Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta: A Simple and Satisfying Midday Meal

There’s something so comforting about a bowl of pasta that’s both creamy and tangy. This Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta became one of my go-to midday meals during a hectic week when I had little time to spare, but still craved something rich, filling, and homemade. I remember opening my fridge, spotting a tub of ricotta and a few ripe tomatoes, and deciding to just “whip something up.” That experiment turned into a reliable favorite — one I now look forward to making whenever I need something quick yet deeply satisfying.

What I especially love about this recipe is how effortlessly it comes together. It doesn’t require fancy ingredients or long hours at the stove. In fact, I often make it between tasks or while prepping other things for the day. The velvety sauce clings to every strand of pasta, and the subtle richness of ricotta paired with bright tomato flavor is just irresistible.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This pasta dish hits all the right notes — it’s creamy, zesty, comforting, and incredibly easy to put together. It feels indulgent without being heavy, and it satisfies those pasta cravings without requiring a big production. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or need something quick for family or friends, this recipe never fails to impress.

Versatile

One of my favorite things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can add in sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, sprinkle it with grilled chicken, or top it with a handful of fresh basil or arugula for a peppery bite. It also works with any pasta shape you have on hand — penne, rigatoni, fusilli, or spaghetti. Whether you’re going meatless or adding your favorite protein, this pasta adapts to your needs.

Affordable

Another big bonus: it’s budget-friendly. With just a handful of pantry and fridge staples, you get a flavorful meal that feels gourmet. Ricotta, canned or fresh tomatoes, garlic, pasta, and a few spices — that’s all it takes. No need to break the bank to enjoy something delicious and wholesome.

Ingredients for the Recipe

• 250g pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your favorite shape)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 cup crushed tomatoes (canned or fresh)

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• ¾ cup ricotta cheese

• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan (optional, for garnish)

• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

How to Prepare This Recipe

Making Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta is one of the easiest and most satisfying things you can do with basic kitchen staples. It all starts with boiling pasta and ends with a rich, creamy sauce coating every bite. This is one of those dishes that delivers big flavor with little effort — ideal for busy days or when you’re craving something home-cooked and cozy. Let me walk you through the process.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation

1. Cook the pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add the pasta and cook it until just al dente according to the package directions. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once done, reserve about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.

2. Sauté the garlic
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown — the goal is to infuse the oil and build a flavorful base.

3. Add tomatoes and spices
Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes. Stir well to combine with the garlic. Add the dried oregano, a pinch of red pepper flakes (if you like a little kick), and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Simmer the sauce gently for about 5 to 7 minutes, letting the flavors deepen.

4. Stir in the ricotta
Reduce the heat to low. Add the ricotta cheese to the tomato sauce. Stir it gently until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up to your desired consistency.

5. Combine with pasta
Add the cooked pasta directly into the sauce. Toss it thoroughly so that each piece of pasta is evenly coated. Add more pasta water if needed to help the sauce cling to the pasta. Taste again and adjust seasoning if necessary.

6. Garnish and serve
Once the pasta is fully coated and heated through, divide it onto plates or bowls. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan if you’re using it, and top with fresh basil leaves for a final touch of color and freshness.

Quick and Easy

This recipe is ready in under 25 minutes, from start to finish. There’s no need to use multiple pots and pans or spend hours prepping. The pasta boils while the sauce simmers, and it all comes together in a single skillet at the end. It’s the perfect answer to the question, “What can I make fast but still enjoy?”

Customizable

One of the joys of this dish is how easily it can be customized. You can add a handful of sautéed spinach or kale for a green boost, toss in cooked chicken or turkey bacon for extra protein, or even mix in roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added depth. Want it extra cheesy? Stir in shredded mozzarella before serving. Like it spicy? Add extra chili flakes or a touch of cayenne. The base is solid, but there’s always room to make it your own.

Popular with Many People

This pasta is consistently a hit with family and guests. It appeals to both kids and adults because it’s creamy without being heavy, and the flavors are bright yet mellow. It’s also vegetarian-friendly as-is, making it a crowd-pleaser no matter the occasion. I’ve served this at casual lunches and weeknight dinners, and it always disappears quickly. People are often surprised by how rich and satisfying it tastes with such simple ingredients.

It’s also ideal for meal prepping. You can make a big batch and keep it in the fridge for a couple of days. Just reheat gently with a splash of water or milk to refresh the creamy texture. The flavors even deepen after a day, making leftovers a delight.

Print

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh tomatoes work well in this recipe. Use about 2 cups of finely chopped ripe tomatoes. Sauté them longer until they break down into a soft, sauce-like texture before adding the ricotta.

Is there a substitute for ricotta cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta, you can use cottage cheese or cream cheese. However, ricotta gives the best creamy texture without becoming too heavy or greasy.

Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the full dish ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water or milk to bring back the creamy consistency.

What proteins pair well with this pasta?
Grilled chicken, turkey bacon, or even pan-seared shrimp make great additions. For a vegetarian option, try adding roasted chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms for extra substance.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes. Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so the swap is seamless.

How spicy is this pasta?
The spice level is completely up to you. The recipe includes a small amount of red pepper flakes, but you can reduce, omit, or increase them to suit your taste.

Will kids enjoy this dish?
Yes. It has a mild, creamy flavor and a smooth texture that’s very appealing to children. Just skip the red pepper flakes if they prefer things on the milder side.