This Easy Ricotta Pasta is the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights. With a creamy ricotta sauce, fresh lemon zest, and Parmesan, it’s quick to make, ready in just 20 minutes, and easily customizable. Whether you’re making it vegetarian or adding your favorite protein, this dish is bound to become a regular in your kitchen for its simplicity and creamy texture.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

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

• Salted water (for boiling)

For the Ricotta Sauce:

• 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• Zest and juice of 1 lemon

• ¼ cup reserved pasta water (helps emulsify the sauce)

• Salt and pepper (to taste)

• Optional: Crushed red pepper flakes, chopped basil, or baby spinach

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water according to the package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining and rinsing the pasta.

2. Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant (be careful not to burn it).

3. Make the sauce: Add ricotta cheese, Parmesan, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the pan. Stir to combine and create a creamy sauce.

4. Emulsify the sauce: Gradually add the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Stir continuously until it reaches your desired consistency.

5. Combine the pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing gently to coat. If using spinach or other add-ins, stir them in now until just wilted.

6. Serve: Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan, fresh basil, or a drizzle of olive oil.

Nutrients (Estimated per serving)

• Calories: 450 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 50g

• Protein: 15g

• Fat: 22g

  • Saturated Fat: 7g

• Cholesterol: 35mg

• Sodium: 420mg

• Potassium: 500mg

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 3g

• Vitamin A: 200 IU

• Vitamin C: 6mg

• Calcium: 150mg

• Iron: 2mg

Why Easy Ricotta Pasta Is So Popular

Easy Ricotta Pasta has gained popularity for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to make a satisfying meal in less than 30 minutes. The creamy ricotta sauce is rich and indulgent, yet simple enough to allow the flavors to shine through without requiring an extensive list of ingredients or complicated techniques.

Second, the flavor combination of ricotta, Parmesan, and lemon creates a beautiful balance between creamy, tangy, and savory. The fresh lemon zest adds a bright note that cuts through the richness of the cheese, while the Parmesan brings a nutty, umami flavor to the sauce. This balance of flavors makes the dish satisfying without being too heavy.

Another reason for the popularity of this dish is its adaptability. While the basic recipe calls for pasta and ricotta sauce, you can easily modify it based on your dietary needs or flavor preferences. Whether you want to make it vegetarian by adding spinach or mushrooms, or add protein such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage, this dish is versatile enough to suit everyone at the table. You can also change the type of pasta you use, whether it’s penne, rigatoni, spaghetti, or any other shape you prefer.

How to Make Easy Ricotta Pasta: Step-by-Step Guide

Making Easy Ricotta Pasta is a breeze, with minimal prep and cooking time required. Here’s a breakdown of how to prepare it:

1. Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling the pasta in salted water according to the package instructions. Don’t forget to reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining and rinsing the pasta. This starchy water will help emulsify the sauce, ensuring it clings to the pasta beautifully.

2. Prepare the Sauce: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté it for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

3. Make the Sauce: Once the garlic is fragrant, add the ricotta cheese, Parmesan, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the skillet. Stir everything together, creating a creamy, smooth sauce that coats the back of a spoon. The ricotta adds a rich creaminess, while the Parmesan contributes depth and a savory note.

4. Emulsify the Sauce: Gradually add the reserved pasta water to the sauce, stirring continuously to combine. The pasta water will help thin out the sauce and make it silky, allowing it to cling perfectly to the pasta. Keep adding the water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the pasta with the creamy sauce. If you’re adding spinach or other greens, now is the time to stir them in until just wilted.

6. Serve: Serve the pasta immediately, topped with extra Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, and fresh basil if desired. This dish is best enjoyed warm, with all the creamy sauce and flavors perfectly combined.

Customizing Your Easy Ricotta Pasta

One of the best things about Easy Ricotta Pasta is how easily it can be customized. Here are a few ideas to make the dish your own:

• Add Protein: To make the dish more substantial, add a source of protein. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage would all pair well with the creamy ricotta sauce. For a plant-based option, try adding chickpeas or tofu for a protein-packed meal.

• Add Vegetables: Incorporating vegetables into the dish can boost its nutritional value and add extra flavor. You can stir in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added texture and color. Roasted tomatoes or broccoli would also make great additions.

• Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce or on top of the finished dish. This will add a subtle spicy kick that complements the creaminess of the ricotta.

• Herbs and Garnishes: Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme can elevate the flavor of the dish. Add them right before serving for a fresh, aromatic touch. A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of lemon zest can also brighten up the dish.

• Make It Gluten-Free: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, simply swap out the pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety, such as rice pasta or gluten-free penne.

Nutritional Benefits of Easy Ricotta Pasta

Easy Ricotta Pasta is a balanced dish that provides a good combination of carbohydrates, protein, and fats. The pasta gives you the energy you need, while the ricotta cheese provides a creamy base that is relatively lower in fat compared to heavy cream-based sauces. The Parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami flavor, and the fresh lemon zest provides a burst of vitamin C.

The dish is also a good source of fiber, thanks to the pasta and any added vegetables. With 15 grams of protein per serving, this pasta is a filling and satisfying meal that can keep you full for longer. The 22 grams of fat mainly come from olive oil and cheese, providing healthy fats that help with nutrient absorption.

Although the dish is not low-calorie, it is a well-rounded meal that offers essential nutrients and a satisfying flavor. The combination of ricotta, Parmesan, and olive oil ensures that the pasta is rich and flavorful without feeling overly indulgent.

Serving Suggestions for Easy Ricotta Pasta

Easy Ricotta Pasta is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides to round out the meal. Here are a few ideas for side dishes to serve with your pasta:

• Side Salad: A crisp, refreshing green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the pasta. Try mixing arugula, spinach, or mixed greens with cherry tomatoes and a light dressing.

• Garlic Bread: For an extra comforting meal, serve your pasta with a slice of garlic bread or toasted baguette. The crunchy, garlicky bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy ricotta sauce.

• Grilled Vegetables: Grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus make a great accompaniment. They add a smoky flavor that complements the creamy pasta.

Conclusion: Why You Should Try Easy Ricotta Pasta

In conclusion, Easy Ricotta Pasta is a creamy, comforting, and customizable dish that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner. Its simplicity, quick cooking time, and rich flavors make it a standout recipe that’s bound to become a regular in your kitchen. Whether you keep it simple with just pasta and ricotta or add vegetables and protein, this dish is versatile and satisfying for every palate. Try it today and enjoy a delicious, creamy pasta that’s ready in no time!