Margarita Burrata Pizza: A Creamy Twist on a Classic Favorite

There’s something irresistible about the humble margherita pizza – its vibrant tomato sauce, fresh basil leaves, and melty mozzarella come together in perfect harmony to celebrate simplicity at its finest. But what if this classic favorite could be elevated to a new level of creamy decadence? Enter the Margarita Burrata Pizza, a luscious twist that replaces traditional mozzarella with the rich, buttery burrata cheese. This culinary innovation doesn’t just add a velvet-smooth texture; it transforms every bite into a luscious experience that balances freshness with indulgence. Join us as we explore how this creamy upgrade is redefining a timeless pizza tradition and why it’s capturing the hearts (and taste buds) of pizza lovers everywhere.

Margarita Burrata Pizza is an irresistible combination that elevates the classic Margherita with a luscious, creamy twist. This version captivates from the very first bite, marrying the delicate balance of a light, crispy dough with the rich, oozy delight of burrata, fresh tomatoes, and fragrant basil. Inspired by traditional Italian roots and designed to impress at any table, this pizza is as visually stunning as it is flavorful. Prepare to indulge in layers of texture and taste, designed to delight both seasoned pizza lovers and adventurous home cooks alike.

Prep and Cook Time

• Preparation: 30 minutes (including dough resting)
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total: Approximately 45 minutes

Yield

Serves 2 to 3 hungry guests

Difficulty Level

Medium – Perfect for home cooks ready to elevate their pizza-making skills

Ingredients

• For the Dough:
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (one 7g packet)
• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp fine sea salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• For the Toppings:
• 1 cup fresh burrata cheese (room temperature)
• 1 ½ cups ripe cherry tomatoes, halved
• 12 fresh basil leaves
• ½ cup homemade or high-quality canned tomato sauce
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and cracked black pepper, to taste
• Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat

Instructions

1. activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it bloom for 5-7 minutes until frothy. This step ensures your dough rises perfectly for that sought-after lightness.
2. Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should sway slightly when stretched but not tear easily.
4. first rise: Lightly oil a clean bowl, place the dough inside, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to the highest temperature possible, usually 475°F-500°F (246°C-260°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it inside to heat evenly.
6. Shape the dough: Punch down the risen dough gently and turn it onto a floured surface.Stretch or roll it into a 10-12 inch circle, keeping the edges slightly thicker for a beautiful crust.
7. Layer the base: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce evenly over the dough. This helps create a juicy but not soggy surface.
8. Add fresh tomatoes and basil: Distribute the halved cherry tomatoes over the sauce, followed by a scattering of fresh basil leaves. The fresh elements will burst with flavor under the heat.
9. Bake: Transfer the pizza onto the preheated stone or baking sheet.Bake for 8-10 minutes,until the crust is golden and crispy.
10. add burrata: Immediately upon removing the pizza from the oven, tear the fresh burrata over the top. Its creamy richness will melt softly with residual heat, creating pockets of delicious creaminess.
11. Finish and serve: drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and season with salt, cracked pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Serve warm and enjoy the incredible interplay of textures and flavors.

Tips for success: Crafting the Perfect Margarita Burrata Pizza

• Dough finesse: Use bread flour if available for added gluten strength and crispiness. Let the dough rest overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor development.
• Burrata perfection: Let the burrata come to room temperature before placing on pizza for a creamier, richer experience.
• Tomatoes and basil: Choose the freshest, vibrant produce. If using larger tomatoes, slice thinly to avoid overwhelming the crust with moisture.
• Oven tips: A pizza stone or steel is key for retaining heat and mimicking traditional pizza ovens. Preheat it for at least 45 minutes.
• Make-ahead option: Dough can be prepared a day in advance and stored covered in the fridge; bring back to room temperature before shaping.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slices of this Margarita burrata Pizza alongside a crisp arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette for balance.Garnish with freshly torn basil and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to highlight every fresh bite. Pair with sparkling mineral water or a chilled Italian soda to refresh the palate. This pizza shines as a sophisticated appetizer or a cozy main course for a relaxed weekend gathering.

For more Italian-inspired recipes, explore our detailed pizza dough guide. For an expert overview on cheese varieties and their unique qualities, visit the Cheese From age website.

Q&A

Q&A: Margarita Burrata Pizza – A creamy Twist on a Classic Favorite

Q1: What makes Margarita Burrata Pizza different from the traditional Margherita pizza?
A1: While the traditional Margherita pizza is a delightful combination of tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil, the Margarita Burrata pizza introduces luscious burrata cheese as the star. Burrata, with its creamy, buttery interior, elevates the classic with a rich, velvety texture that melts beautifully over the fresh ingredients, creating a luxurious, indulgent experience.

Q2: What exactly is burrata cheese?
A2: Burrata is an Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream. The outer shell is solid mozzarella, but inside lies a soft, creamy center composed of stracciatella and cream. When cut open, burrata oozes decadently, adding a fresh, silky richness that contrasts perfectly with crispy pizza crusts and tangy tomato sauce.

Q3: How do you assemble a Margarita burrata Pizza to maximize flavor?
A3: Start with a thin, bubbly crust baked to golden perfection. Layer a bright tomato sauce made from ripe San Marzano tomatoes and season with garlic and oregano. Add torn fresh basil leaves for herbal notes. Bake with small dollops of fresh mozzarella or fior di latte. Once it’s out of the oven and still hot, crown the pizza with whole or halved burrata balls, allowing their creamy center to gently melt into the warm base for a luscious finish. A final drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil seals the deal.

Q4: Can you customize the Margarita Burrata Pizza with othre toppings?
A4: Absolutely! While the beauty of this pizza lies in its simplicity, subtle additions like cherry tomatoes, roasted garlic, or a sprinkle of chili flakes can introduce exciting layers of flavor. Though, keep toppings minimal to let the burrata shine as the creamy superstar.

Q5: What drinks pair best with Margarita Burrata Pizza?
A5: The creamy richness of burrata pairs wonderfully with crisp, acidic wines like a cold glass of Pinot Grigio or a sparkling Prosecco. For non-alcoholic options, a refreshing lemon soda or a lightly brewed herbal iced tea complements the pizza’s bright and creamy flavors beautifully.

Q6: Is Margarita Burrata Pizza a good option for special occasions?
A6: Definitely! Its elegant presentation and luxurious texture make it a crowd-pleaser and a sophisticated twist on a beloved classic.Whether for a casual dinner party or a romantic date night, this pizza brings both comfort and class to your table.

Q7: Where can I find the best Burrata to use at home?
A7: Look for burrata at specialty cheese shops, Italian markets, or high-quality grocery stores with fresh cheese counters. Fresh burrata is highly perishable, so plan to use it the same day you buy it for the best creamy experience. Always check for a firm outer shell and a soft, milky interior.

This Q&A captures the creamy innovation and timeless charm behind Margarita Burrata Pizza,inviting food lovers to indulge in a mouthwatering twist on a much-loved classic.

Closing Remarks

Whether you’re a traditionalist or an adventurous foodie, the Margarita Burrata Pizza offers a delightful marriage of familiarity and indulgence. By swapping the classic mozzarella for luscious, creamy burrata, this twist elevates a beloved favorite into an unforgettable culinary experience. Next time you crave that perfect balance of tangy tomato, fragrant basil, and rich cheese, give this luscious variation a try-you might just discover your new go-to slice. Creamy, fresh, and utterly satisfying, Margarita Burrata Pizza proves that sometimes, a little innovation is all it takes to transform the ordinary into something extraordinary.