Bruschetta is one of those timeless dishes that bridges the gap between rustic charm and refined sophistication. Add burrata—a rich, creamy cheese with a delicate shell—and you elevate this already-beloved Italian appetizer into something unforgettable. Burrata Bruschetta with Tomato & Basil brings together the best of Italian summer flavors: juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, aromatic olive oil, crisp toasted bread, and that luscious, creamy burrata cheese that oozes luxury with every bite.
This dish is incredibly versatile: serve it at a dinner party to impress guests, enjoy it as a light lunch, or offer it at a casual get-together. It’s quick to prepare, yet beautiful on the plate and bursting with flavor.
A Brief History of Bruschetta
Bruschetta originated in Italy, specifically in central regions like Lazio and Tuscany. The term comes from the Roman dialect verb “bruscare”, meaning “to toast” or “to roast over coals.” Traditionally, bruschetta was a way for olive oil producers to showcase their freshly pressed oil—served simply with toasted bread, rubbed with garlic, and drizzled with oil.
Today, bruschetta has evolved beyond this humble origin. While the classic tomato-basil version remains iconic, modern variations incorporate everything from figs and prosciutto to avocado and smoked salmon. Burrata, however, takes it to another level with its indulgent texture and creamy flavor.
Why Burrata?
Burrata is mozzarella’s more luxurious cousin. While it has a similar outer shell, inside it contains a mixture of cream and shredded mozzarella curds known as stracciatella. This makes burrata far richer and more flavorful, perfect for balancing the acidity of fresh tomatoes and the herbaceous note of basil.
Because burrata is delicate, it should be served fresh and never overcooked. When paired with warm toasted bread and a vibrant tomato topping, the cheese softens just enough to create an irresistible contrast in textures and temperatures.
Ingredients Breakdown (US Cups & Measurements)
Here’s what you’ll need to make this elegant appetizer:
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1 French baguette or ciabatta, sliced (about 16 slices)
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1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
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8 oz burrata cheese
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2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (plus extra for brushing bread)
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1 garlic clove, peeled
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¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn
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½ teaspoon sea salt
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon balsamic glaze (optional)
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½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for seasoning tomatoes)
How to Make Burrata Bruschetta: Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prep the Bread
Start with a fresh baguette or ciabatta. Slice it on the bias into ½-inch thick pieces. This allows for a broader surface to hold your toppings.
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Arrange bread slices on a baking sheet in a single layer.
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Brush each slice lightly with olive oil on one side.
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Toast for about 6–8 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is still a little soft.
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Remove from the oven and immediately rub the surface with a peeled garlic clove.
Pro Tip: Rubbing garlic on the warm bread adds flavor without being overpowering.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Topping
Fresh tomatoes are key. Cherry or grape tomatoes are ideal because of their sweetness and low moisture content.
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In a medium bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
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Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.
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Gently toss to coat. Let the mixture sit for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
This brief marination step makes a huge difference in bringing out the natural juices and enhancing the overall flavor.
Step 3: Slice the Burrata
Burrata is delicate, so handle it with care.
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Remove the burrata from its packaging and gently blot it dry with a paper towel.
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Use a sharp knife or spoon to break the ball into small chunks or tear it by hand.
You don’t want to spread the burrata like butter; rather, you want dollops of it nestled among the tomatoes.
Step 4: Assemble the Bruschetta
Now for the fun part: building the bruschetta.
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Place a spoonful of the tomato mixture on each toasted bread slice.
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Add a piece of burrata on top of the tomatoes.
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Sprinkle chopped basil generously over the top.
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Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.
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Serve immediately while the bread is still crisp and the cheese is creamy.
Prep Time & Nutritional Info
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 10 minutes
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Total Time: 25 minutes
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Calories: ~180–220 kcal per serving (2 slices)
Serving Suggestions
Burrata bruschetta is versatile enough to be:
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A Fancy Appetizer: Serve before pasta or grilled meats.
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A Light Lunch: Pair with a glass of crisp white wine.
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A Party Finger Food: Assemble mini versions for passed hors d’oeuvres.
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A Romantic Picnic Dish: Easy to pack and elegant to eat under the sun.
Pairing Ideas
Wine:
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White: Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Vermentino
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Rosé: A dry rosé balances the creaminess of burrata
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Red: A light-bodied red like Chianti or Lambrusco
Main Course Pairings:
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Grilled steak or chicken
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Creamy risotto
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Pasta primavera
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Eggplant Parmesan
Variations & Add-ons
Want to switch it up? Try these additions or substitutions:
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Prosciutto: Adds a salty, meaty bite
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Roasted red peppers: Extra smoky sweetness
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Avocado slices: Creamy and trendy
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Arugula: Adds peppery bitterness to balance burrata
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Pesto drizzle: For a herbal punch
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Toasted pine nuts: Crunch and depth
Make-Ahead Tips
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Tomato Mixture: Can be made a few hours in advance. Keep chilled and stir before using.
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Bread: Toasted slices can be made 1–2 hours before serving. Store uncovered to prevent sogginess.
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Assembly: Best done just before serving to preserve the bread’s crispness and the cheese’s freshness.
Hosting Tips
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Assemble a bruschetta bar with different toppings and let guests build their own.
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Serve on a wooden board with sprigs of basil for a rustic presentation.
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Offer small plates and cocktail napkins for easier handling.
Why Everyone Loves This Dish
Burrata Bruschetta is more than just bread and cheese—it’s a sensory experience. The crispiness of toasted bread, the juiciness of tomatoes, the silkiness of burrata, and the aromatic basil combine into a dish that feels indulgent yet light. It’s photogenic, crowd-pleasing, and refreshingly simple to prepare.
This dish encapsulates what’s best about Italian cuisine: using high-quality ingredients and letting them shine without overcomplicating the preparation. When every component is fresh and thoughtfully assembled, the result is pure culinary magic.
Final Thoughts
Burrata Bruschetta with Tomato & Basil is the kind of recipe that makes you fall in love with cooking again. It’s quick, satisfying, and sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who tastes it. Whether you’re cooking for one or hosting a gathering, this dish brings the flavors of an Italian summer right to your table.