Tomato Ricotta Pasta – A Creamy, Flavorful 15-Minute Meal

Looking for a quick and delicious dinner? This Tomato Ricotta Pasta is the perfect solution! In just 15 minutes, you can enjoy a creamy, comforting dish made with simple ingredients like juicy tomatoes, fresh herbs, and creamy ricotta cheese. Whether you’re craving a healthy dinner with tomatoes, a pasta using ricotta cheese, or an easy meal to prepare in advance, this dish is a must-try.

Packed with flavor and easy to customize, this recipe works well with different pasta shapes, vegetables, or proteins. You can even turn it into a baked tomato pasta recipe for an extra cozy twist!

Let’s dive into this creamy, quick pasta dish that’s perfect for weeknights!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & easy – Ready in just 15 minutes!
• Healthy & wholesome – Made with fresh ingredients like tomatoes and ricotta.
• Great for meal prep – Perfect for easy to heat up meals throughout the week.
• Customizable – Add veggies like zucchini or broccoli, or mix in shrimp for a shrimp and ricotta recipe twist.
• Creamy & satisfying – The ricotta cheese adds a rich, velvety texture without being too heavy.

Ingredients for Tomato Ricotta Pasta

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti work best)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups (225g) cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ cup (125ml) pasta water (reserved from cooking)

For the Ricotta Sauce:

• ¾ cup (180g) ricotta cheese
• ¼ cup (60ml) milk or pasta water (for a smoother sauce)
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
• ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Additions:

• 1 cup (150g) cooked shrimp – For a shrimp and ricotta recipe variation.
• ½ cup (75g) sautéed zucchini – Great for creamy zucchini pasta recipes.
• ½ cup (75g) steamed broccoli – Try a pasta with broccoli and tomatoes version.
• ½ cup (100g) fresh mozzarella, torn – A delicious fresh mozzarella pasta recipe option.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Skillet or saucepan for the sauce
• Strainer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Base

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Toss in the cherry tomatoes, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
4. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.

Step 3: Make the Ricotta Sauce

1. In a bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, milk (or pasta water), dried oregano, and garlic powder until smooth.
2. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese for extra creaminess.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes.
2. Pour in the ricotta sauce and reserved pasta water, tossing everything together until well coated.
3. Stir in chopped fresh basil for added freshness.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Transfer to plates and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and basil.
2. Serve warm and enjoy this healthy dinner with tomatoes!

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Tips for the Best Tomato Ricotta Pasta

• Use fresh ricotta – It creates a smoother, creamier sauce.
• Don’t overcook the tomatoes – Keep them slightly chunky for texture.
• Reserve pasta water – It helps make the sauce silky and smooth.
• Want extra protein? Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
• Make it a baked dish – Transfer the pasta to a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.

Variations & Substitutions

Baked Tomato Pasta Recipe:

• After mixing everything, place the pasta in an oven-safe dish.
• Top with fresh mozzarella and bake until bubbly.

Creamy Zucchini Pasta Recipe:

• Add sautéed zucchini to the tomato mixture for extra creaminess and nutrition.

Shrimp and Ricotta Recipe:

• Stir in cooked shrimp when adding the ricotta sauce for a seafood twist.

Pasta with Broccoli and Tomatoes:

• Steam broccoli florets and mix them in for extra greens.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the pasta water – It helps the sauce coat the pasta better.
• Overcooking the tomatoes – They should be soft but still hold their shape.
• Using low-fat ricotta – It won’t be as creamy or flavorful.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as ricotta may become grainy when thawed.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or pasta water to refresh the sauce.

What to Serve With Tomato Ricotta Pasta

• Garlic bread – Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Side salad – A light green salad balances the richness.
• Grilled chicken or shrimp – Adds extra protein.

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FAQs

Can I use another cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes! Cottage cheese or mascarpone are great alternatives.

What’s the best pasta for this dish?

Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli works best, but spaghetti is also great.

Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

Yes! Just reheat with a splash of water or milk to keep the sauce creamy.

Conclusion

This Tomato Ricotta Pasta is a simple, delicious, and versatile meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you enjoy it as a healthy dinner with tomatoes, a quick lunch, or a cozy baked dish, it’s guaranteed to satisfy. Plus, it’s easy to customize with shrimp, zucchini, or fresh mozzarella for a fun twist!

Try this recipe today and let us know how you liked it! Don’t forget to share your favorite pasta dishes with tomatoes and tag us when you make it. Happy cooking!

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