There is nothing quite like sitting down to a warm, hearty bowl of pasta that sings with rich flavors and comfort. That’s exactly what you get with Grandma’s Meat Sauce Pasta with Burrata Recipe, a treasured dish packed with savory meat sauce and topped with the creamy luxury of burrata cheese. Every bite is a nostalgic hug from the heart of Italian-American cooking, blending perfectly simmered tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and a luscious finish that simply melts in your mouth. Whether you want to impress guests or treat yourself on a cozy night, this recipe promises joy and satisfaction in every forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is a shining example of how simple, quality ingredients come together to create something truly unforgettable. Each component adds its own sparkle—whether it’s the aromatic onion and garlic base, the hearty blend of beef and sausage, or the fresh herbs that brighten the sauce. This thoughtful harmony of ingredients builds a flavorful foundation that makes the dish shine.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: The perfect fat for sautéing that brings a gentle fruitiness to the base.
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped: Provides sweetness and depth when caramelized.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds that essential punch of savory aroma and taste.
- 1 pound ground beef: The heart of the sauce, offering rich, meaty flavor.
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage, casings removed: Brings seasoning and texture for extra complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A subtle kick for those who like a touch of heat.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the acidity.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground provides a mild spice and earthiness.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor for richness.
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes: The saucy base that’s fresh and full-bodied.
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce: Smooth and slightly sweet, it rounds out the sauce texture.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Classic Italian herb that adds warmth.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Brings a fresh, slightly sweet herbal note.
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar: Cuts the acidity and balances the tomatoes beautifully.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish): Brings bright color and a fresh finish.
- 1 pound pasta (such as rigatoni or spaghetti): The canvas that carries the luscious sauce.
- 8 ounces burrata cheese (2–3 balls): The creamy crown jewel that melts into the pasta with indulgence.
- Freshly grated Parmesan for serving: An optional salty, nutty sprinkle to finish.
How to Make Grandma’s Meat Sauce Pasta with Burrata Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Brown the Meat
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add your finely chopped onion. Let the onion cook gently for 4–5 minutes until it turns soft and translucent—that sweetness is the building block of your sauce. Toss in the minced garlic and let it sizzle for just 30 seconds to release its vibrant aroma without burning. Next, introduce the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking them apart with your spoon as they brown over about 6–8 minutes. This browning step is where deep, savory flavor develops, laying an irresistible foundation. If there’s extra fat pooling, drain it off for a balanced sauce.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
Season your browned meat mixture with red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir in tomato paste and cook it for a minute; this caramelizes the paste and intensifies the richness. Then add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, and a pinch of sugar. Bring this medley to a simmer to marry the flavors. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring now and then as the sauce thickens and deepens in flavor. When just a few minutes remain, stir in fresh parsley for a lovely green burst and herbaceous freshness that brightens everything.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta and Combine
While your sauce simmers, boil a large pot of salted water and cook your chosen pasta until it’s perfectly al dente. Drain well and either return the pasta to the pot or place it in a large serving bowl. Pour your lovingly crafted meat sauce over the pasta and toss everything together so each strand or tube is luxuriously coated. This moment is where the magic of Grandma’s Meat Sauce Pasta with Burrata Recipe truly shines—every bite sings of homemade goodness.
Step 4: Add the Burrata and Serve
Now for the pièce de résistance: nestle generous spoonfuls or halved balls of burrata cheese over the pasta. Let the creamy cheese soften and slightly melt into the warmth, creating irresistible pockets of silky delight. Sprinkle with additional parsley and a dusting of freshly grated Parmesan if you like, adding even more layers of flavor and texture. Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect harmony of ingredients.
How to Serve Grandma’s Meat Sauce Pasta with Burrata Recipe
Garnishes
A fresh sprinkle of chopped parsley brightens the plate with a pop of green and lively flavor, and a handful of freshly grated Parmesan adds savory depth and a hint of nuttiness. If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil or a few cracks of black pepper on top can elevate the experience even more.
Side Dishes
A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the meat sauce perfectly, cutting through the creaminess of the burrata. Garlic bread or toasted focaccia is another fantastic choice to soak up every last bit of that luscious sauce. Roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables bring freshness and balance to the plate, making your meal satisfyingly complete.
Creative Ways to Present
For a beautiful family-style presentation, serve the pasta in a large rustic bowl with whole burrata balls nestled on top. You can also plate individual servings with small burrata portions and a garnish of microgreens or edible flowers for flair. Another lovely idea is layering the pasta and sauce in clear glass bowls, so the vibrant reds and creamy whites contrast beautifully, perfect for a dinner party setting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Grandma’s Meat Sauce Pasta with Burrata Recipe, store the meat sauce separately from the pasta to keep both fresh. The sauce will stay flavorful in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ready to be reheated and enjoyed again.
Freezing
The meat sauce freezes beautifully, making it perfect for batch cooking. Cool the sauce completely and place it in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge and have a quick meal base ready to go.
Reheating
Reheat the sauce gently in a saucepan over low heat to preserve all those wonderful flavors. Heat the pasta separately in a microwave or briefly toss it in boiling water. Burrata is best added fresh, so skip reheating it and instead serve with fresh burrata to maintain its creamy texture and allure.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef and sausage?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative, though you may want to add a bit of extra seasoning to keep the sauce flavorful. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious in this recipe.
What kind of pasta pairs best with this meat sauce?
Pasta shapes like rigatoni or spaghetti are classic and wonderful because they hold the thick sauce beautifully. Tube shapes catch the meat bits perfectly, while long pasta delivers a comforting, twirly experience.
Is burrata necessary, or can I substitute something else?
Burrata adds a uniquely creamy and fresh richness that truly elevates the dish. If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella or a dollop of ricotta can be used, but it won’t be quite the same indulgent finish.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, swap the meat and sausage for hearty mushrooms or plant-based meat alternatives. The sauce base and seasonings remain delicious, and the burrata keeps that luscious creaminess.
How spicy is the sauce with the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes only add a subtle warmth and can be easily omitted if you prefer a milder sauce. It’s there to add a slight kick for those who enjoy a little heat.
Final Thoughts
Grandma’s Meat Sauce Pasta with Burrata Recipe is a dish that embodies comfort, care, and timeless flavor. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep in your repertoire for busy weeknights or special dinners with friends and family. The marriage of hearty meat sauce and creamy burrata creates an unforgettable experience that feels both elegant and nourishing. I truly hope you give it a try—you might just find your new favorite pasta!
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Grandma’s Meat Sauce Pasta with Burrata Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Grandma’s Meat Sauce Pasta with Burrata is a hearty Italian-American main course featuring a rich, savory meat sauce made from ground beef and Italian sausage simmered with tomatoes and herbs. Served over pasta and topped with creamy burrata cheese and freshly grated Parmesan, this comforting dish offers a perfect balance of tender meat, tangy tomato flavors, and luxurious cheese.
Ingredients
Meat Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)
Pasta and Topping
- 1 pound pasta (such as rigatoni or spaghetti)
- 8 ounces burrata cheese (2–3 balls)
- Freshly grated Parmesan for serving
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Brown the Meat: Add ground beef and Italian sausage to the pan, breaking up the meat with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Season and Build Sauce: Season the meat mixture with red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, and sugar. Stir to combine.
- Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Let cook uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to thicken and develop flavors. Stir in fresh parsley during the last 5 minutes of simmering.
- Cook the Pasta: While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot or transfer to a large serving bowl.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Pour the meat sauce over the pasta and toss gently to combine, ensuring the noodles are well coated.
- Serve with Burrata and Garnish: Portion the pasta into bowls and top each with a ball or portion of burrata cheese, allowing it to melt slightly into the warm pasta. Garnish with additional chopped parsley and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.
Notes
- You can make the meat sauce ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use.
- Substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- Burrata cheese adds a creamy, rich finish and should not be omitted if possible.
