If you have been on the lookout for a comforting yet effortlessly delicious dinner, this Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta Recipe is going to become your new best friend in the kitchen. It brings together perfectly cooked pasta and a luscious tomato sauce that’s enriched with creamy ricotta cheese, bursting with fresh herbs and just the right hint of seasoning. Every bite offers a wonderful balance of tangy, creamy, and savory flavors that come together in a way that feels indulgent but is actually quite easy to prepare. This dish is truly a celebration of simple ingredients that deliver big on taste and satisfaction.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first joyous step to creating this dreamy creamy tomato ricotta pasta. Each ingredient plays a key role: from the al dente texture of the pasta to the smooth creaminess of the ricotta, and the vibrant zing from fresh herbs and spices that awaken the sauce’s depth of flavor.
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli): Choose shapes that hold sauce well for the perfect bite.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the garlic to fragrant perfection.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with a warm and inviting aroma.
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes: The heart of the sauce, providing tangy sweetness and body.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings out earthy, herbal notes that complement the tomatoes beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a sweet and peppery hint that’s classic in Italian cooking.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A gentle kick that awakens the palate without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing every flavor.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Creates that luscious creamy texture that defines this recipe.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty depth to the sauce and finishing touch.
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish): Brightens each serving with freshness and color.
- Extra Parmesan (for serving): For those who love a little extra cheesy indulgence.
How to Make Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil — the salt seasons the pasta as it cooks, infusing it with flavor. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until perfectly al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Keep the texture slightly firm to ensure it holds up beautifully when mixed with the rich sauce. Before draining, don’t forget to scoop out about a cup of the pasta cooking water – this starchy water will be pure magic when adjusting the sauce consistency later.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
While your pasta bubbles away, take a large skillet and warm up the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and gently sauté until fragrant and golden, releasing its full aroma without bitterness. Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes to create the base of your sauce, then sprinkle in dried oregano, basil, and if you like a little heat, red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper, then let it all simmer together for about 10 to 15 minutes. This slow simmer lets the flavors marry and the sauce thicken to just the right richness.
Step 3: Incorporate the Ricotta
Lower the heat and gently stir in the creamy ricotta cheese. This step transforms the sauce into the luscious, velvety dream that makes this pasta so special — rich without being heavy. Gradually add some of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency, lending it silkiness and helping it cling lovingly to every piece of pasta.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Drain the pasta and add it directly to your skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together gently to ensure every bite is coated in that creamy tomato goodness. Finish by stirring in grated Parmesan cheese, which melts in beautifully, adding depth and a slightly nutty, salty layer. Give it a final taste and tweak the seasoning as needed. Your creamy tomato ricotta pasta is now ready to serve and celebrate!
How to Serve Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten this dish just before serving with a handful of fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and fresh herbal flavor. Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top if you love that salty, cheesy finish that pairs so well with the creamy sauce.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette or a warm crusty garlic bread to scoop up every bit of sauce. Roasted or sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach can add a nutritious and flavorful contrast to the creaminess of the dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant touch, serve the pasta in shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant tomato sauce studded with ricotta. Add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper to finish. For a casual meal, serve straight from the skillet for a cozy, family-style vibe that invites sharing and smiles.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (and you very well might), allow the pasta to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge and enjoy within 3 days while it’s still fresh and vibrant.
Freezing
For best results, freeze the tomato sauce and pasta separately before combining with ricotta. This prevents the creamy cheese from separating. Both components can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover creamy tomato ricotta pasta gently on the stove in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce and revive its creaminess. Heat just until warmed through to avoid drying out the pasta or curdling the ricotta.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned crushed tomatoes?
Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes can add a wonderful brightness to your sauce, but they will require more prep time. Roast or simmer them down to create a similar texture and depth as canned crushed tomatoes before adding your herbs and seasonings.
Is ricotta cheese necessary in this recipe?
Ricotta cheese is what gives this recipe its signature creamy texture and mild richness. While you could substitute it with mascarpone or cream cheese, the flavor and consistency might differ slightly, so ricotta is highly recommended for the authentic experience.
How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth that complements the tomato and cheese without overwhelming the palate. You can easily adjust the amount or omit it altogether to suit your heat preference.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, use plant-based ricotta and Parmesan alternatives, and ensure your pasta doesn’t contain eggs. The rich tomato sauce will still shine beautifully with these swaps.
What pasta shape works best?
Penne and fusilli are great choices because their shapes hold onto the creamy sauce nicely. However, feel free to experiment with other shapes like rigatoni or farfalle depending on your preference and what you have on hand.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta Recipe has all the hallmarks of a beloved comfort food: simplicity, heartwarming flavors, and that irresistible creamy texture that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or impressing friends with a cozy dinner, this dish is an absolute winner. Be sure to try it soon, and get ready to enjoy every luscious forkful!
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Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta is a comforting and delicious dish featuring perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a rich, flavorful tomato sauce enhanced with garlic, herbs, and creamy ricotta cheese. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces of pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Extra Parmesan for serving
Instructions
- Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil using about 1 tablespoon of salt to season the water properly.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy cooking water to help adjust the sauce consistency later.
- Drain the Pasta: Drain the pasta in a colander but do not rinse it; set it aside to maintain starches that help the sauce adhere.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Crushed Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well to combine with the garlic-infused oil.
- Season the Sauce: Add dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to develop the flavors.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed to ensure balanced flavors.
- Add Ricotta Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the ricotta cheese slowly until it is fully incorporated into the sauce, creating a creamy texture.
- Add Pasta Water: Gradually add some of the reserved pasta water to the sauce to reach your desired consistency, making it silky and smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss gently to coat each piece evenly.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, adding richness and depth.
- Taste Again: Do a final taste test and adjust seasoning if necessary to ensure a perfect balance of flavors.
- Serve: Plate the pasta into serving bowls generously.
- Garnish: Top each serving with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese for added aroma and taste.
- Enjoy: Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, comforting pasta dish.
- Cool Down Leftovers: Allow any leftover pasta to cool to room temperature before storing.
- Store Leftovers: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil if the sauce has thickened too much.
- Freeze: Optionally, freeze the sauce and pasta separately before adding ricotta for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Notes
- Use penne or fusilli to help the sauce cling well to the pasta.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency for a creamy texture.
- If you prefer less heat, omit red pepper flakes.
- Do not rinse pasta after draining to keep starches that help sauce adhere.
- Store leftovers in airtight containers and consume within 3 days for best freshness.
- Ricotta can be mixed in gradually to avoid curdling and ensure a smooth sauce.
- Freezing pasta with ricotta is not recommended, but freezing sauce and pasta separately works well.
