This creamy ricotta pasta is a warm hug in a bowl! Made with smooth ricotta cheese, fresh herbs, and a sprinkle of parmesan, it’s comforting and oh-so-easy to whip up.
You can have this ready in less than 20 minutes! Perfect for those busy nights when you want something delicious without too much fuss. Who doesn’t love a quick win in the kitchen?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using pasta shells (conchiglie) as they hold the sauce well. If you can’t find these, try penne or fusilli. Both shapes have ridges that can trap the creamy sauce.
Ricotta Cheese: Whole milk ricotta gives the best creaminess. For a lighter option, use part-skim ricotta. If you’re dairy-free, you can swap it for tofu ricotta or a nut-based cream like cashew cream.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan enhances the flavor. If you’re vegan or lactose intolerant, use nutritional yeast, which offers a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Garlic: Optional, but I love adding it for a flavor boost. If you prefer something milder, try using garlic powder instead. You might enjoy roasted garlic for a sweeter taste.
How Do You Make the Creamy Sauce Without Clumps?
The sauce’s creaminess comes from combining hot pasta with the ricotta mixture and reserved pasta water. Here’s how to do it smoothly:
- After draining the pasta, immediately mix it into the ricotta and Parmesan. The heat helps soften the cheese.
- Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a couple of tablespoons at a time, while stirring gently. This allows the sauce to emulsify, preventing clumps.
- Keep the heat low to moderate. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit more pasta water until you get that lovely creamy texture.
How to Make Creamy Ricotta Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta shells (conchiglie) or your preferred pasta shape
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk ricotta for creaminess)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- ½ cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (e.g., basil or oregano)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This flavorful creamy ricotta pasta takes about 20 minutes total: 10 minutes to prep and cook the pasta, and about 10 minutes to mix everything together and serve. Quick and simple!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your pasta shells. Cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep them from sticking.
2. Reserve the Pasta Water:
Before you drain the pasta, make sure to reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water is key to making your sauce creamy. After reserving, drain the pasta in a colander.
3. Mix the Sauce Ingredients:
In the same pot you used for the pasta or a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Stir well until the mixture is smooth.
4. Combine Pasta with Sauce:
Add the drained, hot pasta to the ricotta mixture. Now, slowly pour in the reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time. Stir gently as you mix, creating a creamy sauce that evenly coats the pasta. You can adjust the amount of pasta water depending on how creamy you want it!
5. Add Garlic (If Using):
If you’d like to include garlic, heat a small pan over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil, and sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Then, mix the sautéed garlic into the pasta.
6. Season to Taste:
Now, add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give it a good stir to incorporate all the flavors.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Serve your creamy ricotta pasta immediately! Top each serving with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and crack some black pepper over the top for extra flavor.
8. Finish with Fresh Herbs:
Garnish your pasta with a sprig of fresh herbs, like basil or oregano, for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your delightful, creamy dish!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While pasta shells (conchiglie) work best for holding the creamy sauce, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for your chosen pasta.
What If I Don’t Have Ricotta Cheese?
No problem! You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese blended until smooth or even cream cheese for a richer flavor. For a dairy-free option, try making a cashew cream by blending soaked cashews with a little water and seasoning.
How Can I Store Leftover Creamy Ricotta Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay good for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce, and warm it gently on the stovetop to keep the pasta from becoming mushy.
Can I Add Veggies to This Dish?
Definitely! You can mix in sautéed vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition. Just cook the veggies before adding them to the pasta for best results!
