flavor of the burrata.
- Burrata - Key in this burrata caprese! Unlike fresh mozzarella, you can just break the burrata ball over the middle of the plated tomatoes. When serving, a fork works great for tearing some of the burrata into each bite.
- Black pepper - Adds a little extra flavor to the tomatoes and burrata. I like to use a good amount, but it's totally up to your preference.
- Extra-virgin olive oil - So delicious over both the tomatoes and burrata. It also helps to mellow out the acidity from the tomatoes while also adding additional flavor. I like to drizzle it from the bottle to evenly spread it over the ingredients.
- Balsamic glaze - Adds the most delicious sweetness and flavor to pair perfectly with the tomatoes and cheese! You could also use regular balsamic vinegar, but I find the glaze sticks better on to the ingredients and isn't as acidic.
- Basil - The best herb accompaniment to the tomatoes and burrata! So that the basil doesn't bruise, I like topping this caprese with full leaves. You could also slice the leaves first if you wanted.
See recipe card below for quantities.
Step by Step Instructions
This is an extremely easy recipe that is done from start to finish in just 10 minutes! If you need a last-minute summer appetizer, this one is perfect.
STEP 1: Prepare the tomatoes. Slice tomatoes into large, thin slices, then place them in a single layer on to a paper towel lined baking sheet, using multiple baking sheets if needed. Sprinkle with kosher salt.
STEP 2: Plate tomatoes and burrata. Layer tomato slices on a large platter. Break the burrata over the tomatoes, then top with additional kosher salt and black pepper.
STEP 3: Finish the caprese. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze, then top with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Tips for Making this Caprese Burrata
- Since there are so few ingredients, it is important to use the best quality ingredients you can find. If it's not tomato season, I would recommend looking extra hard for ripe and flavorful ones. I also think a little fresh basil is key to pair with the tomatoes and burrata.
- Make sure to slice the tomatoes fairly thin, as this makes it much easier to cut them when eating and I find the texture to be more enjoyable when they're not as thick. If you don't have a tomato knife, I find using a serrated knife also makes it much easier to cut the tomatoes without squishing them.
- Don't be shy with the kosher salt, black pepper, olive oil, and balsamic glaze. The burrata is mild, so adding these toppings on to it and the tomatoes adds so much flavor to the dish.
FAQs
What is the difference between burrata and fresh mozzarella?
Fresh mozzarella is solid throughout the middle, while burrata has an exterior that encases a creamy and thinner center called stracciatella. When broken in half, the creamy inside spreads out, making it a great topping for the middle of this caprese.
What other flavors go well with burrata if I want to make this caprese larger?
In addition to tomatoes, burrata pairs so well with peaches, cucumbers, and peppers. Adding any of those to this caprese salad would be such a delicious addition!
Can I omit the balsamic glaze?
Yes! A traditional caprese does not include balsamic glaze or vinegar, I just love adding some to add some sweetness and additional flavor.
Storing and Freezing
This burrata caprese is best served right away, and thankfully it is very quick to put together if you're in a rush! If needed, you could slice the tomatoes ahead of time and keep them in the fridge, then add the burrata and remaining ingredients once ready to serve. I don't recommend saving leftovers as the burrata does not keep well once broken.
I do not recommend freezing this recipe.
If you make this recipe we would absolutely love if you left a star review and/or comment! Also, make sure to tag us on Instagram @doublethespoonfuls so we can see what you create.
📖 Recipe
Burrata Caprese
Ingredients
- 4-5 tomatoes medium or large
- kosher salt
- 1 ball burrata
- black pepper
- olive oil extra-virgin
- balsamic glaze
- basil fresh
Instructions
- Slice tomatoes into large, thin slices, then place them in a single layer on to a paper towel lined baking sheet, using multiple baking sheets if needed. Sprinkle with kosher salt.4-5 tomatoes, kosher salt
- Layer tomato slices on a large platter. Break the burrata over the tomatoes, then top with additional kosher salt and black pepper.1 ball burrata, black pepper
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze, then top with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.olive oil, balsamic glaze, basil
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