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There’s a wonderful thrill that comes from the first bite of a crispy fried burrata, and I can’t help but smile each time I make this dish. Imagine that glorious golden crust giving way to a beautifully melted center, paired seamlessly with sweet, balsamic-marinated cherry tomatoes. It’s not just an appetizer; it’s a sensory experience that instantly elevates any gathering.

I first discovered this delightful recipe during a casual dinner party when I needed something special to impress my friends. One crunchy bite led to a chorus of “wow”s around the table. You’d be surprised at how quickly this dish comes together, especially when you embrace its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a crowd-pleaser that looks and tastes gourmet. Whether you’re spicing up your weeknight meals or setting the stage for an elegant soirée, this crispy fried burrata with balsamic-marinated tomatoes is sure to become a favorite. Join me as we dive into this delicious journey that will satisfy your cravings for homemade goodness, one mouthwatering bite at a time!

Why love Fried Burrata with Balsamic-Marinated Tomatoes?

Deliciously crispy: The golden crust adds a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the creamy burrata inside.
Quick & easy: With just a few ingredients and steps, you can wow your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Crowd-pleaser: This dish is not only beautiful but also delivers an explosion of flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Versatile variations: Customize your dish by experimenting with different tomato types or herbs to fit any occasion.
Elegant presentation: Serve it up on grilled bread for a stunning appetizer that looks as good as it tastes. For more amazing appetizer ideas, check out our appetizers section.

Fried Burrata with Balsamic-Marinated Tomatoes Ingredients

For the Burrata

Burrata Cheese – This creamy goodness is the main attraction; use fresh burrata for the best results.
Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning; a light sprinkle will enhance all the flavors beautifully.
Eggs – Acts as a binder for the breadcrumbs; you can use aquafaba for a vegan option.

For the Coating

All-purpose Flour – Creates a barrier around the cheese; feel free to swap with gluten-free flour if needed.
Panko Breadcrumbs – These create the irresistible crispy exterior; their texture is key for frying.

For the Balsamic Tomatoes

Cherry Tomatoes – Offers both sweetness and acidity; marinating them intensifies the flavor—mixed heirloom tomatoes also work wonderfully.

For Serving

Grilled Bread – Perfect for serving the finished dish; adds a lovely crunch and rustic charm.
Additional Balsamic – A drizzle enhances the presentation and flavor; don’t skip this step for the complete experience!

Dive into the delightful world of Fried Burrata with Balsamic-Marinated Tomatoes, and don’t forget those creative variations!

How to Make Fried Burrata with Balsamic-Marinated Tomatoes

Prepare Tomatoes: Slice the cherry tomatoes and marinate them in balsamic vinegar mixed with a pinch of kosher salt. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb all those wonderful flavors.
Dredge Burrata: Take your fresh burrata and coat it first in all-purpose flour, followed by beaten eggs. Finally, roll it in panko breadcrumbs, ensuring an even layer covers the entire cheese.
Freeze Burrata: Place the coated burrata in the freezer for about 10 minutes. This will help firm it up, making it easier to fry without losing its shape.
Fry Burrata: Heat oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the frozen, breaded burrata to the hot oil and shallow fry for about 2-3 minutes per side until it turns golden brown and crispy.
Serve: Place the fried burrata on a serving plate or on top of grilled bread. Spoon the balsamic-marinated tomatoes generously over the top and drizzle with extra balsamic if desired for an extra burst of flavor.

Optional: Serve with fresh basil for an aromatic touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Fried Burrata with Balsamic-Marinated Tomatoes?

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this show-stopping appetizer with complementary sides that balance flavors and textures beautifully.

Crispy Grilled Bread: Perfect for scooping up the creamy burrata and sweet tomatoes, adding a delightful crunch to each bite.
Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing side with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the fried cheese, keeping the meal vibrant and fresh.
Herbed Quinoa: This nutty grain is a wholesome complement, absorbing the flavorful juices from the tomatoes while adding a satisfying chew.
Roasted Garlic Potatoes: The creamy, buttery texture of the potatoes contrasts beautifully with the crispy cheesiness, making for a comforting combination.
Charcuterie Board: Include an assortment of cured meats and olives to enhance the appetizer experience, adding a touch of sophistication.
Sparkling Wine: A chilled glass of prosecco elevates the dish with its bubbles, cutting through the creaminess and refreshing the palate.
Lemon Sorbet: As a light dessert, it cleanses the palate and leaves a bright note after indulging in the rich flavors of burrata.
Pesto Pasta Salad: A fun twist on traditional pasta, this can serve as a vibrant side, utilizing fresh basil’s aromatic touch to echo the marinade.
Caprese Skewers: Easy to eat and visually appealing, these skewers bring in fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and a basil drizzle, harmonizing wonderfully with your main dish.

How to Store and Freeze Fried Burrata with Balsamic-Marinated Tomatoes

Fridge: Store any leftover fried burrata in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day for the best flavor and texture recovery.

Freezer: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze uncooked, breaded burrata for later use. Wrap each piece tightly and store for up to 1 month.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat fried burrata in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until warm and crispy again.

Tomato Storage: Keep marinated tomatoes in the fridge for up to 2 days; they can lose some crunchiness but still pack flavor with your dish.

Make Ahead Options

These Fried Burrata with Balsamic-Marinated Tomatoes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during meal prep! You can marinate the cherry tomatoes in balsamic vinegar up to 3 days in advance. Simply slice the tomatoes, toss them with balsamic and a sprinkle of salt, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to serve. Additionally, you can dredge the burrata in flour, egg, and panko breadcrumbs 24 hours ahead. Store the coated cheese in the freezer until you’re ready to fry it—just directly add the frozen burrata to the hot oil for quick cooking. This way, when guests arrive, you’ll have a stunning appetizer that feels fresh and indulgent without the last-minute rush!

Expert Tips for Fried Burrata

Use Fresh Burrata: Ensure the burrata is fresh; its creaminess is key to achieving that luscious texture which makes this fried burrata irresistible.
Proper Dredging: Coat the cheese first in flour, then eggs, and finally panko breadcrumbs for an even and crispy exterior. Avoid leaving areas uncovered.
Chill Before Frying: Freezing the coated burrata for about 10 minutes is essential; it helps keep the cheese intact during frying, preventing it from melting away.
Hot Oil is Crucial: Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the burrata; this gives it a perfect crispy texture without absorbing too much oil.
Watch Frying Time: Fry for a brief 2-3 minutes per side; too long can lead to overcooking and losing the creamy center.
Choose Ripe Tomatoes: Use ripe cherry tomatoes for marinating; their sweetness and acidity balance beautifully with the fried burrata, enhancing the overall flavor.

Fried Burrata Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these delightful twists!

Mozzarella Switch: Substitute burrata with fresh mozzarella for a milder flavor alternative. It yields similar creamy goodness but with a different texture experience.
Herb-Infused Tomatoes: Add fresh basil or oregano to the marinated tomatoes for a fragrant uplift. These herbs will infuse the dish with garden-fresh flavor, elevating each bite.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle some chili flakes into the tomato marinade for an extra touch of heat. It introduces a delightful kick that balances the creaminess of the fried cheese.
Vegan Delight: Use vegan mozzarella instead of burrata and replace eggs with aquafaba in the dredging process. This allows everyone to enjoy the flavors without compromising on dietary restrictions.
Crunch Factor: Mix in crushed nuts like pistachios or walnuts with the panko breadcrumbs for added crunch. This textural contrast will make your fried burrata even more satisfying.
Balsamic Reduction: Drizzle a balsamic reduction over the top before serving for a more intense flavor. The sweetness of the reduction will complement the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully.
Fruit Twist: Experiment with ripe peaches or figs instead of tomatoes for a stunning sweet-savory combo. This fruity substitution brings a refreshing twist to the flavor profile.
Savory Add-ins: Consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or olives into the cherry tomato mixture for an unexpected burst of umami. The saltiness pairs wonderfully with the creamy burrata.

Fried Burrata with Balsamic-Marinated Tomatoes Recipe FAQs

What type of burrata should I use?
Absolutely! Always opt for fresh burrata when making this recipe. The creaminess of fresh burrata is the star of the show, enhancing the overall taste and texture. Look for burrata that has a glossy exterior and feels soft to the touch.

How should I store leftover fried burrata?
Very carefully! Store any leftover fried burrata in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Since the crispy texture diminishes over time, it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh. To reheat, use the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes for the best results.

Can I freeze leftover or uncooked burrata?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked, breaded burrata! Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They should keep well for up to 1 month. When you’re ready, just thaw in the fridge overnight and then fry as per the instructions.

What do I do if the fried burrata falls apart in the oil?
To prevent the burrata from falling apart, ensure it is slightly frozen before frying. If you find it’s still crumbling, check your oil temperature; it should be hot enough to create a quick seal around the cheese. Try frying smaller batches to prevent temperature drops.

Can I make this dish vegan?
Very much so! To create a vegan version of this recipe, swap the burrata for a plant-based cheese option and use aquafaba instead of eggs for dredging. You can also marinate your tomatoes in a balsamic reduction without adding any traditional seasonings involving animal products.

Are there any allergies I should be aware of?
Absolutely! This dish contains dairy due to the burrata cheese, which is a common allergen. If serving this to guests, it’s crucial to let them know about the ingredients. Always opt for gluten-free flour and panko if you have someone with gluten sensitivities!