If you are looking for a show-stopping appetizer that brings the fresh flavors of an Italian classic in a fun, shareable way, the Burrata Caprese Dip with Crostini Recipe is an absolute winner. This dip captures the juicy sweetness of sautéed cherry tomatoes, the creamy richness of burrata cheese, and the aromatic punch of fresh basil, all balanced beautifully with a drizzle of tangy balsamic glaze. Paired with crispy, golden crostini, it’s a dish that’s as delightful to eat as it is to serve at any gathering, making every bite a celebration of simple, quality ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about the Burrata Caprese Dip with Crostini Recipe is how it uses straightforward, wholesome ingredients that each bring something essential to the table. From the spicy hint of crushed red pepper to the velvety burrata and fresh herbs, these components come together to create a vibrant taste and texture experience.
- Olive oil (3 tbsp): Provides a fragrant, smooth base perfect for sautéing and brushing on crostini.
- Crushed red pepper (1 1/4 tsp): Adds a subtle spicy kick that elevates the tomatoes without overpowering.
- Garlic, chopped (5 cloves): Offers aromatic depth and warmth to the sautéed tomato mixture.
- Cherry tomatoes, sliced (1 pound): The star ingredient, bringing juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
- Salt (to taste): Enhances all the flavors, highlighting the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Black pepper (1/8 tsp plus freshly ground): Adds subtle heat and complexity.
- Burrata cheese (4 ounces or 1 ball): The creamy, luscious finish that makes this dip irresistible.
- Fresh basil, julienne (1/8 cup): Fresh herbaceous brightness that cuts through the richness.
- Balsamic glaze (for drizzling): Brings a tangy-sweet contrast, balancing the creamy and savory notes.
- Baguette (sliced 1/4 inch thick): Provides a crunchy, earthy vehicle for scooping up every last bit of dip.
How to Make Burrata Caprese Dip with Crostini Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Garlic and Cherry Tomatoes
The magic begins by gently heating olive oil in a pan and infusing it with crushed red pepper flakes and garlic until fragrant—this builds a flavorful foundation. Next, the cherry tomatoes join the party, getting cozy with salt and black pepper, covered and cooked gently so their natural juices release and mingle into a luscious, slightly saucy mixture. Pressing the tomatoes just a bit helps coax out their sweetness, creating a vibrant base that will melt perfectly with the burrata topping.
Step 2: Assemble the Dip
Once the tomato mixture is ready, transfer it carefully to your serving dish. Now, the fun part is layering: nestle the fresh, creamy burrata cheese right on top. This cheese has a dreamy texture that balances the bright tomato flavors. To finish, drizzle the dip generously with balsamic glaze and scatter fresh julienned basil and a crack of freshly ground black pepper. The contrast of colors and flavors here is almost too pretty to eat—but don’t hold back!
Step 3: Prepare the Crostini
To complement the rich dip, slice your baguette into thin rounds and brush each slice with olive oil. Toast them in a 400-degree oven or toaster oven until golden and crisp, around 3 to 4 minutes. These crunchy crostini are the perfect vehicles, adding a toasty, buttery crunch that contrasts brilliantly with the creamy burrata and warm tomato mixture.
How to Serve Burrata Caprese Dip with Crostini Recipe
Garnishes
For a stunning presentation, add a few extra leaves of fresh basil on top just before serving to amp up that fresh aroma and bright green pop. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt can enhance textures and taste, and a light drizzle of balsamic glaze right before serving adds that glossy finish and a sweet tang that elevates each bite.
Side Dishes
This dip pairs wonderfully with a light salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or alongside a chilled glass of crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio. For heartier fare, serve it with grilled vegetables or prosciutto to complement the creamy and tangy flavors while adding more layers to your appetizer spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the dip in a hollowed-out bread bowl to make it an edible centerpiece, or assemble individual dip cups layered with tiny crostini rounds for guests to grab and go at parties. You can also arrange the crostini in a fan shape around the dip on a wooden board for a rustic, Instagram-worthy look that’s guaranteed to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (and you might after everyone falls in love), place the dip in an airtight container and refrigerate it promptly. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, making it an even tastier treat the next day. Keep crostini separate in a sealed bag or container to preserve their crunch.
Freezing
While the tomato base can be frozen in a sealed container, burrata cheese does not freeze well due to its delicate texture. For best results, freeze only the sautéed tomatoes and garlic mixture, then thaw and reheat gently before adding fresh burrata just before serving.
Reheating
Warm the tomato mixture slowly on the stovetop over low heat to avoid breaking down the texture. Once heated through, transfer to your serving dish, add the burrata fresh, and finish with basil and balsamic glaze as usual. Avoid microwaving for best flavor and texture retention.
FAQs
Can I use mozzarella instead of burrata in the Burrata Caprese Dip with Crostini Recipe?
You can substitute mozzarella if burrata isn’t available, but keep in mind that burrata’s creamy interior is what makes this dip extra special and luxurious. Mozzarella will provide that familiar milky flavor but without the luscious creaminess.
Is it possible to make this dip vegan?
To make a vegan version, swap burrata for a plant-based creamy cheese alternative, and ensure your balsamic glaze and crostini are free from animal products. The sautéed tomatoes and garlic provide fantastic flavor, so this still works well as a vegan-friendly appetizer.
How spicy is the crushed red pepper in this recipe?
The amount of crushed red pepper adds just a gentle warmth that lifts the overall flavor without being overpowering. If you’re sensitive to spice, feel free to reduce the amount or omit it entirely—you’ll still have a delicious dip!
Can I prepare the tomato mixture ahead of time and assemble just before serving?
Absolutely! The tomato mixture can be cooked and stored in the fridge a day in advance. When ready to serve, warm it gently and then assemble with burrata and garnishes for a fresh, hassle-free appetizer.
What can I use if I don’t have a toaster oven for the crostini?
A regular oven works perfectly fine—just preheat to 400 degrees and toast the baguette slices on a baking sheet for about 3 to 4 minutes. Alternatively, you can grill the bread slices quickly on a stove-top grill pan for a lovely charred flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the Burrata Caprese Dip with Crostini Recipe that makes it an instant crowd favorite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, looking for a cozy snack, or craving a burst of fresh, comforting flavors, this dip checks every box. Dive in and enjoy the beautiful dance of creamy cheese, sweet tomatoes, and herbaceous basil—you just might find yourself making it again and again.
Print
Burrata Caprese Dip with Crostini Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 5 to 5.5 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Burrata Caprese Dip with Crostini is a delightful twist on the classic Caprese salad, combining creamy burrata cheese, sautéed cherry tomatoes infused with garlic and red pepper flakes, and fresh basil. Served with crispy, olive oil-brushed baguette slices, this appetizer is perfect for entertaining or a flavorful snack.
Ingredients
Dip Ingredients
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 5 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 pound cherry tomatoes, sliced
- Salt, to taste
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- 4 ounces burrata cheese (or 1 ball of burrata)
- 1/8 cup fresh basil, julienned
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling (Trader Joe’s recommended)
- Freshly ground black pepper, for topping
Crostini Ingredients
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4 inch slices
- Olive oil, for brushing on bread slices
Instructions
- Sauté Garlic & Cherry Tomatoes: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add crushed red pepper flakes, then garlic, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Add cherry tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Cover and cook for 8–9 minutes over low-medium heat. Gently press the tomatoes to release their juices and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until a slightly saucy consistency forms. Stir in fresh basil and remove from heat.
- Assemble Dip: Transfer the tomato mixture to a serving dish. Top with burrata cheese, then drizzle generously with balsamic glaze. Sprinkle with additional fresh basil and freshly ground black pepper to finish.
- Prepare Crostini: Slice the baguette into 1/4 inch thick slices. Brush each slice with olive oil. Toast in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 400°F (204°C) for 3–4 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Serve the crostini alongside the burrata caprese dip.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.
- Burrata can be substituted with fresh mozzarella for a different texture.
- The balsamic glaze adds a sweet tang, but regular balsamic vinegar can be reduced to a glaze as an alternative.
- Serve immediately to enjoy crostini at their crispest.
- Leftover dip can be refrigerated and enjoyed within 1-2 days but is best fresh.
