Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta

Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta is a rich and comforting dish that combines the tangy sweetness of tomatoes with the smooth, velvety texture of ricotta cheese. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner and can be customized with various add-ins to suit your taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights
• Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
• Rich, creamy, and packed with flavor
• Easily adaptable to different diets and preferences
• Great for meal prep and reheats well

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pasta (such as penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti)
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
• Ricotta cheese
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Fresh basil, chopped
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Water or vegetable broth (if needed for sauce consistency)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce and stir well. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes.
4. Lower the heat and add the ricotta cheese, stirring until it melts into the sauce and becomes creamy.
5. Stir in grated Parmesan, red pepper flakes (if using), and fresh basil. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.
6. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly in the sauce. If needed, use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh basil.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Protein boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crumbled sausage for extra protein.
• Veggie-packed: Stir in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers.
• Spicy twist: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Vegan version: Use dairy-free ricotta and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
• Gluten-free option: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta variety.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to maintain creaminess. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

How can I make this pasta sauce smoother?

Blend the tomato sauce before adding the ricotta for an extra smooth consistency.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes! Simmer chopped fresh tomatoes until they break down into a thick sauce before adding ricotta.

Is ricotta cheese necessary for this recipe?

Ricotta gives the sauce its creamy texture, but you can substitute with mascarpone or cream cheese if needed.

What pasta shape works best?

Short pasta like penne or rigatoni works well as it holds the sauce better, but spaghetti also works.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, make the sauce in advance and store it separately from the pasta until ready to serve.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

Use reserved pasta water or a splash of broth to thin out the sauce as needed.

What can I serve with this pasta?

Pair it with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables.

Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes, but blend it first for a smoother texture.

How do I make this recipe kid-friendly?

Reduce red pepper flakes and serve with grated cheese on top.

What wine pairs well with this pasta?

A light red wine like Pinot Noir or a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors.

Conclusion

Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta is a delicious, easy, and versatile dish that satisfies comfort food cravings while remaining simple to prepare. Whether you enjoy it as-is or customize it to your liking, this recipe is bound to become a household favorite. Try it today and savor the creamy, tangy goodness in every bite!

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