Golden, crunchy on the outside and creamy at the center, this fried burrata over arrabbiata sauce is a flavor-packed Italian treat. The spicy, garlicky tomato sauce pairs beautifully with the rich, melty burrata. You can make it the traditional way or with an air fryer for a lighter version. It’s perfect as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a snack when you’re craving something indulgent yet simple. Ready in under an hour, this dish is comforting, crowd-pleasing, and surprisingly easy to make.

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Why You’ll Love This Fried Burrata Recipe
This recipe delivers the perfect balance of textures and flavors—crispy coating, soft creamy cheese, and a bold spicy sauce. The arrabbiata adds just enough heat to cut through the richness of the burrata, creating a satisfying bite every time. You’ll love how flexible this dish is since you can fry it in oil or use the air fryer for a lighter option without losing crunch. It’s a hit at dinner parties, family gatherings, or cozy nights in because it looks fancy but comes together quickly. You can also customize the spice level by adjusting the chili flakes, making it mild or fiery depending on your taste. Once you try it, this recipe will become your go-to showstopper appetizer.
Ingredients You’ll Need For Fried Burrata Over Arrabbiata Sauce
For the Arrabbiata Sauce
You’ll need olive oil, chili flakes, tomato paste, diced onion, garlic, and Pomi Rustica Tomatoes for a bold, thick sauce. The key is to sauté the onions until translucent and let the sauce simmer slowly to develop depth. Fresh basil brings brightness while the chili gives that signature arrabbiata kick. Adjust the chili to your liking—less for mild heat or more for a real spice lovers’ version.
For the Fried Burrata
Grab fresh burrata, flour, egg, breadcrumbs, and oil for frying or air frying. Chilling the coated burrata before frying helps it hold its shape and keeps the center perfectly gooey. You can mix herbs like oregano or parsley into your breadcrumbs for added flavor. If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella balls are a great substitute. Prep time takes about 10 minutes, while cooking takes around 45 minutes total.

How to Make Fried Burrata Over Arrabbiata Sauce (Step-by-Step Guide)
Prepare the Arrabbiata Sauce
Start by heating olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add chili flakes and cook for a few seconds until fragrant. Stir in tomato paste and diced onion, then cook until the onions soften and become translucent, about 5–6 minutes. Add the garlic and cook another minute before pouring in the tomatoes. Break up any large chunks with a spoon. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 25–35 minutes until thick and rich. Stir in fresh basil just before serving for that signature Italian aroma.
Bread and Chill the Burrata
Set up three bowls for flour, beaten egg, and breadcrumbs. Coat each burrata ball in flour, dip in egg, and then roll in breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, repeat with another egg and breadcrumb layer. Chill the coated burrata in the fridge for 30 minutes or freeze for 15 minutes. This step helps the cheese stay intact while frying.
Fry or Air Fry the Burrata
To deep fry, heat oil to 350°F. Gently lower the burrata and fry for 3–4 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels. For a lighter version, air fry at 350°F for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through. The result is a crispy outer shell with a soft, creamy interior that melts beautifully over the sauce.
Assemble and Serve
Spoon the warm arrabbiata sauce onto a plate, then place the fried burrata on top. Garnish with fresh basil and cracked pepper. Serve immediately with crusty bread to soak up every drop of the sauce. It’s a rustic, comforting dish that feels restaurant-worthy but is so easy to make at home.
Pro Tips for Perfect Fried Burrata
Use very cold burrata to prevent bursting during frying. Keep your oil temperature consistent at 350°F for an even, golden crust. If using an air fryer, avoid overcrowding to ensure even browning. Stainless steel pans are best for sauce because they distribute heat evenly. Add herbs like thyme or parsley to your breadcrumbs for more flavor. You can also reduce chili flakes in the sauce if you prefer mild heat. Always serve right after frying for the best texture—crispy outside and molten inside.
Serving Ideas and Pairings
This fried burrata pairs perfectly with warm focaccia or toasted baguette. It’s ideal as an appetizer before pasta night or served alongside other small plates in a tapas-style spread. For drinks, try a crisp Pinot Grigio or a light Italian red like Chianti. If you love air fryer recipes, serve this next to crispy air fryer chicken wings or air fryer zucchini fries for the perfect mix of indulgent bites.

Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, place the burrata in the air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until crisp again. Avoid microwaving since it softens the coating and ruins the texture. The sauce can be reheated on the stove or in the microwave separately.
Common Questions About Fried Burrata
What sauce goes well with burrata cheese?
Arrabbiata sauce complements burrata perfectly with its spicy, tangy flavor.
Can I fry burrata cheese?
Yes, just coat it in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, then fry or air fry until golden.
What is arrabbiata sauce made of?
It’s a spicy Italian tomato sauce made from olive oil, chili flakes, garlic, and tomatoes.
Can I put burrata in pasta sauce?
Yes, but add it at the end to keep it creamy and fresh.
Other Recipes You May Enjoy
- spicy ricotta dip with hot honey
- easy baked mozzarella chicken
- creamy white chicken enchiladas
- air fryer salmon quick healthy recipe
Conclusion
This fried burrata over arrabbiata sauce is pure comfort with every bite—crispy outside, creamy inside, and bursting with flavor. Whether you fry it or use the air fryer, it’s a simple yet impressive dish that anyone can master. Try it tonight and share it with friends. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create restaurant-quality food right at home. Check out more recipes and inspiration at Pinterest.

fried-burrata-over-arrabbiata-sauce
Equipment
- Saucepan For cooking the arrabbiata sauce
- Air fryer or deep fryer Used for frying burrata
- Mixing bowls For dredging ingredients
- Tongs For handling burrata while frying
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2–3 tsp chili flakes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste (Pomi brand)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 24 oz Pomi Rustica Tomatoes
- ½ cup basil leaves, torn, plus extra for garnish
- 8 oz fresh burrata
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (any type)
- oil for frying or air frying
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add chili flakes and sauté briefly. Stir in tomato paste and onions, cooking until onions are translucent, about 5–6 minutes. Add garlic and cook until fragrant. Add tomatoes, breaking up large pieces with a spoon. Reduce heat and simmer 25–35 minutes until thickened. Stir in ¼ cup basil.
- While sauce simmers, prepare burrata. Dredge in flour, egg, breadcrumbs, then repeat with egg and breadcrumbs. Freeze for 15 minutes or refrigerate 30 minutes to firm up.
- Heat oil to 350°F. Carefully fry burrata for 3–4 minutes until golden. Drain on paper towels. For air fryer, cook at 350°F for 15 minutes until golden and crisp.
- To serve, place fried burrata over the sauce, top with basil, and season to taste. Serve with fresh bread.
