Burrata
A fresh Italian cheese with a mozzarella shell filled with cream and fine mozzarella shreds. Its creamy center spills out when cut, making it a striking ingredient in salads and appetizers.
What Is Burrata?
Burrata is a cheese from Italy’s Puglia region made from fresh mozzarella curd. Its firm outer shell is made of mozzarella, while the inside is filled with a mixture of cream and finely torn mozzarella shreds (stracciatella).
When cut, the creamy center flows out; this visual and textural contrast sets burrata apart from other fresh cheeses. Its name comes from the Italian word meaning “buttered,” referring to its rich filling.
Burrata Nutrition Facts
Burrata is a fresh, creamy cheese that contains about 250 kcal of energy, 17.9 g of protein, and 536 mg of calcium per 100 g (approximate USDA branded-food data).
What Are the Benefits of Burrata?
Burrata is a fresh cheese that contains calcium and protein. Because of its cream filling, it is higher in fat than mozzarella, so moderate consumption is recommended.
This is general information; burrata is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment.
How to Choose Burrata
When buying burrata, choose a product sold in its own liquid, with an intact, leakproof package and a recent production date.
- Choose the most recently produced burrata possible, and remember that it has a short shelf life.
- The package should be leakproof and not swollen.
- A fluid, creamy center when cut is a sign of freshness.
How to Store Burrata
Burrata stays fresh for 2–3 days in the refrigerator in its own liquid. Since it is a fresh cheese, long-term storage is not recommended; eat it on the day of purchase or the following day.
How to Use Burrata in the Kitchen
Burrata is served uncooked at room temperature in salads, on bruschetta, and as a pizza topping.
How to Serve Burrata
Bring the burrata to room temperature, place it on a plate, and cut it through the center. Serve with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and tomato or basil if desired.
Which Recipes Use Burrata?
Common ways to use burrata include tomato-burrata salad, burrata on red pesto, bruschetta, and as a pizza topping.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is burrata good for?
It is a fresh cheese that contains calcium and protein and can be eaten in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
What is the difference between burrata and mozzarella?
Mozzarella is a firm cheese throughout, while burrata is a richer, creamier version with a mozzarella shell filled with cream and mozzarella shreds.
How do you store burrata?
It stays fresh for 2–3 days in the refrigerator in its own liquid; since it is a fresh product, it is best eaten soon.
Can burrata be cooked?
It is usually served uncooked at room temperature; heating it melts the creamy center and makes it lose its characteristic texture.
How do you cut burrata?
Cut through the center in one motion with a sharp knife. This lets the creamy filling flow out naturally and preserves the presentation.