Tomato Ricotta Pasta Recipe
A simple and creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta recipe that combines al dente rigatoni or penne with a luscious ricotta cheese sauce and sweet sautéed cherry tomatoes, finished with fresh basil for a delightful Italian-inspired meal that’s quick to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Author: Ava
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Pasta
- 8 oz rigatoni or penne pasta
Sauce and Toppings
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Black pepper to taste
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni or penne according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook cherry tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until they soften and release their juices, stirring occasionally.
- Combine pasta and ricotta: Reduce heat to low and stir in the ricotta cheese until it creates a creamy sauce. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle fresh basil leaves and season with black pepper to taste. Serve the pasta warm for a fresh and comforting meal.
Notes
- Use fresh ricotta for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
- Cherry tomatoes can be substituted with grape tomatoes or chopped regular tomatoes.
- Adjust garlic quantity based on preference for more or less pungency.
- Add a pinch of red chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Serve with grated Parmesan cheese if desired for extra flavor.
Keywords: Tomato Ricotta Pasta, Creamy Pasta, Easy Italian Recipe, Vegetarian Pasta, Weeknight Dinner