Easy Ricotta Pasta Recipe That’s Creamy, Quick & Irresistible

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a game-changer for busy nights when you want something creamy, comforting, and quick to make. The ricotta and Parmesan create a velvety sauce that clings to each piece of pasta, while the garlic and lemon add a burst of flavor that takes it to the next level. It’s the perfect balance of light and rich, and you can customize it with extra ingredients like fresh basil or spinach for added flavor. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a satisfying meal on the table!

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti)

• Salted water for boiling

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• Zest and juice of 1 lemon

• ¼ cup reserved pasta water

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, fresh basil, baby spinach

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

Directions

1. Cook the pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.

2. Sauté the garlic in olive oil over medium heat for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.

3. Add ricotta, Parmesan, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the skillet. Stir to combine into a creamy sauce.

4. Gradually add reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency to your liking.

5. Season with salt, pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

6. Toss the drained pasta into the sauce, mixing until fully coated.

7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil or extra Parmesan, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Total Time: 20 minutes

• Servings: 4 servings

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Toss in some spinach, peas, or zucchini for an extra veggie boost.

• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage to make this dish heartier.

• Lemon Twist: For more citrus flavor, increase the amount of lemon zest and juice.

• Spicy: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a bit of heat to the creamy sauce.

• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme to enhance the flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheat: To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop with a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen up the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti, fusilli, or rigatoni.

2. Can I use low-fat ricotta cheese?

Yes, you can use low-fat ricotta if you prefer a lighter version of the dish, but the sauce may not be as creamy.

3. How can I make this dish vegan?

You can swap the ricotta and Parmesan for dairy-free alternatives. Use a plant-based pasta as well for a fully vegan meal.

4. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta.

5. How do I make the pasta sauce creamier?

For a creamier sauce, add a bit more ricotta or a spoonful of heavy cream.

6. Can I freeze the leftovers?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the leftover sauce. Just reheat with a splash of milk or pasta water.

7. What should I do if the sauce is too thick?

If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add more pasta water or a little milk to loosen it up.

8. Can I use store-bought pesto in this recipe?

Yes, adding store-bought pesto to the sauce can give it a unique twist with extra flavor.

9. Can I add meat to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, sausage, or shrimp would be great additions to this creamy pasta.

10. How do I make the pasta spicy?

Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat or use a spicy sausage for an extra kick.

Conclusion

This Easy Ricotta Pasta is the perfect meal for when you need a comforting dish in a hurry. With its creamy ricotta sauce, bright lemon zest, and a touch of garlic, it’s sure to become a go-to in your weeknight dinner rotation. Plus, with its versatility, you can easily customize it to your taste. Whether you keep it simple or add a bit of spice, this pasta will always hit the spot!

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