The aroma of freshly made Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta wafts through the air, teasing your senses and promising a delightful culinary journey. With each twirl of perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a creamy, tangy tomato sauce, you can’t help but imagine the explosion of flavors that awaits your taste buds.
Picture this: it’s a cozy weeknight dinner, and you’re ready to impress your family or perhaps just indulge yourself in some serious comfort food. The colors of ripe tomatoes and creamy ricotta mingle beautifully on your plate, creating a feast for both the eyes and the palate. As you dig in, you’ll discover that every bite is like a hug from the inside—warm, comforting, and utterly satisfying.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The rich flavors of tomatoes and creamy ricotta blend seamlessly for an unforgettable experience.
- Visually stunning with its vibrant colors, it’s sure to impress anyone at your table.
- Its versatility means you can customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins.
Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pasta: Use your favorite type; I recommend penne or fusilli for their ability to hold onto the sauce.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds depth and flavor to the dish.
Fresh Garlic: Choose plump cloves for maximum flavor; they’re crucial in building the sauce’s base.
Canned Crushed Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes; they make all the difference in flavor.
Ricotta Cheese: Soft and creamy, ricotta gives richness to the sauce and balances acidity.
Fresh Basil: For garnish, fresh basil leaves add a lovely aromatic touch that brightens up the dish.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the delicious flavors.
For the Sauce:
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds an extra layer of savory goodness; don’t skip it!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. broccoli salad recipe.
How to Make Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water over medium-high heat. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about one cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in some olive oil. Once heated, toss in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned—about one minute will do.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes
Pour in your canned crushed tomatoes into the skillet with garlic. Stir well and let it simmer for about five minutes so those flavors can get acquainted.
Step 4: Mix in Ricotta
Reduce heat to low and add ricotta cheese into the tomato mixture. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy. If necessary, add reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is reached.
Step 5: Combine Pasta
Add drained pasta into the skillet with creamy tomato-ricotta sauce. Toss gently until every piece of pasta is coated with luscious sauce—this is where magic happens!
Step 6: Serve
Transfer your Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta onto plates or bowls. Garnish generously with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese for an Instagram-worthy finish!
Dig into this mouthwatering creation that promises not just satisfaction but also joy at every bite. Enjoy!
You Must Know
- This creamy tomato ricotta pasta dish is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl.
- Rich, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying, it elevates any weeknight dinner into a cozy gathering.
- Ideal for impressing guests or enjoying a quiet night in, it’s versatile for all occasions.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling your pasta until al dente while you sauté garlic and onion in a separate pan. Once fragrant, stir in the tomatoes and let them simmer before adding the ricotta. Combine everything to create a luscious sauce that clings to every noodle.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the ricotta for cottage cheese if you’re feeling adventurous. Add some spinach or kale for extra nutrition, or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Customize it to match your taste buds!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and prevent drying out. Microwave or warm on the stove until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always salt your pasta water generously; it enhances flavor significantly!
- Don’t rush the simmering process; letting tomatoes cook down intensifies their sweetness.
- Lastly, reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency as needed.
Sometimes I whip up this creamy tomato ricotta pasta when friends visit, and the compliments keep rolling in! It’s like magic—everyone leaves happy and full, with requests for the recipe! pesto pinwheels recipe.
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta?
To prepare Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta, gather the following ingredients: your choice of pasta (like penne or spaghetti), fresh tomatoes, ricotta cheese, garlic, olive oil, basil leaves, salt, and pepper. You can also add Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Fresh ingredients enhance the taste, so choose ripe tomatoes and high-quality ricotta. This combination will create a rich and creamy sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
How long does it take to make Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta?
Making Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta is quick and easy! The entire process takes about 30 minutes. Start by boiling the pasta according to package instructions. While it cooks, sauté garlic in olive oil and add chopped tomatoes to create a sauce. Once the pasta is ready, combine it with the ricotta mixture for a delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Can I customize my Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta?
Absolutely! One of the best things about Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta is its versatility. You can customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition. Additionally, consider incorporating protein such as grilled chicken or shrimp if you want a heartier dish. Experiment with herbs like oregano or thyme for different flavor profiles that suit your taste preferences. For more inspiration, check out this Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta recipe.
Is Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta suitable for meal prep?
Yes, Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta is great for meal prep! You can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat everything together on the stove or in the microwave. This makes it an ideal option for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week!
Conclusion for Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta :
Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that is sure to impress anyone at your dinner table. With simple ingredients like fresh tomatoes and creamy ricotta cheese, this dish comes together quickly while still providing comfort and satisfaction. chicken parmesan recipe Whether you stick to the classic recipe or make creative adjustments, this pasta dish remains versatile and perfect for various occasions. Enjoy this delicious meal any night of the week!
Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta
Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta is a rich and comforting dish that combines the tangy flavors of crushed tomatoes with the smoothness of ricotta cheese. This quick and easy recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights. With vibrant colors and a delicious aroma, this pasta not only satisfies your taste buds but also pleases the eyes. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins for an even more delightful experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- 1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- 2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- 3. Stir in crushed tomatoes and let simmer for 5 minutes.
- 4. Reduce heat to low and mix in ricotta cheese until creamy, adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
- 5. Combine drained pasta with the sauce, tossing gently until well coated.
- 6. Serve with fresh basil and Parmesan on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 264g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: - For added nutrition, mix in spinach or kale. - Swap ricotta for cottage cheese for a lighter dish. - Adjust seasoning with crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.