Mortadella, Burrata and Pesto Sandwich

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This sandwich feels like something you’d order at a cozy Italian café. The mortadella brings a savory, slightly nutty flavor, while burrata adds irresistible creaminess. Pesto ties everything together with fresh, herby brightness. It’s quick to prepare, yet special enough to impress guests or treat yourself.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Crusty bread (ciabatta, focaccia, or baguette)
• Mortadella slices
• Fresh burrata cheese
• Basil pesto (homemade or high-quality store-bought)
• Arugula or baby spinach
• Olive oil (optional, for brushing)
• Optional: sliced tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or balsamic glaze

Directions

1. Slice the bread lengthwise and, if desired, brush lightly with olive oil. Toast or grill until golden.
2. Spread a layer of pesto on the bottom half of the bread.
3. Layer slices of mortadella evenly over the pesto.
4. Tear the burrata into pieces and distribute across the sandwich.
5. Add arugula or spinach for freshness.
6. Optional: layer in sliced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra flavor.
7. Drizzle lightly with balsamic glaze if using.
8. Close the sandwich with the top half of the bread.
9. Press gently, slice, and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2 sandwiches.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes (if toasting bread)
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Prosciutto Swap: Replace mortadella with prosciutto for a different Italian twist.
• Spicy Version: Add a smear of Calabrian chili paste for heat.
• Veggie Boost: Add grilled zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms for a heartier sandwich.
• Caprese Style: Include fresh tomato slices and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a Caprese-inspired flavor.
• Wrap It Up: Use a soft flatbread or wrap instead of crusty bread.

Storage/Reheating

This sandwich is best eaten fresh due to the delicate burrata.
If storing, wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 hours. Add burrata just before serving to avoid sogginess.
Reheating is not recommended once burrata is added.

FAQs

What is mortadella?

Mortadella is an Italian cold cut made from finely ground pork, lightly seasoned, and sometimes studded with pistachios.

Can I substitute burrata with mozzarella?

Yes, fresh mozzarella is a good substitute if burrata isn’t available.

Do I need to toast the bread?

It’s optional, but toasting adds texture and helps hold the fillings together.

What type of pesto works best?

Classic basil pesto is traditional, but sun-dried tomato or arugula pesto also work well.

Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?

Yes, omit the mortadella and load up on grilled vegetables and burrata.

How do I keep burrata from making the sandwich soggy?

Add it just before serving and use toasted bread to help absorb some of the moisture.

What side dishes pair well with this sandwich?

A simple green salad, caprese salad, or a small bowl of soup pairs nicely.

Can I meal prep this sandwich?

You can prep the bread, pesto, and mortadella in advance. Add burrata and greens right before eating.

Is this sandwich kid-friendly?

Yes, though kids may prefer mozzarella over burrata for a less creamy texture.

Can I add more protein?

Yes, layer in grilled chicken breast or turkey slices alongside mortadella.

Conclusion

The Mortadella, Burrata and Pesto Sandwich is a decadent yet simple Italian-inspired sandwich that combines creamy, savory, and fresh flavors in every bite. With silky burrata, flavorful pesto, and rich mortadella tucked into crusty bread, it’s a sandwich that feels both indulgent and refreshing—perfect for when you want something quick yet unforgettable.

Mortadella, Burrata and Pesto Sandwich

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The Mortadella, Burrata and Pesto Sandwich is a luxurious Italian-inspired sandwich featuring savory mortadella, creamy burrata, and fresh basil pesto layered on crusty bread. Finished with arugula and optional extras like tomatoes or balsamic glaze, it’s quick, rich, and bursting with bold Mediterranean flavor.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 2 sandwiches
• Category: Sandwich
• Method: No-Cook or Toasted
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

1. 2 crusty sandwich rolls (ciabatta, focaccia, or baguette)
2. 6–8 slices mortadella
3. 1 ball fresh burrata cheese
4. 2 tablespoons basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
5. 1/2 cup arugula or baby spinach
6. 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for brushing bread)
7. Optional: sliced tomatoes, roasted red peppers, balsamic glaze

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Instructions

Slice the bread rolls in half and lightly brush the cut sides with olive oil if desired. Toast in a pan or oven until golden brown.

1. Spread 1 tablespoon of pesto on the bottom half of each toasted roll.
2. Layer 3–4 slices of mortadella on each sandwich.
3. Tear the burrata into pieces and distribute evenly over the mortadella.
4. Add a handful of arugula or baby spinach.
5. Optional: layer in sliced tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or drizzle with balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
6. Place the top half of the bread on the sandwich. Press gently, slice, and serve immediately.

Notes

• Toast the bread for better texture and to prevent sogginess.
• Add burrata just before serving to maintain its creaminess.
• Swap mortadella with prosciutto or add grilled vegetables for variety.
• Store components separately if prepping ahead of time.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 sandwich
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 880mg
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 60mg