Burrata pizza is a gourmet twist on traditional pizza that features the creamy, luxurious flavor of burrata cheese. Originating from Italy, burrata is a fresh cheese made from mozzarella and cream. When added to pizza, it creates a rich and indulgent experience that elevates the dish. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to make burrata pizza at home, from selecting ingredients and preparing the dough to baking techniques and flavor combinations. Whether you’re a seasoned pizza maker or a novice, this article will help you achieve the perfect burrata pizza.
See Also: How to Make Calzones with Pillsbury Pizza Dough
Ingredients and Equipment
Ingredients
For the Dough
Flour: Use high-quality all-purpose flour or bread flour. The flour should be unbleached for the best texture.
Yeast: Active dry yeast or instant yeast can be used. Make sure the yeast is fresh for the best results.
Water: Use lukewarm water to activate the yeast. The temperature should be around 100-110°F (37-43°C).
Salt: Sea salt or kosher salt enhances the flavor of the dough.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness and improves the dough’s texture.
Sugar: A small amount of sugar helps to activate the yeast.
For the Sauce
Tomato Sauce: Use high-quality canned or homemade tomato sauce. San Marzano tomatoes are a great choice.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a robust flavor.
Olive Oil: Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
Herbs: Basil, oregano, and thyme are commonly used. Fresh herbs are preferred for a more vibrant flavor.
Salt and Pepper: To taste.
For the Toppings
Burrata Cheese: Burrata is a fresh cheese with a creamy center. It should be added to the pizza just before serving to maintain its creamy texture.
Mozzarella Cheese: Use fresh mozzarella for its meltability and flavor.
Prosciutto: Thinly sliced prosciutto adds a savory and slightly sweet contrast to the creaminess of the burrata.
Cherry Tomatoes: Roasted cherry tomatoes add sweetness and acidity.
Arugula: Fresh arugula adds a peppery bite and complements the rich flavors.
Olive Oil: For drizzling on top of the pizza before serving.
Equipment
Pizza Stone or Baking Steel: A pizza stone or baking steel helps achieve a crispy crust. Preheat it in your oven or grill.
Pizza Peel: A pizza peel is used to transfer the pizza in and out of the oven.
Rolling Pin: For rolling out the dough.
Oven Thermometer: Ensures that your oven is at the correct temperature.
Mixing Bowls and Measuring Cups: For preparing the dough and sauce.
Preparing the Dough
Mixing and Kneading
Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve 1 teaspoon of sugar in 1 cup of lukewarm water. Sprinkle 2 teaspoons of yeast over the water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until frothy.
Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 ½ cups of flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Stir until the dough starts to come together.
Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Add more flour if the dough is too sticky.
Let It Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Shaping the Dough
Preheat the Oven: Place a pizza stone or baking steel in the oven and preheat to 475-500°F (245-260°C).
Roll Out the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Use a rolling pin to roll the dough into your desired shape and thickness, usually about ¼ inch thick.
Transfer to Peel: Place the rolled-out dough on a pizza peel dusted with flour or cornmeal to prevent sticking.
Preparing the Sauce
Sauté Garlic: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
Add Tomato Sauce: Stir in 1 cup of tomato sauce and bring to a simmer. Season with 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and salt and pepper to taste.
Simmer: Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning as needed and set aside to cool.
Assembling the Pizza
Spread the Sauce: Using the back of a spoon, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the prepared dough, leaving a border around the edges for the crust.
Add Cheese: Tear or slice fresh mozzarella and distribute it evenly over the sauce.
Pre-Bake the Pizza: Transfer the assembled pizza to the preheated pizza stone or baking steel. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Adding the Burrata
Prepare the Burrata: Gently remove the burrata from its packaging and drain any excess liquid. Slice or tear the burrata into chunks.
Top the Pizza: After the pizza has baked, remove it from the oven. Gently place the burrata chunks on top of the hot pizza.
Add Additional Toppings: Arrange thin slices of prosciutto and roasted cherry tomatoes on the pizza. Drizzle with a little olive oil if desired.
Final Touches
Garnish with Arugula: Scatter fresh arugula over the pizza. The arugula adds a peppery flavor and freshness.
Season: Sprinkle with a little sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Serve: Slice the pizza and serve immediately while the burrata is still creamy and the crust is crispy.
Variations and Flavor Combinations
Fig and Prosciutto Burrata Pizza
Ingredients: Add sliced fresh figs or fig jam, along with prosciutto and burrata.
Instructions: Assemble the pizza as described, and top with sliced figs or dollops of fig jam before baking. Add burrata and prosciutto after baking.
Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomato Burrata Pizza
Ingredients: Use basil pesto as the base sauce and add sun-dried tomatoes.
Instructions: Spread pesto over the dough, top with mozzarella, and bake. Add burrata and sun-dried tomatoes after baking.
Truffle Oil Burrata Pizza
Ingredients: Drizzle with truffle oil for an extra layer of flavor.
Instructions: Bake the pizza with mozzarella and burrata. Drizzle truffle oil over the pizza just before serving.
Troubleshooting Tips
Dough Too Sticky: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour while kneading. If it’s too dry, add a small amount of water.
Cheese Not Melting: Ensure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature and the pizza stone or baking steel is hot.
Burnt Crust: If the crust is burning before the toppings are cooked, lower the oven temperature slightly and bake the pizza for a longer time.
Conclusion
Making burrata pizza is a delightful culinary adventure that brings the creamy richness of burrata cheese into a classic pizza format. By following this guide, you can create a gourmet pizza that showcases the luxurious texture and flavor of burrata. From preparing the dough and sauce to adding the final touches, each step contributes to a delicious and impressive pizza. Experiment with different toppings and variations to make the recipe your own, and enjoy the process of creating a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen.