This Tomato Ricotta Pasta is the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and tangy flavors. Fresh (or canned) tomatoes are simmered into a quick sauce, then combined with creamy ricotta cheese and tossed with pasta for a dish that feels both indulgent and light. It’s ready in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy – on the table in under 30 minutes.
- Creamy without heavy cream – ricotta cheese makes the sauce velvety and light.
- Simple ingredients – pantry staples with fresh flavors.
- Family-friendly – mild and comforting, yet elegant enough for guests.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (rigatoni, penne, or spaghetti)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes (or 4 cups fresh tomatoes, diced)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- Extra Parmesan & basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
- Make Tomato Sauce – In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until soft (about 3 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Simmer – Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–12 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add Ricotta & Parmesan – Lower heat and stir in ricotta cheese and Parmesan until creamy and well blended.
- Toss Pasta – Add drained pasta to the sauce, along with a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Mix well until every piece is coated.
- Serve – Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- Roast the tomatoes – For deeper flavor, roast fresh tomatoes with olive oil and garlic before adding.
- Make it spicy – Add extra chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil.
- Add protein – Stir in cooked Italian sausage, ground turkey, or grilled chicken.
- Vegetarian boost – Toss in spinach, zucchini, or roasted eggplant.
What to Serve With Tomato Ricotta Pasta
- A crisp arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette 🥗
- Garlic bread or focaccia 🥖
- A light glass of red wine or sparkling water 🍷
✨ This Tomato Ricotta Pasta is creamy, cozy, and satisfying—without being heavy. It’s the kind of pasta you’ll want to make again and again!