The Ultimate Mortadella & Burrata Focaccia Sandwich: A Gourmet Delight

Some sandwiches are good, some are great, and then there are those that are truly unforgettable. The Mortadella & Burrata Focaccia Sandwich with Garlic Confit Aioli falls into the latter category—a luxurious combination of creamy burrata, savory mortadella, vibrant basil pesto, and peppery rocket, all encased in fluffy, golden focaccia. If you’ve been searching for the perfect sandwich, one that balances textures and flavors in every bite, this is the one to try.

This recipe brings together high-quality Italian ingredients with a homemade garlic confit aioli, elevating a simple sandwich into a gourmet experience. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch, an indulgent dinner, or to impress guests, this sandwich delivers a mouthwatering bite every time.

Why This Sandwich Stands Out

A Symphony of Flavors

This sandwich is more than just bread and fillings—it’s a carefully curated blend of flavors and textures:

• Creamy & Rich: The burrata adds an indulgent, creamy texture that perfectly complements the crisp focaccia.
• Savory & Salty: Mortadella, a classic Italian cured meat, brings a rich, slightly nutty flavor.
• Herbaceous & Fresh: Basil pesto adds an aromatic touch that brightens the sandwich.
• Peppery & Crisp: Fresh rocket (arugula) cuts through the richness with its peppery bite.
• Umami Depth: The garlic confit aioli ties everything together with its silky, slightly sweet, roasted garlic essence.

Perfectly Balanced Texture

One of the key elements of an outstanding sandwich is contrast in texture. Here, the crispy, golden focaccia meets soft, creamy burrata, while the light chewiness of mortadella complements the fresh crunch of rocket. Every bite delivers a satisfying balance of crunch, softness, and silkiness.

Simple Yet Sophisticated

Despite its gourmet appeal, this sandwich is surprisingly easy to prepare. The garlic confit aioli is the only component that requires extra effort, but it’s well worth it. However, if you’re short on time, you can substitute it with high-quality mayonnaise for a quicker alternative.

What Makes Mortadella Special?

Mortadella is often overshadowed by its more famous Italian cousins like prosciutto and salami, but it’s truly a hidden gem. Originating from Bologna, Italy, mortadella is a large, smooth-textured sausage made from finely ground pork, seasoned with spices, and often speckled with pistachios or black peppercorns.

Unlike standard deli ham, mortadella has a much more refined, buttery texture and a deeper, more complex flavor. It’s rich but not overpowering, and when combined with creamy burrata, it creates a harmonious and indulgent experience.

If you haven’t cooked with mortadella before, this sandwich is the perfect introduction to its delicious versatility.

A Closer Look at Burrata: The Star of the Show

If mozzarella is good, burrata is exceptional. This Italian cheese is a delicate pouch of mozzarella filled with stracciatella and cream, resulting in an unbelievably creamy and decadent texture. When sliced open, the soft center oozes out, making it a perfect complement to the slightly firmer mortadella and crisp focaccia.

Can You Substitute Burrata?

If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella is the best substitute. It has a similar milky, fresh flavor, though without the creamy interior. To mimic burrata’s texture, try mixing shredded mozzarella with a little crème fraîche or heavy cream—a quick hack that works beautifully.

What Is Garlic Confit Aioli and Why Does It Elevate the Sandwich?

Garlic confit is a French cooking technique where garlic cloves are slowly cooked in oil at a low temperature until they become golden, soft, and incredibly sweet. Blending these softened cloves with oil, egg, and lemon juice results in an ultra-smooth, flavorful aioli that adds a silky richness to the sandwich.

Can You Make a Shortcut Version?

If you’re in a hurry, you can make a simple cheat’s aioli by mixing high-quality mayonnaise with finely grated raw garlic, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. While it won’t have the same mellow sweetness as garlic confit, it’s still a delicious option.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Confit Aioli:

• 10 garlic cloves
• 1 cup olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 egg
• Pinch of flaky sea salt

For the Sandwich:

• 2 slices focaccia (pesto focaccia recommended)
• 1 ball of burrata
• 4 tbsp green basil pesto
• 75g Italian mortadella, thinly sliced
• 25g wild rocket (arugula)
• 2 tbsp garlic aioli (or substitute with good-quality mayo)

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Directions

Garlic Confit Aioli Magic:

1. Preheat the oven to 120°C (250°F).
2. Place peeled garlic cloves in a small ovenproof dish and submerge them in olive oil.
3. Bake for about 2 hours until soft and golden.
4. Transfer 10 garlic confit cloves, 1 cup of the infused oil, lemon juice, egg, and salt into a jar or container suitable for an immersion blender.
5. Blend until smooth and thick. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Assembling the Ultimate Sandwich:

1. Cut the focaccia into two slices. Drizzle the cut side with olive oil and toast in a pan until golden, about 5 minutes.
2. Spread a generous layer of garlic aioli on one side of the focaccia.
3. Add a spoonful of basil pesto, followed by the thinly curled slices of mortadella.
4. Tear the burrata and spread it evenly over the sandwich. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Top with fresh rocket and close the sandwich.
6. Slice in half and enjoy this indulgent creation.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving Estimate)

• Calories: ~550 kcal
• Protein: ~22g
• Carbohydrates: ~45g
• Fat: ~32g
• Saturated Fat: ~12g
• Fiber: ~3g
• Sugar: ~2g
• Sodium: ~900mg

Serving Suggestions: How to Enjoy This Sandwich to the Fullest

Best Side Dishes to Pair With It

This sandwich is satisfying on its own, but if you’re looking to round out your meal, here are some great pairings:

• Crispy Parmesan Truffle Fries – The salty, umami-packed fries complement the creamy burrata beautifully.
• Tomato & Basil Salad – A fresh, tangy salad balances out the richness.
• Marinated Olives & Pickles – Their briny flavor cuts through the fat and adds an extra punch.
• Chilled White Wine or Sparkling Water – A crisp white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc) enhances the flavors, or for a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with lemon works well.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Make This Sandwich Ahead of Time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components in advance. The garlic confit aioli lasts up to 5 days in the fridge, and you can toast the focaccia ahead of time. However, it’s best to assemble the sandwich just before serving to maintain its texture.

2. What Other Breads Work Besides Focaccia?

If focaccia isn’t available, here are some great alternatives:

• Ciabatta – Light and airy with a great crust.
• Baguette – Offers a satisfying crunch.
• Sourdough – Adds a tangy complexity.
• Brioche – If you prefer a softer, slightly sweet contrast.

3. Can I Make It Vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the mortadella with grilled zucchini, roasted red peppers, or marinated eggplant for a delicious vegetarian version.

4. What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?

If you somehow have leftovers, wrap the sandwich tightly in parchment paper and store it in the fridge. However, be aware that burrata is best enjoyed fresh, so the texture may change if stored overnight.

5. Can I Use Store-Bought Pesto?

Absolutely. While homemade basil pesto offers the freshest flavor, a good-quality store-bought pesto works perfectly for convenience. If using a jarred pesto, opt for the fresh refrigerated versions rather than shelf-stable ones for the best taste.

Final Thoughts: Why This Sandwich Deserves a Spot in Your Recipe Rotation

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a well-made sandwich, and this Mortadella & Burrata Focaccia Sandwich proves that simple ingredients can create a restaurant-quality meal. From the luxurious burrata and the salty mortadella to the herbaceous pesto and silky garlic confit aioli, every bite is packed with richness, freshness, and depth of flavor.

Whether you’re making it for yourself, serving it at a gathering, or simply treating yourself to a gourmet lunch, this sandwich delivers a next-level eating experience. Give it a try, and it just might become your new favorite sandwich!