Tomato Ricotta Pasta Recipe: A Quick and Creamy Comfort Dish

Tomato Ricotta Pasta is the ultimate comfort food—a creamy, tangy dish that combines the robust flavors of tomatoes with the smooth richness of ricotta cheese. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a satisfying Italian-inspired meal. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious pasta dish on the table in no time.

What Is Tomato Ricotta Pasta?

Tomato Ricotta Pasta is a creamy pasta dish featuring a tomato-based sauce enriched with ricotta and Parmesan cheese. The combination creates a luscious, slightly tangy sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta. Enhanced with garlic, dried basil, and optional red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, this dish offers a balance of savory and creamy flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings.
• Versatile: Works with any pasta shape and allows for easy customization.
• Rich and Creamy: The ricotta adds a luxurious creaminess to the sauce.
• Family-Friendly: A comforting dish that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water.
2. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. Set aside.

Preparing the Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Making It Creamy

1. Lower the heat and stir in ricotta cheese and Parmesan. Mix well until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

Combining the Pasta

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and extra grated Parmesan for a beautiful and flavorful finish.
• Pair with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
• Complement the dish with a glass of light red wine, such as Pinot Noir, or a sparkling water infused with lemon.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or milk to maintain the creamy texture.

Freezing Instructions

• While the tomato-ricotta sauce can be frozen separately for up to 2 months, it’s best to prepare fresh pasta when ready to serve.
• To freeze the sauce, cool completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Additions: Add sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or mushrooms for extra veggies.
• Protein Boost: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or crumbled Italian sausage.
• Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
• Herb Swap: Substitute fresh thyme or oregano for dried basil to change up the flavor.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Blanch, peel, and chop about 4 medium tomatoes, then cook them down to create the base for the sauce.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, substitute the ricotta with a vegan ricotta alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?
Penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti all work well, but feel free to use any pasta shape you have on hand.

Tomato Ricotta Pasta is a simple yet indulgent dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. With its creamy sauce and rich tomato base, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share your experience or any creative twists you’ve added. Happy cooking!

Print