Looking for a quick and delicious pasta dish that’s rich, creamy, and full of flavor? Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta is the perfect recipe for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Made with a luscious tomato sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and aromatic Italian seasonings, this dish comes together in just 20 minutes—ideal for anyone who loves simple yet satisfying meals.
The combination of tangy tomatoes and smooth ricotta cheese creates a velvety sauce that coats each bite of pasta, making it irresistibly delicious. Plus, with just a handful of pantry staples like garlic, olive oil, and fresh basil, you can easily prepare this dish anytime. Whether you’re a pasta lover or simply searching for a quick dinner idea, this Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta is sure to become a go-to favorite.
Ready to make this easy and flavorful pasta dish? Let’s dive into the recipe! 🍝
Best Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta
Ingrédients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz 340g pasta (penne, spaghetti, or fusilli)
- 1 teaspoon salt for boiling water
For the Creamy Tomato Ricotta Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 1 can 14 oz San Marzano tomatoes, crushed
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ¼ cup heavy cream optional for extra creaminess
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh basil chopped
For Garnish (Optional):
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in crushed San Marzano tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, and tomato paste.
- Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Make It Creamy:
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in ricotta cheese.
- Add heavy cream (if using) for an extra creamy texture.
- Mix in grated Parmesan and stir until well combined.
Combine Pasta & Sauce:
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water for a silkier texture.
Garnish & Serve:
- Sprinkle with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese.
- Serve hot and enjoy your Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta!
Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta
Making the perfect Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta is all about balancing flavors, achieving the right texture, and using quality ingredients. Here are some expert tips to take your dish to the next level:
1. How to Achieve the Perfect Creamy Texture
The key to a rich, velvety sauce is emulsifying the ingredients properly. Here’s how to do it:
- Use high-quality ricotta cheese: Fresh, whole-milk ricotta creates a smoother, creamier consistency compared to lower-fat versions.
- Reserve pasta water: Before draining your pasta, set aside about ½ cup of the starchy pasta water. Adding this to your sauce helps loosen it up while making it silkier.
- Whisk the ricotta before adding it to the sauce: This prevents clumping and ensures even distribution throughout the tomato sauce.
- Simmer gently, don’t boil: Cooking the ricotta sauce on low to medium heat prevents it from becoming grainy.
2. Adjusting the Flavor to Your Taste
Customizing the seasoning can make this dish even more delicious:
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat.
- Enhance the umami flavor with Parmesan cheese—grate some over the finished pasta for extra depth.
- Brighten up the dish with fresh herbs: Basil or parsley not only add color but also a fresh, aromatic flavor.
- Balance the acidity of the tomato sauce: If your sauce tastes too tangy, stir in a pinch of sugar or a splash of heavy cream for a mellower, richer taste.
3. How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you have leftovers, follow these tips to maintain the best flavor and texture:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating on the stovetop: Add a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water while warming it over low heat to keep the sauce creamy.
- Microwave method: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds at a time), stirring in between to prevent drying out.
- Freezing tips: While ricotta-based sauces don’t freeze as well as cream-based ones, you can freeze the pasta in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What to Serve with Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta
Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta is rich, comforting, and full of flavor, making it a fantastic main dish. To create a well-rounded meal, pair it with complementary sides, drinks, and variations to enhance the experience. Here are some delicious options:
1. Best Side Dishes to Complement This Pasta
Adding the right side dish can balance the richness of the pasta and make your meal more satisfying:
- Garlic Bread or Focaccia: A slice of warm, crispy garlic bread or soft, herb-infused focaccia is perfect for soaking up the extra creamy tomato ricotta sauce.
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, arugula, or romaine lettuce dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar adds a light, refreshing contrast.
- Roasted or Sautéed Vegetables: Try roasted asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers for a nutritious and flavorful side that pairs well with the creamy pasta.
- Bruschetta: A classic Italian appetizer with toasted bread, tomatoes, basil, and garlic is a great way to start your meal with bright and fresh flavors.
2. Wine Pairing Suggestions for a Complete Meal
Pairing the right wine can enhance the flavors of your creamy tomato ricotta pasta:
- White Wine: A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy texture and tomato-based sauce without overpowering the dish.
- Red Wine: A light-bodied Chianti or Pinot Noir works well with the acidity of tomatoes and the richness of ricotta.
- Sparkling Wine: If you’re serving this dish for a special occasion, a Prosecco or Champagne adds a refreshing touch.
3. Variations and Substitutions to Try
If you want to switch things up, here are some creative ways to modify the dish or visit garlic prawn pasta :
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy pancetta to the pasta.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle chili oil for a bit of heat.
- Try a Vegan Version: Substitute ricotta with cashew cream or dairy-free ricotta, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
- Use Different Pasta Shapes: While penne works great, you can try rigatoni, fettuccine, or even gnocchi for a unique twist.
These pairings and variations will help you customize your Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta meal to suit your taste and occasion.