Ricotta cheese, a fresh Italian cheese known for its creamy texture and mild flavor, is a versatile ingredient that can elevate any pasta dish. From stuffed pastas like ravioli and manicotti to baked dishes like lasagna and ziti, ricotta adds a rich, creamy element that perfectly complements a variety of flavors. This collection of 25 recipes showcases the best ways to incorporate ricotta cheese into your pasta meals, offering a range of dishes that are both delicious and easy to prepare.
In this compilation, you’ll find recipes that highlight ricotta’s ability to blend seamlessly with other ingredients, creating luscious sauces, hearty fillings, and delectable toppings. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish for entertaining, these ricotta cheese pasta recipes provide plenty of inspiration. Each recipe offers a unique twist, making use of fresh herbs, vibrant vegetables, and flavorful sauces to enhance the creamy goodness of ricotta. Dive in and discover new favorite dishes that are sure to become staples in your kitchen.
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1. Whipped Ricotta Pasta
Courtesy delish
Whipped Ricotta Pasta is a creamy and delicious dish featuring a blend of smooth ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and garlic. Tossed with al dente pasta and topped with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil, this recipe offers a light yet flavorful meal perfect for any occasion. Ideal for a quick and easy dinner, this pasta dish is both comforting and elegant, sure to impress your taste buds with its rich and zesty flavors.
“Did you know? Ricotta cheese can transform any pasta dish into a creamy masterpiece. Its mild flavor and smooth texture make it perfect for creating luscious sauces, fillings, and toppings that enhance your pasta meals.”
2. Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Asparagus
Courtesy bonappetit
This Pasta is a fresh and zesty dish featuring tender asparagus, al dente pasta, and a creamy lemon-parmesan sauce. This quick and easy recipe combines the brightness of lemon zest with the savory richness of Parmesan cheese, creating a delightful springtime meal. Perfect for a light dinner or a flavorful lunch, this pasta dish offers a delicious way to enjoy seasonal asparagus with a burst of citrusy goodness.
3. Mushroom Ricotta Pasta Bake
Courtesy epicurious
Creamy Mushroom Lasagna is a luxurious vegetarian dish featuring layers of sautéed mushrooms, a rich béchamel sauce, and tender lasagna noodles. This recipe combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with creamy ricotta and a blend of cheeses, resulting in a comforting and indulgent meal. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner, this lasagna is a delightful twist on a classic Italian favorite, offering depth and richness in every bite.
4. Ricotta and Spinach Cannelloni
Courtesy jamieoliver
Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni is a comforting Italian dish featuring pasta tubes stuffed with a creamy spinach and ricotta mixture. Topped with a rich tomato sauce and melted cheese, this baked dish is both hearty and flavorful. Perfect for a family dinner or special occasion, it combines the savory taste of spinach with the smoothness of ricotta, creating a delicious and satisfying meal. Enjoy the classic combination of flavors in every bite of this traditional Italian favorite.
5. Ricotta Gnocchi with Sage Butter
Courtesy foodandwine
Beet Gnocchi with Walnut-Sage Butter is a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring homemade beetroot gnocchi tossed in a rich walnut and sage butter sauce. The earthy sweetness of beets pairs beautifully with the nutty, aromatic sauce, creating a unique and satisfying meal. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a special dinner at home, this recipe combines striking colors and delicious flavors for a memorable dining experience. Enjoy the perfect balance of textures and tastes in every bite!
6. Creamy Ricotta Pappardelle
Courtesy thekitchn
Lemon Ricotta Pasta is a quick and delightful dish featuring a creamy ricotta sauce brightened with fresh lemon zest and juice. Tossed with al dente pasta and topped with parmesan and fresh basil, this meal is light, refreshing, and perfect for a weeknight dinner. The combination of tangy lemon and smooth ricotta creates a beautifully balanced flavor that is both comforting and vibrant. Enjoy a taste of elegance with minimal effort in this easy-to-make pasta dish.
“Did you know? Ricotta cheese isn’t just delicious; it’s also a great source of protein. Adding it to your pasta dishes not only enhances the taste but also boosts the nutritional value, making your meals more satisfying and healthy.”
7. Ricotta and Lemon Tagliatelle
Courtesy themothercooker
Lemon and Ricotta Tagliatelle is a fresh and creamy pasta dish perfect for a light dinner. The recipe features tagliatelle tossed in a sauce made from ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and juice, creating a vibrant and tangy flavor profile. Finished with a sprinkle of parmesan and a touch of black pepper, this dish is both simple and elegant. It’s ideal for those looking for a quick yet sophisticated meal that brings out the best of citrus and creamy textures.
8. Tomato Basil Ricotta Pasta
Courtesy cookieandkate
Creamy Cherry Tomato & Summer Squash Pasta is a delightful summer dish that combines fresh cherry tomatoes, tender summer squash, and a luscious, creamy sauce. The vegetables are sautéed until tender and mixed with a blend of cream and parmesan, creating a rich and satisfying meal. This pasta is perfect for showcasing seasonal produce and offers a light yet flavorful option for warm weather dining. Enjoy the harmonious blend of creamy and fresh flavors in every bite!
9. Baked Ziti with Ricotta Cheese and Roasted Vegetables
Courtesy cookieandkate
Baked Ziti with Ricotta Cheese and Roasted Vegetables is a comforting, vegetarian dish that combines pasta, roasted vegetables, and a rich tomato sauce. Layered with creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese, this ziti is baked until bubbly and golden. Perfect for a family dinner, it offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors, making it a satisfying and wholesome meal. Enjoy the creamy cheese, tender vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta in every bite.
10. Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti
Courtesy simplyrecipes
Cheese-Stuffed Manicotti is a delicious and comforting Italian dish featuring pasta tubes filled with a rich mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese. Topped with marinara sauce and baked until bubbly and golden, this recipe is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. The creamy cheese filling and flavorful sauce create a satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone. Enjoy the classic flavors of Italian cuisine with this easy-to-make and hearty dish.
11. Ricotta and Roasted Pepper Pasta
Courtesy throughthefibrofog
Ricotta and Roasted Red Pepper Pasta is a flavorful, creamy dish combining the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the richness of ricotta cheese. Tossed with al dente pasta and seasoned with garlic and basil, this recipe creates a delightful blend of textures and tastes. Perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner, it offers a delicious way to enjoy a simple yet satisfying meal. Enjoy the harmonious flavors in every bite!
“Did you know? Incorporating ricotta in dishes like Lemon Ricotta Pasta adds a light, refreshing touch perfect for spring and summer meals. The combination of creamy ricotta with bright lemon zest and fresh herbs creates a delightful, seasonal flavor.”
12. Green Goddess Ricotta Pasta
Courtesy eatingwell
Green Goddess Ricotta Pasta is a vibrant and healthy dish that combines creamy ricotta with fresh herbs and greens. The sauce is made with spinach, basil, parsley, and lemon, creating a bright and flavorful blend that’s tossed with your favorite pasta. This recipe offers a nutritious and delicious meal, perfect for a quick dinner that’s both satisfying and full of fresh ingredients. Enjoy the rich, herby flavors in every bite!
13. Ricotta Alfredo Pasta
Courtesy cookingclassy
Classic Alfredo Sauce is a rich and creamy Italian sauce made from butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. This luxurious sauce is perfect for tossing with fettuccine or your favorite pasta, creating a comforting and indulgent meal. It’s easy to make and offers a deliciously smooth texture with a savory, cheesy flavor. Ideal for a quick yet elegant dinner, this Alfredo sauce recipe is a timeless favorite for pasta lovers.
14. Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Sauce
Courtesy gimmesomeoven
This Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Sauce elevates the classic Alfredo by blending butter, heavy cream, freshly grated Parmesan, and smooth ricotta cheese. The addition of ricotta makes the sauce extra creamy and rich, perfect for coating your favorite pasta. Seasoned with garlic and a hint of nutmeg, this sauce offers a savory, cheesy flavor with a delightful twist. Ideal for a comforting and indulgent meal, this recipe brings a restaurant-quality dish to your home kitchen.
15. Baked Rigatoni with Eggplant, Tomatoes, and Ricotta
Courtesy foodandwine
Baked Rigatoni with Eggplant, Tomatoes, and Ricotta is a hearty and flavorful dish featuring layers of tender rigatoni, roasted eggplant, and juicy tomatoes. Combined with creamy ricotta and topped with melted mozzarella, this baked pasta dish is perfect for a comforting dinner. The blend of vegetables and cheeses creates a rich, satisfying meal that’s sure to please. Enjoy this delicious and wholesome recipe for a delightful twist on classic baked pasta.
16. White Pesto Pasta with Ricotta
Courtesy bonappetit
White Pesto Pasta with Ricotta is a creamy and delicious dish featuring a unique white pesto sauce made with ricotta, Parmesan, and toasted walnuts. The sauce is blended until smooth and tossed with al dente pasta, creating a rich and flavorful meal. Finished with fresh herbs and lemon zest, this pasta is both refreshing and indulgent, perfect for a quick yet sophisticated dinner. Enjoy the creamy texture and nutty flavor in every bite!
“Did you know? Ricotta is a classic filling for stuffed pastas like manicotti, cannelloni, and ravioli. It pairs wonderfully with ingredients like spinach, herbs, and a hint of nutmeg, creating a comforting and delicious meal that’s sure to impress.”
17. Lemon Garlic Ricotta Orzo
Courtesy twopeasandtheirpod
Lemon Ricotta Pasta is a light and refreshing dish combining creamy ricotta cheese, zesty lemon, and fresh herbs. Tossed with al dente pasta, the sauce is enhanced with garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan for a delightful balance of flavors. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, offering a creamy, tangy, and satisfying meal. Enjoy the vibrant and fresh taste of lemon with the smoothness of ricotta in every bite!
18. Baked Polenta with Tomato Sauce and Ricotta
Courtesy epicurious
Baked Polenta with Tomato Sauce and Ricotta is a comforting and flavorful dish. Creamy polenta is baked and topped with a rich tomato sauce, dollops of ricotta cheese, and fresh basil. This hearty meal is perfect for a cozy dinner, offering a delightful combination of textures and tastes. The creamy ricotta complements the tangy tomato sauce, while the baked polenta provides a satisfying base.
19. Creamy Ricotta Kale Pasta
Courtesy cooklikeachampion
Creamy Ricotta Kale Pasta is a delightful dish featuring tender pasta mixed with a creamy ricotta sauce and fresh kale. Enhanced with garlic, lemon zest, and Parmesan, this meal offers a perfect balance of flavors. The creamy ricotta and the slightly bitter kale create a harmonious and satisfying combination. Ideal for a quick and nutritious dinner, this recipe brings together comfort and freshness in every bite.
20. Red and Green Stuffed Shells
Courtesy thepioneerwoman
Red and Green Stuffed Shells are a festive and delicious dish perfect for any occasion. Large pasta shells are filled with a creamy ricotta and spinach mixture, then topped with both marinara and pesto sauces. Baked until bubbly, this dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and colors, making it a standout meal. Ideal for family dinners or holiday gatherings, these stuffed shells are sure to impress with their rich taste and beautiful presentation.
21. Quick and Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Courtesy theburntbuttertable
Quick and Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta is a vibrant and creamy dish perfect for a speedy meal. This recipe features tender pasta tossed with a mixture of ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and juice, creating a light yet flavorful sauce. Finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh basil, this pasta is both refreshing and satisfying. Ideal for busy weeknights, it offers a delicious blend of citrusy and creamy flavors in every bite.
“Did you know? Adding ricotta to baked pasta dishes like lasagna or ziti adds a rich, creamy layer that perfectly balances the acidity of tomato sauce and complements the melted mozzarella and Parmesan, making for an indulgent, hearty meal.”
22. Zesty Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Courtesy feelgoodfoodie
Lemon Ricotta Pasta is a light and flavorful dish featuring a creamy sauce made from ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and juice. Tossed with your favorite pasta, it’s seasoned with garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan, creating a perfect balance of tangy and savory flavors. This easy and refreshing recipe is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a bright and zesty lunch.
23. One-Pot Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Ricotta
Courtesy halfbakedharvest
One-Pot Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is a quick and flavorful dish featuring pasta cooked with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and spinach in a creamy sauce. This easy recipe combines the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with a rich, creamy texture, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. The one-pot method ensures minimal cleanup, making it a convenient and delicious meal option.
24. Pasta with Pesto Genovese
Courtesy smittenkitchen
Pasta with Pesto Genovese is a classic Italian dish featuring pasta tossed in a vibrant basil pesto sauce. The pesto is made from fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil, blended into a smooth, aromatic sauce. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, bringing the fresh taste of basil and the richness of Parmesan together in every bite.
“Did you know? You can whip up a quick and creamy pasta sauce by mixing ricotta with a bit of pasta water, lemon zest, and garlic. It’s an easy way to elevate a simple pasta dish, adding a deliciously smooth and tangy flavor.”
25. Creamy Leek and Mushroom Pasta with Ricotta
Courtesy thenaturalnurturer
Creamy Leek and Mushroom Pasta is a quick, 15-minute dish that combines sautéed leeks and mushrooms with a creamy sauce. This vegetarian meal is both rich and satisfying, featuring the earthy flavors of mushrooms and the subtle sweetness of leeks. Perfect for a speedy weeknight dinner, it’s easy to prepare and full of comforting, delicious flavors.
FAQs
1. What types of pasta pair well with ricotta cheese?
Ricotta cheese pairs well with a variety of pasta types, including lasagna, ziti, manicotti, ravioli, and tagliatelle. Its creamy texture complements both long and short pasta shapes, making it versatile for different recipes.
2. How can I make a quick ricotta pasta sauce?
To make a quick ricotta pasta sauce, mix ricotta cheese with pasta water, lemon zest, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. This creates a creamy, tangy sauce that can be tossed with your favorite pasta for a delicious and easy meal.
3. Can ricotta cheese be used in baked pasta dishes?
Yes, ricotta cheese is commonly used in baked pasta dishes like lasagna and baked ziti. It adds a creamy layer that balances the acidity of tomato sauce and enhances the overall flavor with its rich texture.
4. What vegetables pair well with ricotta in pasta dishes?
Vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, sun-dried tomatoes, and mushrooms pair excellently with ricotta in pasta dishes. These vegetables add flavor, texture, and nutritional value, complementing the creamy ricotta.
5. Can ricotta be used in sweet pasta recipes?
Yes, ricotta cheese can be used in sweet pasta recipes, such as ricotta-stuffed dessert ravioli. It provides a creamy and slightly sweet filling that works well with desserts, offering a unique twist on traditional pasta dishes.
6. Is ricotta cheese a good source of protein?
Yes, ricotta cheese is a good source of protein. Incorporating it into your pasta dishes not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional value, making your meals more satisfying.
7. How do I store leftover ricotta pasta?
Store leftover ricotta pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or water to maintain the creamy texture and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
8. Can I make ricotta pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can make ricotta pasta ahead of time. Prepare the dish as instructed, then store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently, adding a little milk or water if necessary to maintain the creamy consistency.
9. How do I make a vegetarian ricotta pasta dish more flavorful?
To make a vegetarian ricotta pasta dish more flavorful, add fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme. You can also incorporate roasted vegetables, garlic, lemon zest, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra taste.
10. Can ricotta cheese be used in pesto sauce?
Yes, adding ricotta cheese to pesto sauce creates a creamy texture and mellows the strong flavors of basil and garlic. This combination makes for a balanced and delicious sauce that pairs well with pasta.
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