Mozzarella vs Burrata: An Italian Cheese Showdown

When it comes to Italian cheeses, Mozzarella and Burrata often steal the spotlight. Both look similar at first glance—round, white and sitting pretty in their briny pools.

However, they’re far from interchangeable. If you’ve been wondering what sets these two apart, you’re in the right place.

Here’s everything you need to know about Mozzarella vs Burrata and why they each deserve a coveted spot in your fridge.

Mozzarella: The timeless Italian classic

Mozzarella is a true classic in the cheese world. Made from the milk of water buffalo or cows, this semi-soft cheese is known for its mild flavor, smooth texture, and impressive melting quality.

Traditional Mozzarella, or “Fior di Latte,” is often packed in brine or whey, keeping it fresh and moist for all your cheese needs.

When it comes to versatility, Mozzarella may just be unbeatable. It’s the undisputed hero of pizzas, lasagnas, and caprese salads. But Mozzarella trends are showing us just how adaptable this cheese can be.

Lately, we’ve seen fresh Mozzarella used in fusion recipes, modern comfort food, and even elevated snacking options, like pairing it with fruit or spiced jams.

Its mild taste allows it to complement a range of flavors while its simplicity continues to inspire both home cooks and professional chefs. Mozzarella isn’t just a staple cheese anymore—it’s a canvas for culinary creativity!

Burrata: The decadent cheese experience

Burrata might look a lot like Mozzarella at first glance, but it’s an entirely different experience once you cut into it.

This ball of cheese is made with a firm outer shell of Mozzarella and a gooey inside filled with cream and curd, referred to as stracciatella.

The name “Burrata” itself comes from the Italian word for butter, which perfectly describes its rich, creamy center.

Burrata is often hailed as a showstopper on charcuterie boards and elegant appetizers. Its indulgent texture and flavor make it a favorite in many upscale dining scenarios. But beyond its classic appeal, Burrata trends have recently been booming.

Chefs are experimenting with it in everything from pasta to desserts, showing how versatile this cheese can be.

Whether it’s topping fresh salads, spreading over warm bread, or melting into creative dishes, Burrata is a culinary crowd-pleaser that keeps inspiring new innovations in the kitchen!

Mozzarella vs Burrata – What is the Difference?

Texture and Filling

The most striking difference is the texture. Mozzarella is firmer and more solid, which is why it works so well for slicing, shredding, or melting.

Burrata, on the other hand, feels soft and pillowy to the touch. The real showstopper, though, is Burrata’s creamy core.

Once you slice into it, the luscious interior of stracciatella and cream oozes out, making it the ultimate indulgence.

Flavor Profiles

Mozzarella boasts a mild, milky taste that pairs well with most dishes without overpowering them. Its flavor is subtle, making it versatile for both cooking and eating fresh.

Burrata, by contrast, has a richer and more decadent flavor. The cream inside adds a luxurious, buttery taste that makes it stand out, perfect for when you want the cheese to take center stage.

Kitchen Versatility

Mozzarella is incredibly practical in the kitchen. You can grate it, melt it, incorporate it into recipes, or enjoy it plain.

It’s a cheese you’ll reach for every week, whether you’re making pizzas or sandwiches. Burrata, however, shines brightest in its raw form.

It’s more delicate, so you’ll often find it served as-is in salads or appetizers, where its creamy interior can be appreciated without fuss.

“Everyday” Vs. “Occasion” Cheese

Mozzarella is like the jeans of the cheese world—it goes with everything and can be dressed up or down. Burrata, though? That’s your designer outfit for special evenings.

It’s not that Burrata can’t be part of a regular meal, but it feels like a treat, perfect for impressing guests or elevating a dish.

Trends in the World of Cheese

Believe it or not, both Mozzarella and Burrata have had their fair share of moments in the spotlight. Cheese trends have increasingly shifted towards celebrating artisanal and fresh cheeses, and both of these options fit the bill perfectly.

For instance, Burrata has become a social media star because, well, who can resist posting a video of that creamy center spilling onto a plate? Meanwhile, Mozzarella trends lean towards the modern twists we’re seeing, such as smoked Mozzarella or Mozzarella stuffed with herbs.

Pairing these cheeses with foods outside traditional Italian cuisine is also a rising food trend. People are popping Burrata onto Korean-inspired rice dishes or melting Mozzarella into quesadillas—not the most traditional, but hey, it’s 2025. The increasingly globalized food scene is giving us fun, unexpected ways to enjoy these classic cheeses.

Popularity Contest

Now, which cheese is more popular? Honestly, it’s hard to say—Mozzarella has been an all-time favorite for decades, especially in the U.S., where it rules as the king of pizza toppings.

Burrata, on the other hand, has gained traction more recently, becoming the go-to cheese for upscale menus and Instagram-worthy brunch spreads.

Because Mozzarella is so versatile and easy to incorporate into meals, it holds the edge for everyday use. Burrata, though undeniably delicious, is more of a specialty item.

It’s the A-list celebrity of cheeses, while Mozzarella is the dependable character actor who’s always working in the background.

Both have their fans, and their growing presence reflects how food trends often celebrate fresh and indulgent options that cater to different culinary styles. The good news is—you don’t have to pick sides!

Which Is Healthier, Burrata or Mozzarella?

If you’re counting calories or watching your fat intake, Mozzarella comes out ahead. It’s lower in calories, fat, and cholesterol compared to Burrata.

A standard serving of Mozzarella contains around 85-100 calories and 6-8 grams of fat. Meanwhile, Burrata, with its rich creamy center, packs closer to 250 calories and 20 grams of fat per serving.

That said, both cheeses are excellent sources of protein and calcium, so it really depends on your dietary goals.

If you’re aiming for a lighter option, Mozzarella is the better choice. But if you’re indulging or celebrating, there’s no harm in savoring a little Burrata every now and then.

Which Is Better?

Ah, the ultimate question. The answer depends entirely on your needs and tastes. Mozzarella is your everyday hero—perfect for melting, layering, or enjoying solo with simple toppings. If you’re meal-prepping for the week or making dinner for a crowd, Mozzarella is the more practical pick.

But Burrata? Burrata is for those wow moments. It elevates dishes effortlessly, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just feeling fancy on a random Tuesday.

Serve it with a drizzle of balsamic glaze, cracked pepper, and roasted veggies, and you’ll instantly feel like you’re dining at a high-end bistro.

At the end of the day, there’s no “better” cheese—just the right cheese for the right occasion. If you can, keep both on hand and enjoy the best of both worlds!

Choosing the right cheese for the occasion

When deciding between mozzarella and burrata, consider the occasion and the dish you’re preparing. Mozzarella is your go-to cheese for versatility and functionality.

Whether you’re topping a Margherita pizza, layering it in lasagna, or crafting a sandwich, its mild flavor, and melting ability make it a dependable choice.

Burrata, by contrast, is a showstopper. Its creamy center and rich flavor deserve to be highlighted. Serve it as a starter with roasted tomatoes and balsamic glaze or as a decadent addition to a charcuterie board. For a surprising twist, try burrata as a dessert ingredient paired with fresh fruit or drizzled with honey.

FAQs

Is Burrata Just Fresh Mozzarella?

Not exactly. Burrata uses fresh Mozzarella to form its outer shell, but its creamy core makes it a whole different experience. Essentially, Burrata is like Mozzarella’s fancier cousin with a surprise inside.

Is Burrata Leftover Mozzarella?

Nope! Burrata isn’t made from “leftover” Mozzarella, though both cheeses are made using similar techniques. Burrata is purposefully crafted by filling Mozzarella with stracciatella and cream to create that signature oozy texture.

Can You Make Burrata from Store-Bought Mozzarella?

Not really. While you could attempt to craft Burrata at home, you’d need fresh, pliable Mozzarella to form the outer layer. Most store-bought Mozzarella is too firm to work with.

Is Burrata More Expensive Than Mozzarella?

Yes, generally speaking, Burrata is pricier than Mozzarella. Its intricate production process and shorter shelf life make it costlier to produce. That said, it’s well worth the splurge for special occasions.

A Cheesy Love Affair

Whether you love Mozzarella for its versatility or Burrata for its indulgent inner layer, there’s no denying that both cheeses bring something special to the table.

Next time you find yourself in the dairy aisle, why not treat yourself to a bit of both? After all, life’s too short for bad cheese.