Fried burrata with spicy vodka sauce is a showstopper! The crispy golden crust of the burrata gives way to its luscious, creamy center. Paired with a rich, flavorful vodka sauce that has just the right amount of spice, this dish will impress anyone at your table.
This dish can easily be made a part of any cozy evening or served as an indulgent appetizer at your next gathering. The spicy vodka sauce adds a layer of sophistication while still remaining approachable, making it a perfect choice for both casual meals and elegant dinners.
Full Recipe:
- 2 large burrata balls
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup vodka
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large pan over medium heat.
- Coat the burrata balls in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and then coat in breadcrumbs.
- Fry the burrata in the pan for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté garlic and red pepper flakes until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add tomato sauce, vodka, and oregano. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to reduce the sauce slightly.
- Return the fried burrata to the pan and gently toss to coat in the spicy vodka sauce.
- Garnish with fresh basil and season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 500 kcal | Servings: 2 servings
Fried Burrata with Spicy Vodka-Style Sauce: A Perfectly Crispy Indulgence
Fried burrata is an absolute treat that’s both indulgent and incredibly delicious. Its crispy, golden exterior contrasts beautifully with the soft, creamy interior, creating a perfect bite every time. This dish is made even more irresistible by the rich and spicy vodka-style sauce that adds depth and flavor. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests or enjoy a comforting meal at home, this fried burrata with spicy vodka sauce will certainly become a new favorite. Serve it with some crusty bread to soak up every last bit of the sauce, and you’ll be hooked from the very first bite.
The Sauce: A Flavorful, Creamy Kick
The spicy vodka-style sauce is what really elevates this dish. While it’s certainly a standout, it’s also flexible and can be swapped out for a variety of sauces. If you’re not a fan of vodka-style sauce, marinara, Alfredo, or even pesto would work just as well. Each of these sauces brings a unique twist to the dish, making it easy to personalize to your tastes.
For the vodka-style sauce, start by sautéing garlic in olive oil. This step is crucial for infusing the oil with the garlic’s rich flavor without burning it. Tomato paste is then added to the mix, cooking until it deepens in color and develops a slightly caramelized taste. The creamy texture comes from heavy cream, and red pepper flakes and dried basil provide a gentle heat and an herby undertone. A pinch of salt and pepper bring everything together, and fresh parmesan melts into the sauce for that cheesy richness we all love. A bit of butter at the end adds a glossy finish, making the sauce extra luxurious.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it a little longer to concentrate the flavors. For a thinner consistency, simply add a splash of water or extra cream. It’s important to serve the sauce warm, so reheat it just before serving to ensure everything tastes fresh and indulgent.
The Breading Station: Key to Crispy Perfection
To make breaded burrata, the right preparation is essential to get that perfect crispy crust. One of the most important steps is drying the burrata. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness, so be sure to pat the burrata dry with a paper towel before breading it. This step will help the coating stick properly and ensure the cheese stays intact while frying. Burrata can be delicate, so handle it gently to avoid tearing the cheese.
To bread the burrata, set up three shallow bowls: one with flour seasoned with salt and pepper, another with whisked eggs, and the third with a mixture of Panko breadcrumbs, parmesan, and Italian seasoning. For a crispier texture, double-dip the burrata by repeating the egg and Panko steps. Press the breadcrumbs into the cheese to make sure they adhere properly. This extra layer of breadcrumbs helps ensure that the exterior stays perfectly crisp when fried.
Frying Tips: Achieving the Perfect Golden Brown
The key to getting that perfect golden brown color and crispy exterior is frying the burrata at the right temperature. Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable or canola oil. Heat the oil to around 350°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a small piece of breadcrumb into the pan—if it sizzles and floats, the oil is ready.
Fry the breaded burrata carefully, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. If you’re cooking more than one, it’s best to fry them in batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even frying. The burrata only needs to fry for a couple of minutes until it turns golden brown and crispy. Once fried, place the burrata on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Sprinkling a little extra parmesan on top while it’s still hot will give it that extra burst of flavor.
How to Serve Fried Burrata with Spicy Vodka-Style Sauce
When it’s time to serve, spoon the warm vodka-style sauce onto a serving plate, creating a luxurious base for the fried burrata to sit on. Gently place the crispy burrata on top of the sauce. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added freshness. The herbs will cut through the richness of the dish and add a delightful contrast to the creamy and crispy components.
To truly enjoy this dish, serve it with some crusty bread or toasted baguette slices on the side. The bread acts as the perfect vehicle for soaking up the sauce and cheese. If you’re serving this as an appetizer, it’s sure to impress your guests. However, it can easily be turned into the main course, offering a delicious, cheesy, and comforting meal that everyone will love.
Tips and Variations: Customize Your Dish
One of the best parts of this recipe is its versatility. While the vodka-style sauce is rich and flavorful, you can easily switch it out depending on your preference. Marinara sauce offers a tangy contrast to the creamy burrata, while Alfredo sauce creates a richer, more decadent experience. If you prefer something brighter, a pesto sauce would be a wonderful choice, adding a fresh herbaceous flavor to the dish. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your sauce combinations—each one brings a new dimension to the dish.
If you’re short on time, you can prepare the burrata ahead of time by breading the rounds and storing them in the fridge for a few hours. Then, when you’re ready to serve, just fry them fresh to enjoy the crispy texture at its best.
Adding a Twist: Flavor Variations for the Bread Crumbs
If you’re looking to add an extra dimension to the breading, try mixing in some smoked paprika or garlic powder into the Panko mixture. This will infuse the coating with additional flavor, giving the dish a smoky or garlicky kick. For those who like an extra heat factor, crushed red pepper flakes in the breading will add a subtle spice to the crispy exterior.
Leftover Sauce: Versatile and Flavorful
If you happen to have leftover vodka sauce, don’t let it go to waste. It’s absolutely delicious tossed with pasta or drizzled over roasted vegetables. You could even use it as a dip for fries or chicken tenders. Store the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge, and it will last for a few days, ready to be used for other meals.
Air-Frying Option: A Lighter Alternative
For those who want to enjoy the crispy goodness of fried burrata without deep frying, you can use an air fryer instead. While the texture won’t be exactly the same as deep frying, the air fryer will still create a golden and crispy crust. Air-frying is a lighter alternative that still delivers on taste, so it’s perfect for those who want to cut back on oil.
Conclusion: A Decadent Dish for Any Occasion
Fried burrata with spicy vodka-style sauce is a dish that will have everyone talking. Its crispy exterior and creamy interior are a match made in heaven, and the bold, flavorful sauce adds just the right kick. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or the main event, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. The crispy cheese, luscious sauce, and optional breading variations make it a dish you can customize to your liking. And with so many ways to serve and enjoy it, you’ll never get bored of this indulgent treat. Try it today and enjoy one of the most decadent dishes you’ll ever have the pleasure of making!