Tomato Ricotta Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting yet delightfully fresh pasta dish, this Tomato Ricotta Pasta Recipe is about to become your new favorite weeknight go-to. With just a handful of simple ingredients that come together in minutes, you get tender pasta enveloped in creamy ricotta and bursts of juicy cherry tomatoes all brightened up with fragrant basil. It’s a perfect harmony of rich and light, satisfying without weighing you down. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this Tomato Ricotta Pasta Recipe will make you feel like a kitchen pro while filling your home with irresistible aromas.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the joy of making this dish—each component plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. The simplicity here allows every element to shine, resulting in a pasta that’s vibrant, creamy, and utterly delicious.

• 8 oz pasta (rigatoni or penne): Choose a sturdy shape to hold the creamy sauce beautifully with every bite.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds luscious creaminess and a mild tang that balances the dish.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Provides juicy sweetness and a burst of summer freshness.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéeing garlic and tomatoes, enhancing flavor while keeping it light.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic depth and a subtle kick.
• Fresh basil for garnish: Adds a fragrant herbal finish that wakes up the flavors.

How to Make Tomato Ricotta Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Perfectly

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your rigatoni or penne according to the package directions until al dente. This is important because you want the pasta to have a slight bite that holds up well once tossed with the creamy sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water just in case you want to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook it gently until it becomes fragrant and golden, about 1 minute—be careful not to burn it, as this will turn bitter. Then, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes. Let them cook down, stirring occasionally, until they soften and release their juices, creating a naturally sweet and slightly tangy base for the sauce.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Ricotta

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the ricotta cheese to the skillet with the tomato mixture. The ricotta will start melting, creating a creamy coating. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and gently toss everything together, making sure the pasta is evenly covered in the luscious sauce. If the mixture feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up to your preferred consistency. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve Warm

Transfer the pasta to serving plates and sprinkle with fresh basil leaves for an herbal brightness that lifts and contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce and sweet tomatoes. Serve it warm, and enjoy the harmony of simple yet vibrant flavors.

How to Serve Tomato Ricotta Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh basil is a classic and essential garnish here, bringing an aromatic lift. You can also add a drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil for a glossy finish or sprinkle some freshly cracked black pepper for a hint of spice. For a little extra texture, toasted pine nuts or a shaving of Parmesan cheese make excellent additions.

Side Dishes

This Tomato Ricotta Pasta Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, like a peppery arugula with lemon vinaigrette, or a simple cucumber and red onion salad. For a comforting touch, garlic bread or warm focaccia can round out the meal perfectly, soaking up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this pasta in rustic pasta bowls for a cozy vibe or on large plates with basil leaves artistically scattered for an elegant touch. For a fun twist, stuff the pasta into hollowed-out roasted bell peppers or use it as a filling for stuffed zucchini boats, making the dish both playful and appealing for gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, place the pasta in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The vibrant flavors hold up well, but keep in mind that the texture of the ricotta sauce may thicken as it chills.

Freezing

This Tomato Ricotta Pasta Recipe freezes okay but is best enjoyed fresh since ricotta can sometimes change texture after freezing. If you do freeze it, pop the pasta into a freezer-safe container and use within 1 month for best quality.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce as it warms. Avoid microwaving at high power to keep the ricotta creamy and prevent it from separating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of ricotta?

Absolutely! While ricotta provides a creamy, mild base, you can substitute with cottage cheese mixed with a bit of cream or mascarpone for a richer texture. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will shift slightly.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, simply swap the regular pasta for a gluten-free variety. Rice or corn-based pastas work beautifully and will still absorb the sauce well.

Can I add protein to this Tomato Ricotta Pasta Recipe?

Of course! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy pancetta are fabulous additions that complement the creamy and fresh flavors of the pasta.

What’s the best way to select tomatoes for this dish?

Cherry tomatoes are ideal for their natural sweetness and juiciness, but if you can’t find them, grape tomatoes or small vine-ripened tomatoes will also work well. Look for firm, glossy skin and vibrant color.

How can I make this dish more flavorful?

Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during the garlic sautéeing stage for subtle heat, or finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving to brighten the flavors further.

Final Thoughts

This Tomato Ricotta Pasta Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can create something truly special and satisfying. Its creamy texture, juicy tomatoes, and fresh basil make it a dish you’ll want to make again and again. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how effortlessly delicious weeknight dinners can be!

Print