Creamy Ricotta Pasta (15 Minutes) Recipe
Quick Answer
Silky ricotta pasta with lemon, garlic, and fresh basil — a simple 15-minute Italian dinner that rivals restaurant quality. Only 6 ingredients needed.
By Sarah Mitchell • July 1, 2026
Silky ricotta pasta with lemon, garlic, and fresh basil — a simple 15-minute Italian dinner that rivals restaurant quality. Only 6 ingredients needed.
About This Recipe
"Creamy Ricotta Pasta (15 Minutes)" is a dinner recipe that brings Rigatoni or penne, Ricotta cheese (whole milk), Parmesan, grated, Garlic, minced and Lemon zest and juice together into a flavorful, well-balanced dish. Rated Easy and ready in about 17 minutes, this recipe fits easily into a busy schedule. It serves 4 and works equally well for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. The Italian inspiration behind this dish balances classic techniques with clean, vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
- 400 g Rigatoni or penne
- 1 cup Ricotta cheese (whole milk)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan, grated
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 lemon Lemon zest and juice
- 1/4 cup Fresh basil
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 cup Pasta water (reserved)
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 1/4 tsp Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Cook pasta in well-salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
- 2
In a large skillet, warm olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cook 30 seconds.
- 3
Remove from heat. Add ricotta and 1/2 cup pasta water. Stir until creamy and smooth.
- 4
Add drained pasta, parmesan, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Toss well, adding more pasta water as needed for a glossy sauce.
- 5
Season with salt and pepper. Top with torn basil and extra parmesan.
Expert Tips
For the best result, use the freshest, highest-quality ingredients you can find. Rigatoni or penne is the heart of this dish, so choose it with care. Read the recipe through before you start and prep all ingredients in advance (mise en place) so the cooking process is smooth. No equipment work especially well for this preparation. Because the recipe is vegetarian, it fits easily into balanced eating plans. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and acid at the end to make the flavors pop.
What To Serve With This
"Creamy Ricotta Pasta (15 Minutes)" is a versatile dinner dish that pairs beautifully with a simple side salad, buttered green beans, roasted potatoes and classic Italian sides. Choose at least one fresh and one hearty side to create a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Creamy Ricotta Pasta (15 Minutes) stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2–3 days. Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating before sealing the container. Reheat gently until warmed through, adding a small splash of liquid if needed to restore the original texture.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is pasta water important for ricotta pasta?
Starchy pasta water emulsifies with the ricotta to create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta. Without it, the ricotta stays clumpy.
Can I use low-fat ricotta?
Full-fat ricotta gives the creamiest, most luxurious result. Low-fat works but the sauce will be grainier and less rich.
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