Irresistibly Easy Ricotta Pasta Recipe: Creamy & Quick Comfort Recipe
This Irresistibly Easy Ricotta Pasta recipe delivers a creamy, comforting meal that’s quick to prepare. Featuring a sauce made from whole-milk ricotta, parmesan, fresh lemon zest, and juice, this dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner. The addition of sautéed garlic, optional crushed red pepper flakes, and fresh basil elevate the flavors, while the reserved pasta water creates a luscious, silky sauce that coats every bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pasta
- 8 oz Pasta – Choose your favorite shape; gluten-free pasta works wonderfully too!
For the Sauce
- 15 oz Whole-milk Ricotta Cheese – Or substitute with plant-based ricotta for a dairy-free option.
- 2 tablespoon Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing garlic.
- 2 cloves Garlic – Minced; adjust based on your love for garlic!
- ½ cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese – Use vegan Parmesan for a dairy-free twist.
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest – Brightens the sauce.
- 2 tablespoon Lemon Juice – Fresh lemons truly make a difference!
- ½ cup Pasta Water – Key for achieving that silky sauce.
- Salt – To taste, for seasoning.
- Black Pepper – To taste, for seasoning.
Optional Additions
- ¼ teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – For a little heat.
- ¼ cup Fresh Basil – Great for garnish.
- 2 cups Baby Spinach – Stir it in at the end for wilted greens.
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your favorite pasta and cook until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in the whole-milk ricotta cheese and freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Add lemon zest and juice, mixing until well combined into a creamy sauce.
- Create Creaminess: Gradually incorporate the reserved ½ cup pasta water into the sauce, stirring continuously until you reach your desired level of creaminess and a silky texture.
- Season the Sauce: Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, and if desired, crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine all flavors.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the drained pasta directly into the creamy sauce in the skillet. Toss thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated evenly.
- Add Optional Greens: If using, stir in baby spinach now and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
- Serve and Garnish: Plate your Easy Ricotta Pasta while it’s warm. Garnish with fresh basil leaves or extra Parmesan cheese as desired for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Pasta can be frozen for up to 2 months; ensure proper storage to maintain quality.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute ricotta and parmesan with plant-based alternatives.
- Adjust garlic and red pepper flakes quantities based on personal taste preferences.
- Reserve pasta water carefully to create the perfect sauce consistency.
Keywords: ricotta pasta, creamy pasta, easy pasta recipe, quick comfort food, Italian pasta, lemon ricotta sauce, garlic pasta, weeknight dinner, creamy sauce pasta
