Creamy Ricotta Pasta Sauce

Name: Creamy Ricotta Pasta Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup ricotta cheese (fresh); 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon lemon zest (freshly grated); 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground); 1/2 cup pasta water (reserved)

25 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

This velvety creamy ricotta pasta sauce is the perfect companion for your favourite pasta, offering a rich and satisfying taste that's sure to please.

Prep

10 min

Cook

15 min

Total

25 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Pasta is a staple in many households, and while there are countless sauces to choose from, nothing quite compares to the luxurious texture and flavour of a creamy ricotta pasta sauce. This recipe is designed to create a rich yet light sauce that clings beautifully to your choice of pasta, making each bite a delight. In this version, we've balanced the creaminess of ricotta with the sharpness of Parmesan and the zest of lemon, creating a sauce that's both comforting and vibrant. Whether you're a busy parent looking for a quick weeknight meal or a pasta enthusiast seeking a new favourite, this creamy ricotta sauce is sure to become a household staple.

Instructions

Prepare the garlic

In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.

Pro tip: If the garlic starts to brown, reduce the heat immediately to prevent bitterness.

Combine ricotta and Parmesan

In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth.

Pro tip: For an extra smooth sauce, use a whisk to blend the cheeses.

Infuse garlic into cheese

Pour the warm garlic-infused olive oil into the cheese mixture. Stir until well combined.

Add seasoning and zest

Stir in lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavours.

Pro tip: Adjust seasoning to your taste preference.

Incorporate pasta water

Gradually add reserved pasta water to the sauce, stirring until you reach the desired consistency. The sauce should be creamy and slightly fluid.

Pro tip: Start with a small amount of water and add more as needed.

Serve with pasta

Toss the prepared sauce with cooked pasta of your choice. Serve immediately, garnished with more Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.

Pro tip: For best results, serve immediately while the sauce is warm and creamy.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh ricotta for the best texture and flavour.
Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
Don't overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many calories are in creamy ricotta pasta sauce?

A single serving contains approximately 320 calories.

Can I use store-bought ricotta for the sauce?

Yes, store-bought ricotta works well, but fresh ricotta will provide a superior texture and flavour.

How do I make the sauce less thick?

Gradually add reserved pasta water to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce up to three days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

What pasta pairs best with creamy ricotta sauce?

This sauce pairs well with fettuccine, penne, or any pasta that holds sauce well.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy ricotta pasta sauce over your favourite pasta, such as fettuccine or penne, and garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan for an added touch of flavour. Pair it with a simple green salad and a glass of white wine for a complete meal. This sauce can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to maintain its creamy consistency.