Go Back
–+ servings
Ricotta Pasta

Creamy Ricotta Pasta in 20 Minutes for a Cozy Night In

This Easy Ricotta Pasta is a delightful meal ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for a cozy night in.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Pasta Choose your favorite shape; gluten-free options available.
For the Cream Sauce
  • 1 cup Whole-milk Ricotta Cheese Can use plant-based for dairy-free option.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Use a milder oil if desired.
  • 2-3 cloves Garlic Minced, adjust amount based on preference.
  • 0.5 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Vegan option available.
  • 1 each Lemon Zest and Juice Fresh lemons yield the best results.
  • 0.5 cup Pasta Water Reserve for adjusting sauce consistency.
  • to taste Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • to taste Black Pepper Freshly cracked preferred.
  • optional Crushed Red Pepper Flakes For those who enjoy heat.
For the Garnish
  • 1 cup Fresh Basil Adds freshness and color.
  • 2 cups Baby Spinach Toss in at the end for a nutritional boost.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Large Skillet
  • tongs

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Fill a large pot with water, add salt, and bring to a boil. Cook pasta for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, drain pasta, and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Garlic: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Prepare the Sauce: Stir in ricotta and Parmesan, along with lemon zest and juice. Mix to form a creamy sauce.
  4. Adjust Consistency: Gradually add reserved pasta water, stirring until desired creamy consistency is reached.
  5. Season & Combine: Add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to the sauce. Toss drained pasta in the sauce until well-coated.
  6. Serve: Plate the pasta warm, garnishing with basil leaves and extra grated Parmesan if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 18gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, serve immediately and use reserved pasta water to maintain sauce consistency when reheating.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!