Name: Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta: Quick & Flavorful Weeknight Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz (340 g) of your favorite pasta (penne, spaghetti, or fusilli); 1 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1/2 cup ricotta cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp dried basil or Italian seasoning; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

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Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta: Quick & Flavorful Weeknight Dinner 🍅🧀✨

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a creamy tomato ricotta pasta recipe that combines rich flavors with easy preparation, you’re in the right place. This quick and flavorful dinner is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. With its velvety sauce, freshly cooked pasta, and the subtle sweetness of ricotta cheese, this weeknight pasta dish will become a regular on your dinner rotation. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can add your favorite herbs or protein to customize it to your taste.

2. Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta

12 oz (340 g) of your favorite pasta (penne, spaghetti, or fusilli)

1 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp dried basil or Italian seasoning
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

3. How to Make Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta

Prepare the Pasta

Cook the pasta in boiling salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water for later.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic to maintain its delicate flavor.

Simmer the Tomato Sauce

Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet, stirring well. Season with dried basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes to develop a rich flavor.

Add the Ricotta and Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the ricotta cheese. Mix until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy tomato ricotta sauce. Adjust seasoning as necessary. For an even more flavorful experience, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.

4. Storage Tips for Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or milk and microwave until warm, stirring occasionally. This ensures your weeknight pasta remains fresh and delicious.

5. Serving Suggestions for Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta

This creamy tomato ricotta pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and crusty bread. For added protein, consider stirring in sautéed chicken pieces or shrimp. You can also enhance the flavor by topping it with additional herbs or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil.

For more pasta inspiration, visit our Parmesan Chicken Pesto Pasta recipe or explore our healthy broccoli pasta options.

6. Frequently Asked Questions about Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta

Is this pasta suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this creamy tomato ricotta pasta is perfectly vegetarian, using cheese and tomatoes for flavor without any meat ingredients.

Can I make this dish vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute ricotta cheese with vegan ricotta or blended tofu, and ensure you use vegan-friendly pasta and cheese alternatives. Check out our vegan cheese options for inspiration.

What other herbs and spices go well with this pasta?

Fresh basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, or a pinch of nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile of your creamy tomato ricotta pasta. Experiment to find your favorite combination!

7. External Resources for Pasta Lovers

For more cooking tips and pasta recipes, explore cheese recipes or visit chicken recipes for protein ideas to pair with this dish. You can also check out this delicious creamy tomato pasta for additional inspiration.

8. Additional Tips and Variations

Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables.
Mix in cooked sausage or pancetta for a heartier meal.
Use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for a more vibrant flavor.
Replace ricotta with cottage cheese for a different creamy texture.

9. Conclusion

In summary, this creamy tomato ricotta pasta offers a delightful combination of rich, fresh, and comforting flavors, making it an ideal weeknight pasta that cooks quickly and satisfies deeply. The simplicity of ingredients and ease of preparation make it accessible to home cooks of all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a flavorful dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to become a staple. Give it a try today and enjoy a delightful meal that’s both quick and incredibly tasty!