Grandma’s Meat Sauce Pasta with Burrata

There’s something deeply comforting about a bowl of homemade pasta with rich, slow-simmered meat sauce, topped with creamy, indulgent burrata. This dish is a perfect combination of old-school tradition and modern decadence—bringing the warmth of a hearty, flavorful sauce with the luxurious, milky goodness of fresh burrata cheese. If you’ve ever had a meal that felt like a warm hug, this is it.

Growing up, my grandma would spend hours in the kitchen, slowly simmering her signature meat sauce, filling the house with an aroma that made your stomach rumble in anticipation. Every bite was packed with deep, rich flavors—tomatoes cooked down until they were sweet and robust, ground beef and veal tenderized to perfection, and herbs and garlic infusing every bite with warmth. But to elevate it even further, we finish it with burrata—a fresh, delicate cheese that melts into the pasta, creating an irresistible creamy texture that balances the rich, hearty sauce.

Why You’ll Love Grandma’s Meat Sauce Pasta with Burrata

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this dish, but let’s start with the most obvious: the sauce. Unlike store-bought versions, this meat sauce is slow-cooked, layered with deep flavors, and thick enough to cling to every strand of pasta. Every spoonful is rich with perfectly browned meat, caramelized onions, and a tomato base that’s been simmered to perfection.

Then there’s the burrata—oh, the burrata! If you’ve never had burrata before, prepare to be amazed. This fresh Italian cheese has a delicate mozzarella shell with a soft, creamy center that melts into the pasta, creating a luscious, velvety texture that makes each bite unforgettably indulgent. It’s the perfect contrast to the bold, savory flavors of the sauce, adding an element of luxury and sophistication to a classic dish.

Finally, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving a hungry family, hosting a dinner party, or making a romantic meal for two, it never fails to impress. It’s rustic, it’s elegant, it’s hearty—it’s everything you could ever want in a comforting pasta dish. Plus, it’s versatile! You can adjust the flavors, swap out ingredients, or add your own personal twist to make it uniquely yours.

Preparation Time and Yield

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 650 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 65g
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 9g

Ingredients for Grandma’s Meat Sauce Pasta with Burrata

For the Meat Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef
• ½ pound (225g) ground veal (or turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
• ½ cup beef broth (or water)
• ½ teaspoon balsamic vinegar (for depth of flavor)
• 1 bay leaf
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

For the Pasta:

• 1 pound (450g) pasta (tagliatelle, pappardelle, or spaghetti)
• 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)

For Serving:

• 2 large burrata balls
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and slightly caramelized. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

Add the ground beef and veal to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-7 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to incorporate the spices into the meat.

Step 3: Build the Flavor with Tomatoes

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to intensify the flavor. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce, stirring everything together. Add the sugar, beef broth, balsamic vinegar, bay leaf, and dried basil. Mix well, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 4: Simmer for Maximum Flavor

Reduce the heat to low, cover partially with a lid, and let the sauce simmer for at least 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to deepen, creating a thick, rich, and well-balanced sauce. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

About 15 minutes before the sauce is ready, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Remove the bay leaf from the sauce. Add the cooked pasta directly into the sauce, tossing to coat. If needed, add a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Stir in fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Step 7: Serve with Burrata and Parmesan

Divide the pasta among serving bowls. Tear the burrata balls into large chunks and place them on top of the hot pasta, allowing them to soften slightly from the heat. Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped basil. Finish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for added richness.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Serve immediately and enjoy the hearty, comforting flavors of Grandma’s meat sauce paired with the luxurious creaminess of burrata. Each bite is packed with rich, savory, and creamy goodness that will keep you coming back for more!

Ingredient Background

Each ingredient in this dish plays a crucial role in creating its rich, comforting, and perfectly balanced flavors. Let’s take a deeper dive into some of the key components:

1. Burrata – The Star of the Dish

Burrata is a fresh Italian cheese that consists of an outer shell of mozzarella and a soft, creamy inside called stracciatella. This means that when you cut into it, the luscious filling oozes out, coating the pasta in a velvety, luxurious texture. Originating from Puglia, Italy, burrata adds a beautiful contrast to the hearty meat sauce, balancing its bold flavors with delicate creaminess.

2. Crushed Tomatoes – The Base of the Sauce

A good meat sauce starts with high-quality tomatoes. Crushed tomatoes provide a thick, rich consistency that simmers down beautifully, creating a deep, well-rounded flavor. Italian San Marzano tomatoes are a great choice because they have a natural sweetness and low acidity, making them perfect for slow-cooked sauces.

3. Ground Veal and Beef – The Heart of the Sauce

Using a mix of ground beef and veal adds a depth of flavor and tenderness to the sauce. Beef provides that classic, rich, meaty taste, while veal has a softer, more delicate texture that enhances the overall mouthfeel. If veal isn’t available, you can substitute it with ground turkey or lamb for a different twist.

4. Fresh Basil and Parsley – The Finishing Touch

Herbs are essential in Italian cooking, and in this dish, basil and parsley bring brightness to the final dish. Basil adds a slightly sweet, peppery note that complements the tomato sauce, while parsley provides freshness to cut through the richness.

Technique Tips for Grandma’s Meat Sauce Pasta with Burrata

Perfecting this dish is all about patience, technique, and attention to detail. Here are some pro tips to make sure your pasta turns out flawless every time:

1. Brown the Meat Properly

One of the most important steps in building a flavorful meat sauce is browning the meat properly. Instead of stirring constantly, let the meat sit for a minute or two before stirring so it can develop a deep, caramelized crust. This adds an extra layer of umami richness.

2. Simmer the Sauce Low and Slow

The longer the sauce simmers, the more the flavors meld together. A minimum of 1.5 hours is recommended, but if you have extra time, let it cook for up to 3 hours for an even deeper flavor.

3. Salt the Pasta Water Generously

When boiling pasta, add a hefty amount of salt to the water—it should taste like the sea. This ensures the pasta is well-seasoned and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

Looking to elevate your plating and presentation? Here are a few creative ways to serve this dish:

1. Burrata-Stuffed Pasta Nests

Instead of mixing everything together, twirl the pasta into small nests on each plate using tongs. Place a small piece of burrata in the center of each nest, allowing guests to cut into it and watch the creamy center spill out beautifully.

2. Meat Sauce Pasta Bake

For a heartier version, transfer the pasta and sauce into a baking dish, top with torn burrata and Parmesan, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

3. Serve with Garlic Bread Crostini

Instead of just serving the pasta in a bowl, plate it with crispy garlic bread crostini on the side for an added crunch. The bread is perfect for scooping up extra sauce and burrata.

Freezing and Storing Grandma’s Meat Sauce Pasta with Burrata

If you have leftovers or want to make this dish ahead of time, here’s how to store and reheat it properly:

1. Storing in the Refrigerator

• Store the meat sauce separately from the pasta for the best texture.
• Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Burrata should be stored in its original liquid in an airtight container and used within 2-3 days.

2. Freezing the Meat Sauce

• The sauce freezes beautifully! Allow it to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop over low heat.

3. Freezing Fully Assembled Pasta

• While not ideal (because pasta can become mushy when thawed), you can freeze fully assembled pasta in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
• To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes.

Healthier Twist Ideas

Want to lighten up this dish without sacrificing flavor? Here are some ways to do it:

1. Swap the Pasta for a Healthier Alternative

• Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
• Try chickpea or lentil pasta for extra protein and a gluten-free option.

2. Use Leaner Meat Options

• Replace ground beef and veal with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner sauce.
• You can even use mushrooms and lentils for a vegetarian-friendly option.

3. Reduce the Cheese (But Keep the Creaminess!)

• Instead of using a full burrata ball per serving, halve the amount and stir in a few tablespoons of Greek yogurt into the sauce for a creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions for Events

This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served for different occasions:

1. Date Night Dinner

Serve this with a glass of red wine (like Chianti or Merlot) and a side of roasted vegetables for an elegant, restaurant-worthy meal.

2. Family Sunday Dinner

Make a big batch of this pasta and serve it with homemade garlic bread and a fresh Caesar salad for a warm, comforting family feast.

3. Holiday Gathering or Potluck

Prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it right before serving. Arrange a “build-your-own” pasta bar, allowing guests to choose their pasta, sauce, and toppings like extra Parmesan, basil, or chili flakes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the meat with a mix of mushrooms, lentils, and walnuts for a hearty, plant-based sauce.

2. What’s the best pasta shape to use?

Tagliatelle, pappardelle, or rigatoni work best because they hold onto the sauce beautifully.

3. How do I prevent my burrata from leaking too soon?

Only tear the burrata right before serving, so it stays creamy and fresh.

4. Can I use store-bought pasta sauce?

While homemade is best, you can use a high-quality jarred sauce and enhance it by adding garlic, herbs, and a splash of balsamic vinegar.

5. What wine pairs well with this dish?

A bold red wine like Chianti, Sangiovese, or Cabernet Sauvignon pairs perfectly with the rich flavors.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Meat Sauce Pasta with Burrata is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and deeply flavorful. From the slow-simmered meat sauce to the luxurious burrata topping, every bite is packed with warm, comforting goodness. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or serving guests at a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. So, grab your ingredients, pour yourself a glass of wine, and get ready to enjoy a restaurant-quality Italian meal right at home!

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