Pin it The first time I made this, I was actually trying to use up some leftover burrata from a dinner party the night before. I didn't expect it to become the sandwich that my friends now text me about randomly at 2 PM, asking if I can make it for them.
I made these for my sister when she was visiting last month, and she literally said nothing for five full minutes after taking her first bite. Just sat there making happy noises. That's when I knew this sandwich was something special.
Ingredients
- Sourdough or rustic country bread: Sturdy enough to hold everything together without getting soggy, plus it develops this incredible crunch when grilled
- Unsalted butter: Softened to room temperature so it spreads evenly and helps achieve that perfect golden exterior
- Prosciutto: Gets even better when crisped in the pan first, adding texture and concentrated salty flavor
- Fresh burrata: The creamy interior melts beautifully while the milky outer layer holds things together
- Fresh basil leaves: Optional but adds this bright peppery note that cuts through all the richness
Instructions
- Prep your bread:
- Butter one side of each bread slice generously and evenly, all the way to the edges so every bite gets that golden crust
- Crisp the prosciutto:
- Lay the slices directly in a dry skillet over medium heat, flipping after a minute or two until they're like salty bacon chips
- Build your masterpiece:
- Place buttered bread butter-side down, tear the burrata and scatter it, then layer on crispy prosciutto and basil with some fresh pepper
- Grill to perfection:
- Cook sandwiches butter-side down for 3 to 4 minutes, pressing gently with your spatula until golden and the burrata is melty and dreamy
Pin it My husband caught me eating one of these standing over the sink at 11 PM last week. I didn't even feel ashamed. Sometimes you just need that crispy creamy salty moment all to yourself.
Making It Vegetarian
I've made this without the prosciutto for vegetarian friends, and honestly, it's still incredible. Roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes add that savory element while keeping the same luxurious vibe. The burrata really carries the show here.
Bread Selection
After testing probably six different breads, I can say with confidence that a slightly sour sourdough or a dense country loaf works best. Anything too soft will disintegrate, and anything too thick won't let the cheese heat through properly. You want bread that's sturdy but not fortress-like.
Serving Suggestions
These sandwiches are surprisingly rich, so I like to serve them with something acidic on the side. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette works beautifully, or even just some pickled vegetables. The brightness balances all that creamy goodness perfectly.
- A crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio cuts through the richness
- Hot tomato soup makes this feel like an elevated grownup version of the classic combo
- Serve immediately because that crispy texture window is precious and short
Pin it Hope this becomes your go-to comfort luxury meal. There's something so perfect about crispy buttery bread meets creamy cheese meets salty prosciutto. Pure happiness in sandwich form.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, sourdough or rustic country bread works best, but you can substitute with ciabatta, focaccia, or even brioche for a richer flavor. Avoid thin bread that may fall apart under pressure.
- → What's the best way to crisp the prosciutto?
Cook prosciutto slices separately in a dry skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side until crispy. This prevents the cheese from releasing excess moisture and keeps the prosciutto crunchy.
- → How do I prevent the sandwich from falling apart?
Distribute the burrata evenly and don't overstuff. Use a spatula to gently press while cooking, and let the sandwich set for a minute after removing from heat before cutting or serving.
- → Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. Omit the prosciutto or replace it with roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or caramelized onions for a delicious vegetarian version with similar richness.
- → What wine pairs well with this sandwich?
A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Vermentino complements the richness of the burrata and prosciutto beautifully. Light Italian lagers are also excellent choices.
- → Can I add other ingredients to customize it?
Definitely. Try drizzling honey or balsamic glaze before closing the sandwich, adding arugula, tomato slices, or fig jam for extra flavor dimensions.