When it comes to comforting, indulgent meals that satisfy our cravings, few options compare to a rich and creamy pasta dish loaded with ricotta cheese. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and satisfying, ricotta pasta is a versatile canvas just waiting for your creative touch. In this article, we’ll dive into 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the best of what ricotta has to offer, from classic combinations like lemon and spinach to bold and spicy creations featuring chili flakes.
From comforting bakes to quick and easy skillet meals, these creamy ricotta pasta recipes are sure to become new favorites in your household. So grab a fork and get ready to indulge in a world of creamy goodness – let’s start cooking!
Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach
Brighten up a weeknight dinner with this creamy and citrusy pasta dish, featuring tender spinach and a tangy lemon ricotta sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. spaghetti
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese and lemon juice until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted (about 1 minute).
4. Combine cooked spaghetti, reserved pasta water, and lemon ricotta mixture in the skillet. Toss to combine, adding more pasta water if needed.
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Ricotta Pasta
This classic Italian-inspired pasta dish combines the richness of ricotta cheese with the pungency of garlic and the warmth of butter. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is quick, easy, and utterly delicious.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or fettuccine)
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Stir in the ricotta cheese until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the garlic-butter-ricotta mixture until well combined.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Ricotta Pasta
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines the flavors of fresh tomatoes, basil, and creamy ricotta cheese with al dente pasta for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they release their juices.
3. Stir in chopped basil leaves, garlic (if using), and ricotta cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked pasta and tomato-basil sauce. Toss until the pasta is well coated.
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Ricotta Pasta with Chili Flakes
A creamy pasta dish infused with a spicy kick from chili flakes, perfect for those who like a little heat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp. olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 tsp. chili flakes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, and chili flakes. Mix well to combine.
3. Add the reserved pasta water to the ricotta mixture and stir until smooth.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the ricotta mixture and toss until well coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mushroom and Ricotta Pasta Bake
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the richness of ricotta cheese, all wrapped up in a satisfying pasta bake. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (e.g., penne, fusilli, or rigatoni)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, mushroom mixture, ricotta cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ricotta and Pea Pasta with Mint
This refreshing pasta dish combines the sweetness of peas, creaminess of ricotta, and brightness of mint for a light and satisfying meal. Perfect for springtime or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add peas and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in ricotta cheese and chopped mint leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, pea mixture, and reserved pasta water (if needed). Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy dish that combines the best of Italian flavors. This recipe is a twist on the classic Alfredo, adding a tangy and velvety ricotta sauce to create a truly indulgent meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked fettuccine pasta and ricotta Alfredo sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Garlic Ricotta Pasta
Roasted Garlic Ricotta Pasta Recipe
Summary: This recipe combines roasted garlic’s deep flavor with creamy ricotta and al dente pasta for a comforting, satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, fettuccine)
– 3-4 cloves of garlic
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap the garlic cloves in foil and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until soft and mashed.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
4. In a large skillet, combine roasted garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, or until the garlic is well combined with the oil.
5. Add ricotta cheese and stir until smooth and creamy. If too thick, add some reserved pasta water.
6. Combine cooked pasta and garlic-ricotta mixture. Toss to coat evenly.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ricotta Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This recipe combines the richness of ricotta cheese with the tanginess of sun-dried tomatoes, creating a deliciously simple pasta dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine or spaghetti)
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 cups sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Mix well to combine.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the ricotta mixture and toss until coated evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Ricotta Pasta with Pine Nuts
This classic pasta dish combines the richness of ricotta cheese, the vibrancy of pesto, and the crunch of pine nuts for a truly satisfying meal. With its simplicity and bold flavors, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice
– 1 cup (250g) ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup (60g) pesto
– 1/4 cup (30g) pine nuts, toasted
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese and pesto. Mix well until smooth.
3. Add cooked pasta to the ricotta mixture and toss until coated.
4. Stir in toasted pine nuts. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ricotta and Sausage Pasta Skillet
A hearty, one-pot meal that combines the creamy richness of ricotta with the savory flavor of sausage and pasta. This skillet is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and add the onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the ricotta cheese and chicken broth until smooth. Add the cooked pasta and sausage back into the skillet, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach Artichoke Ricotta Pasta
A creamy and flavorful pasta dish that combines the richness of ricotta with the savory taste of spinach and artichokes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/4 cup marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, spinach, artichoke hearts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well to combine.
3. When pasta is cooked, drain and return it to the pot. Add the ricotta mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ricotta Pasta with Roasted Vegetables
A creamy and flavorful pasta dish that combines the richness of ricotta cheese with the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 cups mixed roasted vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add roasted vegetables and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, and reserved pasta water. Mix until smooth and creamy.
5. Add the roasted vegetables to the pasta mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Pepper Ricotta Pasta
Brighten up your pasta night with this creamy and zesty Lemon Pepper Ricotta Pasta recipe!
Ingredients:
• 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g. spaghetti, linguine)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tsp black pepper
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in ricotta cheese until smooth. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and black pepper. Season with salt to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and ricotta sauce. Toss until well coated.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your creamy and zesty Lemon Pepper Ricotta Pasta!
Ricotta Pasta with Caramelized Onions
Ricotta Pasta with Caramelized Onions: A Creamy, Sweet, and Savory Combination
This recipe combines the richness of ricotta cheese with the deep sweetness of caramelized onions, all wrapped up in a comforting pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re dark golden brown and caramelized.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired creaminess.
4. Add the caramelized onions to the pasta mixture and stir until they’re evenly distributed.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Baked Ricotta Pasta with Mozzarella
This comforting pasta dish combines the richness of ricotta cheese with the creaminess of mozzarella, all wrapped up in a satisfying baked package. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
4. Add cooked pasta to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle with additional mozzarella cheese (if desired).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the pasta is heated through.
7. Sprinkle with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ricotta Pasta with Crispy Prosciutto
This Italian-inspired dish combines the richness of ricotta cheese with the crunch of crispy prosciutto, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal. Serve as a main course or as a comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (e.g., fettuccine or pappardelle)
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6 slices prosciutto di Parma, thinly sliced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine ricotta cheese, butter, salt, and pepper. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until smooth and creamy (about 5 minutes).
3. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Arrange prosciutto slices on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
5. Combine cooked pasta and ricotta sauce. Toss to combine.
6. Top with crispy prosciutto and sprinkle with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ricotta and Butternut Squash Pasta
This recipe combines the creamy richness of ricotta with the sweet, nutty flavor of roasted butternut squash. A perfect autumnal dish that’s easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or sage leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add roasted squash and stir to combine.
4. Stir in ricotta cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and squash mixture. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ricotta Pasta with Fresh Herbs
This creamy pasta dish is a perfect showcase for fresh herbs, combining the richness of ricotta cheese with the brightness of parsley and basil. A quick and easy meal that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, olive oil, garlic, parsley, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Drain cooked pasta and toss with the ricotta mixture until well combined.
4. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ricotta Pasta with Lemon Zest and Parmesan
Brighten up your pasta game with this creamy, citrusy, and cheesy dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
– 12 oz. pasta of choice (e.g., spaghetti or fettuccine)
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese. Mix well to combine.
3. Add lemon zest to the ricotta mixture and mix until fully incorporated.
4. When the pasta is done, drain it and add to the bowl with the ricotta mixture.
5. Toss the pasta in the ricotta sauce until well coated.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (depending on pasta cooking time)
Summary
Elevate your pasta game with these 20 creamy ricotta recipes, perfect for every occasion! From classic Alfredo to bold and spicy options, there’s something for everyone. Try pairing ricotta with bright lemon and spinach, savory garlic butter, or earthy mushrooms. Add some heat with chili flakes or go green with mint and peas. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting bake or a quick skillet dinner, these recipes will satisfy your cravings. Get creative and make them your own with sun-dried tomatoes, prosciutto, or fresh herbs.
