You ever need a quick appetizer that looks fancy but takes almost zero effort? Same. Between school drop-offs, snack requests every five minutes, and trying to keep my kitchen from looking like a crime scene, I don’t have time for complicated. That’s why these Burrata Cheese Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes are my go-to for easy finger food appetizers that taste like a million bucks—but take less time than convincing my kids to put on shoes.
These little bites of heaven check all the boxes:
- Quick appetizers (we’re talking under 15 minutes)
- Easy finger foods for a party (or just for snacking while hiding in the pantry—no judgment)
- Cold appetizers (no cooking = my kind of recipe)
- Fancy but easy appetizers (because we deserve nice things, even on busy nights)
Whether you need bite-size appetizers for a party, a simple appetizer for girls’ night, or just a quick and easy tomato snack, these are it. Plus, they’re make-ahead friendly—so you can whip ‘em up before guests arrive and actually enjoy the party instead of running around the kitchen.
Pair them with some cold dips and appetizers, a glass of wine, and boom—you’ve got the perfect finger foods for a small gathering. Let’s be real, anything with burrata cheese is a win. Let’s make these!
Ingredients You Need
You don’t need a lot for this one, just some really good, fresh ingredients:
- 4 large ripe tomatoes (heirloom or beefsteak work great)
- 2 balls of burrata cheese (aka the creamiest, dreamiest cheese ever)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (the good stuff, if you have it)
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (this makes it next-level delicious)
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Fresh basil leaves, torn
- Optional: Crushed red pepper flakes for a little spice
How to make Italian Burrata Stuffed Tomatoes
Step 1: Prep the Tomatoes
Start by slicing off the tops of your tomatoes. Then, grab a spoon and gently scoop out the insides. (Tip: Save the tomato guts! You can toss them into a soup or pasta sauce later. No food waste here.)
Once they’re hollowed out, sprinkle a little salt inside each tomato and flip them upside down on a paper towel. This helps pull out extra moisture so they don’t get soggy. Let them sit for about 5 minutes while you move on to the good stuff.
Step 2: Stuff ‘Em With Burrata
Now for the best part—the cheese. Burrata is basically mozzarella’s creamier, fancier cousin. If you’ve never had it, get ready for a life-changing moment.
Tear or cut the burrata into chunks (warning: it’s super soft, so it might get a little messy). Then, stuff each tomato as full as you can. No such thing as too much cheese, right?
Step 3: Drizzle & Garnish
Drizzle olive oil and balsamic glaze over the top. The balsamic adds this sweet, tangy flavor that makes the whole thing pop. Then, sprinkle on black pepper and, if you like a little kick, some red pepper flakes.
Tear up a few basil leaves and scatter them on top. Because nothing screams “Italian summer” like fresh basil.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
And that’s it! You can eat them right away, or let them chill in the fridge for 10–15 minutes so the flavors really soak in. Serve them as an appetizer, a light lunch, or alongside some crusty bread for extra yum.
Bonus points if you eat them outside with a glass of wine and pretend you’re in Tuscany.
FAQs – Because We All Have Questions (And Not Enough Time)
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! These are perfect make-ahead appetizers for a party. Just stuff the tomatoes a few hours in advance, cover them, and keep them in the fridge. Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic glaze right before serving so they stay fresh.
What’s the best type of tomato to use?
I love cherry tomatoes or Campari tomatoes because they’re sweet and bite-sized—aka perfect for finger food appetizers. If you want bigger portions, go for heirloom or beefsteak tomatoes.
What if I can’t find burrata cheese?
You can swap in fresh mozzarella, but burrata is creamier and just next level. If you can find it, it’s worth it!
Do I have to use balsamic glaze?
Nope! But it does add a sweet-tangy kick that makes these bite-size appetizers even better. You can also try a drizzle of honey for a slightly different flavor.
Can I use different herbs?
Absolutely! Fresh basil is classic, but chives, parsley, or oregano would work too.
Italian Burrata Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe Card
Italian Burrata Stuffed Tomatoes
Ingredients
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes or small Campari tomatoes
- 1 ball burrata cheese torn into small pieces
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze
- ¼ tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 4-5 fresh basil leaves torn
Optional:
- Crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Instructions
Prep the Tomatoes
- Slice the tops off the cherry tomatoes.
- Use a small spoon or knife to gently scoop out the seeds and juices (save for sauce if you like!).
- Sprinkle a tiny bit of salt inside each tomato and place them upside down on a paper towel to drain.
Stuff with Burrata
- Tear the burrata into small bite-sized chunks and carefully stuff each tomato.
Drizzle & Garnish
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
- Sprinkle with black pepper and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Top with fresh torn basil leaves.
Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve immediately or chill for 10–15 minutes for extra flavor.
- Perfect as finger food appetizers, easy snacks, or a quick appetizer for a party!
Notes
- Make Ahead: Prep the tomatoes and cheese ahead, but wait to drizzle the balsamic until serving.
- Add Crunch: Try topping with toasted pine nuts or crushed pistachios.
- Swap Herbs: No basil? Use chives, parsley, or oregano.
- Pair It With: Serve alongside cold dips and appetizers like pesto or whipped ricotta!
I love that these are bite-size appetizers that work for so many occasions—finger foods for a small gathering, a fun add-on to your cold dips and appetizers spread, or even as part of a bigger easy finger foods party. Plus, they’re make-ahead appetizers for a crowd, so you can prep them in advance and actually enjoy the party instead of running around like a stressed-out caterer.
So next time you need easy appetizers for a party, or just a fun way to enjoy tomato snacks, keep this one in your back pocket. Simple, fresh, and totally delicious!
Now, if only every appetizer recipe was this easy, right?
