Garlic Ricotta Pasta Recipe

Introduction

Garlic Ricotta Pasta is an incredibly comforting, creamy, and flavorful dish that combines the richness of ricotta cheese with the aromatic warmth of garlic. With a simple yet satisfying ingredient list, this recipe delivers a dish that feels indulgent but is easy to prepare in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special meal, this pasta is perfect for anyone who loves creamy, garlic-infused dishes with a little tang from the ricotta.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The creaminess of ricotta combined with garlic offers a comforting pasta sauce that’s light yet rich in flavor. With the addition of fresh herbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan, this dish becomes an elevated experience that’s both satisfying and versatile. This guide will walk you through how to make Garlic Ricotta Pasta, share helpful tips for the best results, and suggest variations to make this dish perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Ricotta Pasta

• Creamy and Flavorful: Ricotta cheese brings a delicate creaminess to the sauce, while garlic adds a savory, aromatic depth to the dish. The combination is a perfect match that complements the pasta beautifully.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, Garlic Ricotta Pasta is ideal for busy weeknights when you want a delicious, satisfying meal without much fuss.
• Comforting Yet Light: The ricotta adds richness to the dish without overwhelming it, creating a balance that makes it indulgent but not too heavy.
• Customizable: This dish is highly versatile. You can add vegetables like spinach or roasted tomatoes, top it with grilled chicken, or even make it a bit spicier with some red pepper flakes. It’s easy to make it your own.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: Garlic Ricotta Pasta is a vegetarian dish, making it a great option for those who prefer plant-based meals or for a meatless Monday dinner.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 450-500 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion size.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450-500 kcal
• Fat: 18-20g
• Carbohydrates: 50-55g
• Protein: 12-14g
• Fiber: 2-3g
• Sugar: 3-5g

Ingredients

For the Garlic Ricotta Pasta:

• 1 lb pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine work well)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk or part-skim)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (plus extra for serving)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for freshness)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra creaminess)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 cup spinach or other greens (optional, for added nutrition)

Special Equipment

Garlic Ricotta Pasta doesn’t require any specialized tools, but here are a few kitchen essentials that can help make the cooking process smoother:

1. Large Pot for Boiling Pasta: A large pot ensures your pasta cooks evenly and doesn’t overcrowd, allowing the noodles to move freely in the water.
2. Skillet or Large Pan: A large skillet or sauté pan is necessary for preparing the sauce and combining the pasta. A non-stick pan works well to prevent sticking.
3. Strainer: You’ll need a strainer to drain your pasta and save some pasta water for adjusting the sauce later if needed.
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements for the ricotta, cream, and other ingredients will ensure the perfect balance of flavors.
5. Grater for Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will add a richer flavor to the dish than pre-grated cheese.
6. Tongs or Pasta Server: These tools make it easy to transfer the cooked pasta into the skillet and toss it with the sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water and then drain the rest. Set the pasta aside.

2. Sauté the Garlic

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently. The garlic should become fragrant and golden but not browned, as overcooked garlic can become bitter. If you want to add a bit of heat, now is the time to sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Stir them in for about 30 seconds to infuse the oil.

3. Prepare the Ricotta Sauce

Once the garlic is fragrant, reduce the heat to low and add the ricotta cheese to the skillet. Stir the ricotta into the garlic and olive oil, allowing it to soften and blend with the garlic. If the ricotta feels too thick, add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water to help create a smoother sauce. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the ricotta, forming a creamy sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.

If you want to add a bit of freshness to the dish, now is a great time to mix in lemon zest and a splash of lemon juice. This will brighten up the richness of the ricotta and balance the flavors beautifully.

4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the ricotta sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce until it’s fully coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little more of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. The starchy pasta water helps the sauce adhere to the pasta and creates a silky texture.

If you like your pasta extra creamy, add a tablespoon of butter to the skillet for a little added richness. Stir the butter into the sauce until it melts completely and the sauce becomes velvety smooth.

5. Add Optional Ingredients

At this stage, you can choose to add additional ingredients to customize the dish to your liking. Fresh spinach or other greens can be added to the skillet, allowing them to wilt into the sauce and add some extra nutrients. If you like a bit of protein, consider adding grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even roasted vegetables.

6. Garnish and Serve

Once the pasta is coated in the ricotta sauce and you’re happy with the consistency, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the pasta with fresh basil or parsley for an herbaceous touch. Add extra grated Parmesan cheese on top, and season with freshly ground black pepper.

Serve the pasta immediately while it’s hot and creamy. Pair with a light salad or garlic bread, and enjoy a comforting, satisfying meal.

7. Enjoy!

Your Garlic Ricotta Pasta is ready to be enjoyed! The creamy ricotta and garlic combination makes this dish an instant favorite. It’s the perfect balance of comforting, rich, and fresh flavors.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Ricotta Pasta

• Use Fresh Ricotta: The quality of the ricotta will directly affect the flavor and creaminess of your sauce. Opt for fresh ricotta from a local dairy if possible.
• Don’t Overcook the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly, turning bitter. Be sure to sauté it just until fragrant, and be careful not to let it brown too much.
• Save Pasta Water: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water before draining the pasta. This starchy water can help adjust the sauce consistency and help the sauce cling to the pasta.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, use less ricotta or add more pasta water. If you like it extra creamy, add more ricotta or a little butter.
• Add Protein: For a heartier dish, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed mushrooms can be added to the pasta for extra protein.
• Customize with Vegetables: Add spinach, roasted cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for a vegetable-packed version. These vegetables pair wonderfully with the creamy ricotta sauce.

Variations of Garlic Ricotta Pasta

• Garlic Ricotta and Spinach Pasta: Add a couple of handfuls of fresh spinach to the skillet after you’ve added the ricotta. The spinach will wilt into the sauce, adding some greenery and extra nutrients.
• Garlic Ricotta and Mushroom Pasta: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for a more earthy, savory flavor. The mushrooms absorb the garlic and ricotta sauce perfectly.
• Spicy Garlic Ricotta Pasta: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dish for an extra kick. The heat pairs wonderfully with the creamy ricotta.
• Garlic Ricotta Pesto Pasta: Mix ricotta with fresh basil pesto for an added herby flavor. This combination brings in a new layer of freshness to the creamy pasta.
• Garlic Ricotta and Lemon Pasta: Add an extra punch of citrus by increasing the amount of lemon zest and lemon juice. This will give your pasta a fresh, tangy flavor.

Storage and Shelf Life

Garlic Ricotta Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a little bit of pasta water or cream to help loosen the sauce, as it may thicken after sitting in the fridge.

This dish can be frozen, but the ricotta sauce may change in texture. To freeze, let the pasta cool completely and transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove, adding a bit of water or cream to adjust the sauce.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Garlic Ricotta Pasta

• Garlic Bread: Serve with a side of crispy, buttery garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula or mixed greens dressed in a simple vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus complement the flavors of garlic and ricotta beautifully.
• White Wine: Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to balance the richness of the pasta.

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Conclusion

Garlic Ricotta Pasta is a comforting and creamy dish that’s quick to make, flavorful, and highly versatile. With its rich ricotta sauce infused with garlic and topped with Parmesan, it’s a meal that’s perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. Whether you enjoy it as-is or customize it with extra vegetables or protein, this pasta is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.