Description
This Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta bursts with vibrant flavors, featuring rich ricotta and ripe tomatoes, all tossed with your favorite pasta for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces (340 grams) pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1⁄2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1⁄2 cup (120 grams) ricotta cheese
- 1⁄4 cup (60ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1⁄4 cup (25 grams) grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus extra for garnish
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
4. Reduce the heat to low and add the ricotta cheese and heavy cream to the tomato sauce. Stir well until the ricotta is fully incorporated and the sauce is creamy.
5. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and gently toss to coat the pasta with the creamy tomato sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
6. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil leaves. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
7. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil.
Notes
For a protein boost, consider adding cooked chicken or shrimp to the pasta.
If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to enhance the dish.
The ricotta adds a mild creaminess; for a more robust flavor, try using a mix of ricotta and cream cheese.
Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
This dish can be easily doubled to serve a larger crowd or for meal prep.
Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or pasta water to revive the sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 450