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A close-up of creamy tomato ricotta pasta with penne, cherry tomatoes, spinach, and a rich, cheesy tomato sauce in a skillet.

Best Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta

chef Laya
This Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta is a quick and delicious meal that combines a rich tomato sauce with smooth ricotta cheese for an irresistibly creamy texture. Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a comforting dish in no time. Serve it with fresh basil and Parmesan for an authentic Italian touch!
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Prepr Time 5 minutes
Cooking Time 15 minutes
ToTal Time 20 minutes
Type of plate Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
kitchen Italian

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.
    A pot of boiling water with pasta being added, with steam rising from the pot. Title: Cooking Pasta for Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta
  • 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.
    Grated cheese and ricotta being added to a rich tomato sauce in a skillet, with a wooden spoon resting on the side.
  • 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.
    Cooked penne pasta coated in a creamy tomato and ricotta sauce, garnished with fresh parsley in a skillet.
  • 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!