If you’re wondering why burrata cheese is so popular among cheese lovers, go no further than its name. Burrata translates as “buttered” in Italian, indicating its rich texture and taste. And who doesn’t like the taste of butter? Burrata is traditionally made from a mix of mozzarella and cream, giving it a unique sweet and savory flavor.
The cheese is then formed into a ball filled with cream, giving it an even richer texture. But what do you do if you can’t find it at your local grocery store? Luckily, despite its popularity, there are still a few substitutes for burrata cheese, and we’ve compiled them together for you.
Outline
6 Substitutes For Burrata Cheese
1. Mozarella Cheese
The first, and most apparent substitute for burrata cheese is mozzarella cheese. As we mentioned before, burrata is traditionally made with a mix of mozzarella and cream. So, if you can’t find burrata, just go for the mozzarella.
This delicious cheese is famous for its role in pizza but can also be enjoyed on its own. Like burrata, mozzarella is a fresh cheese made from cow’s milk. It has a white color and a smooth texture. Mozarella is less creamy than burrata, but it will still provide the same savory flavor to your dish. You can even try to make your own mozzarella at home.
How to substitute: You can use mozzarella cheese in any dish that calls for burrata. Just keep in mind that it won’t be as creamy.
2. Ricotta Cheese
Ricotta is a fresh Italian cheese made from sheep, cow, or goat’s milk whey. It has a smooth texture with a slightly sweet flavor. While it doesn’t have the same buttery taste as burrata, it can be used as a substitute in many dishes.
The main point of difference is that ricotta is a dryer cheese which means it won’t work as well in a dish where you’re looking for that gooey, creamy texture. What’s great about this cheese is that it is very rich in protein, making it a healthier substitute.
How to substitute: When substituting ricotta for burrata, use half the amount of ricotta as you would burrata. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 cup of burrata, use 1/2 cup of ricotta instead.
3. Feta Cheese
Famous in Greek cuisine, feta cheese is a white, brined cheese made from sheep or goat’s milk. Both these have some similarities, especially in terms of their texture, but the main difference lies in their flavor. Feta cheese is saltier and tangier than burrata, so use it accordingly in your dish.
While it doesn’t taste precisely like burrata, it can be used as a substitute for the same in many dishes. You can use feta cheese in salads, pizzas, pasta, etc.
How to substitute: If you’re using feta cheese as a substitute for burrata, cut down on the amount of salt you add to the dish. Feta is a very salty cheese, and you don’t want your dish to be too salty.
4. Cream Cheese
Cream cheese is an excellent replacement for burrata if you want to add toppings to tasted crostinis since it has a similar creamy feel. It’s a smooth, creamy cheese that’s ideal for spreading or dipping when served at room temperature.
Refrigerate the cream cheese for at least 30 minutes before serving to ensure it is firm enough to consume. The balance of milk and cream in cream cheese makes it an excellent cheese for baking as well. This cheese is said to have a high-fat content, so keep that in mind if you’re on specific diets.
How to substitute: You can use cream cheese in the same proportion as burrata cheese.
5. Cashew Cheese
As the name suggests, this cheese is made from cashews. It’s a vegan cheese with a similar creamy texture to burrata, making it a top choice for people searching for a dairy-free option. While the lack of dairy means it doesn’t have that typical cheesy flavor, it does have a slightly sweet taste.
This cheese is made by blending soaked cashews, water, and nutritional yeast. You can also add other flavors like garlic, onion, or herbs to enhance the taste. This cheese is a good source of protein and healthy fats.
How to substitute: The shelf life of cashew cheese is shorter than other cheeses on this list, so use it only if you plan on consuming it within a few days. You can use cashew cheese in the same proportion as burrata cheese.
6. Queso Fresco Cheese
This is a type of fresh Mexican cheese that’s made from cow’s milk. Queso fresco means “fresh cheese” in Spanish, and it lives up to its name with its soft, creamy texture. It is specifically known for its delicate flavor that efficiently and evenly melts in dishes, giving the final dish a beautiful creaminess that makes everyone a fan.
It’s worth noting that some queso fresco is matured for up to six months, giving it a more intense taste. As a result, you may have to get either mild or aged cheese, depending on your recipe. You can use this cheese in salads, tacos, enchiladas, etc.
How to substitute: Because queso fresco is a very mild cheese, it’s best to use it in dishes where the other flavors are intense. You can use queso fresco in the same proportion as burrata cheese.
We hope this list has helped you find the best substitutes for burrata cheese. With these six options, you can create the same flavor and texture in your dishes when you don’t have burrata cheese at hand.
