Quick & Creamy Ricotta Pesto Pasta

If you’re looking for a pasta dish that combines the best of creamy comfort with fresh, vibrant flavors, then this homemade ricotta pesto pasta is about to become your new favorite.

This pesto ricotta pasta brings together the richness of ricotta cheese and the aromatic goodness of homemade pesto, creating a dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple to prepare.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a cozy date night, or just need a quick and delicious meal after a busy day, this pasta checks all the boxes.

Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also highly versatile, making it a staple in any kitchen. With options for adding proteins, swapping out herbs, or making it gluten-free, there’s a version of this pasta for everyone. And the best part?

This pesto recipe comes together in 20 minutes or less, so you can enjoy a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

In this recipe, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make this ricotta pesto pasta, from making this dish your own to expert tips that will elevate this dish to the next level. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, you’ll find this recipe is both approachable and endlessly rewarding. Let’s dive in!

Jump to:

• ❤️ Why You’ll Love This Ricotta Pesto Pasta
• 🥗 Is Ricotta Pesto Pasta Healthy?
• 🥘 Ingredients
• 🔪 How to Make Ricotta Pesto Pasta
• ⭐ Expert Tips
• 🌿 Types of Pesto You Can Use
• 📋 Substitutions
• 🧀 Substitutions for Ricotta
• 📖 Variations
• 🍗 Protein Ideas for Ricotta Pesto Pasta
• 🍽 Equipment Needed
• 🍞 How to Make This Pasta Gluten-Free
• 🥣 Storing Tips
• 🍳 Reheating Ricotta Peso Pasta
• 💭 Frequently Asked Questions
• 🍲 What to Serve with Ricotta Pesto Pasta
• 🍷 Beverage Pairings
• 🍝 Try These Other Italian-Style Recipes
• Quick & Creamy Ricotta Pesto Pasta
• 💬 Comments

❤️ Why You’ll Love This Ricotta Pesto Pasta

Quick & Easy to Make: In 20 minutes or less, you can have a satisfying and filling meal for you and your family. This easy pesto recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.

Bright & Fresh Flavors: The combination of fresh basil, lemon zest, and mixed herbs gives this pasta a vibrant, zesty taste perfect for any season.

You Can Meal Prep This Pasta Dish: Looking for a healthy meal idea for next week’s lunches? Double the recipe and portion out each serving of ricotta pesto pasta with a side of protein and veggies, for a protein-packed meal.

It’s Highly Versatile & Customizable: Whether you’re looking to add protein, incorporate more veggies, or enjoy it as is, this recipe is highly adaptable to suit your preferences.

Family-Friendly: The mild, creamy sauce is a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a go-to option for family dinners that everyone will enjoy.

🥗 Is Ricotta Pesto Pasta Healthy?

Yes, it is! The ricotta cheese provides a creamy texture and adds protein, while the pesto sauce made with fresh herbs and olive oil offers a dose of healthy fats and antioxidants.

By using whole-grain or gluten-free pasta, you can increase the fiber content, making it a balanced meal suitable for various dietary needs.

Make it even healthier by swapping out regular pasta for chickpea or lentil pasta. The chickpeas and lentils can add an extra 20 grams of protein per serving!

🥘 Ingredients

Pasta Dish

• Pasta: This wouldn’t be pesto pasta without the pasta. In this recipe, I used 12 oz. of Fusilli pasta. However, you can use any variety you want, including spaghetti, linguine, rigatoni, orecchiette, among others.
  
• Pasta Water: When you’re almost done cooking the pasta, reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water. You’ll add this back into the pan when you combine your ricotta pesto and pasta. The starchy water will thin the ricotta pesto sauce to the right consistency and help the sauce cling to the pasta.
  
• Basil: Chop some fresh basil leaves, julienned. Use this as a garnish to further freshen up the flavors of the ricotta pesto pasta.
  
• Lemon Zest: I recommend using lemon zest as another flavorful garnish. It will give the dish an extra layer of added zing!
  
• Parmesan Cheese: Add an extra 2 tbs. of grated or shredded parmesan cheese for garnish.

Ricotta Pesto Sauce

• Fresh Basil Leaves: A classic and essential ingredient to pesto sauce, fresh basil leaves will leave a fresh, herby, and aromatic flavor. I recommend adding 2 packed cups of fresh basil leaves.
  
• Fresh Mixed Herbs: If you want to take the flavor of this pesto ricotta sauce to the next level, add a cup of fresh mixed herbs. My favorites are a mixture of oregano, arugula, and parsley.
  
• Garlic: Pack a spicy zing with 2 cloves of garlic, roughly chopped.
  
• Lemon Juice: Traditional pesto doesn’t call for lemon juice. However, every time I make pesto, I have to add lemon zest and lemon juice. Personally, I don’t think pesto tastes as good without the lemon. For this recipe, add 2 tbs. of lemon juice.
  
• Parmesan: Add 2 tbs. of grated parmesan, or even grated pecorino romano if you have it. Adding one of these cheeses will increase its creamy texture and salty, nutty flavor.
  
• Pine Nuts: A classic, traditional ingredient for pesto, I suggest adding ¼ cup of pine nuts for an extra nutty flavor.
  
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Before you add the oil, your sauce will be more of a paste. You’ll want to add ⅓ cup of cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil to make a runnier and smoother ricotta pasta sauce.
  
• Salt & Pepper: This homemade ricotta pesto pasta sauce couldn’t be as flavorful without the salt and pepper. You only need to add ½ teaspoon of each.
  
• Ricotta Cheese: Add ½ cup of ricotta to make this dish extra creamy. Plus, it’ll add a boost of protein. For the richest taste, use whole milk ricotta.
  
• Lemon Zest: Add the zest of one lemon to intensify the lemon flavor in your ricotta pesto.
  

🔪 How to Make Ricotta Pesto Pasta

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente, about 10 minutes.
   
2. Prepare the Ricotta Pesto Sauce: While the pasta is cooking, combine all of the pesto ricotta ingredients in a food processor, and blend until smooth. Adjust the salt and pepper if needed.
   
3. Drain the Pasta: Drain the pasta, reserving ¼ cup of pasta water for the sauce.
   
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Heat a frying pan or the pot you cooked the pasta in over medium-high heat. Pour in the ricotta pesto pasta sauce, and ¼ cup reserved pasta water, stirring until you create a sauce. Add the pasta to the sauce, mixing until well-coated. Take the pan off the heat.
   
5. Serve Pesto Ricotta Pasta: Garnish with basil, parmesan cheese, lemon zest, or red pepper flakes. Enjoy your creamy, flavorful ricotta pesto pasta!
   

⭐ Expert Tips

• Balancing Acidity: If the sauce tastes too sharp or acidic due to the lemon juice, balance it out by adding a small amount of honey or sugar. Start with just ¼ teaspoon and adjust to taste. This will mellow the acidity while keeping the bright flavors intact.
  
• Boosting Herb Flavor: To intensify the herb flavors, blanch the basil and other herbs in boiling water for just 10 seconds, then plunge them into an ice bath. This technique preserves the vibrant green color and can enhance the aromatic oils, making your pesto even more flavorful.
  
• Creamier Sauce: For an extra creamy sauce, add a tablespoon of mascarpone or cream cheese to the ricotta pesto mixture. This will make the sauce richer and smoother without overpowering the fresh herb flavors.
  
• Enhancing Nutty Depth: In addition to toasting the pine nuts, consider blending a small amount of browned butter into the pesto. Browned butter adds a deep, nutty flavor that complements the richness of the ricotta and the freshness of the basil.
  
• Customizing Texture: If you prefer a chunkier pesto, pulse the ingredients in the food processor just until they are combined but still slightly coarse. For a smoother texture, blend until completely smooth and creamy, adding a little more olive oil or pasta water as needed.
  
• Adding Umami: Incorporate a spoonful of miso paste into the pesto for a boost of umami. Miso adds a savory depth that pairs well with the nutty and creamy elements of the sauce.
  
• Perfecting the Pasta: For optimal texture, cook the pasta just shy of al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when tossed in the warm sauce. This helps the pasta absorb more flavor without becoming mushy.
  
• Finishing with Freshness: Just before serving, stir in a handful of fresh, finely chopped herbs (like basil or parsley) to refresh the flavors and add a burst of color to the dish.
  
• Elevating Garnishes: For an extra touch of flavor, garnish the pasta with shaved truffle or a drizzle of truffle oil. The earthy notes of truffle pair beautifully with the creamy ricotta and aromatic pesto.

These tips will not only enhance the flavor and texture of your ricotta pesto pasta but also allow for customization based on your preferences or the ingredients you have on hand.

🌿 Types of Pesto You Can Use

Traditional basil pesto is a classic choice you can use in this recipe. I created this pesto ricotta pasta with herb pesto pasta, which takes traditional pesto sauce, and adds additional herbs. This improves the overall flavor profile and makes it more dynamic and herby.

You can experiment with the following different types of pesto:

• Arugula Pesto: Adds a peppery kick.
• Spinach Pesto: A milder, nutrient-rich option.
• Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto: For a tangy, slightly sweet flavor.

📋 Substitutions

• Pasta: Use whole-grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier twist.
  
• Parmesan Cheese: Replace parmesan with pecorino romano cheese for a sharper taste or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
  
• Nuts: Substitute pine nuts with walnuts or almonds. Try my pesto without pine nuts recipe for ricotta pesto pasta!
  
• Ricotta: You can replace ricotta with a variety of other cheeses, including cottage cheese, mascarpone, and cream cheese. Read below for details on how to best use each ricotta cheese substitute.
  
• Basil: If you have little to no basil on hand, you can substitute for other herbs, such as parsley, cilantro, and mint. You can mix these alternative herbs with a variety of greens such as spinach, kale, and arugula. Just take note, if you don’t use basil, your pesto may taste differently.
  
• Lemon: Substitute lemon for 1 tsp. of vinegar. You can use apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar, or red wine vinegar.
  
• Olive Oil: Don’t have olive oil on hand? You can use avocado oil, grapeseed oil, walnut oil, or even flaxseed oil. Flaxseed has an earthy, slightly nutty flavor. It’s a healthy option that has many omega-3 fatty acids. Flaxseed oil has a distinct flavor that can enhance the already earthy flavors of the pesto.
  
• Garlic: Garlic powder is a quick and easy substitute that provides the essence of garlic without the need for fresh cloves. Garlic powder is less pungent than fresh garlic but still adds a familiar taste. Use about ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of garlic in the recipe. Start with less and adjust to taste. Other substitutes you can use are shallots and green onions.
  
• Mixed Herbs: If you don’t have mixed herbs, you can substitute the 1 cup of mixed herbs for extra basil. Alternatively, you can use a single herb instead of a variety. Pick one herb, like parsley or arugula to add to this ricotta pesto pasta.

🧀 Substitutions for Ricotta

Cottage Cheese:

• Why: Cottage cheese is the closest substitute in terms of texture and taste. It’s slightly less creamy but still provides a good level of moisture and a mild flavor.
  
• How to Use: For a smoother consistency, blend the cottage cheese in a food processor before adding it to the pesto. If you’re making your ricotta pesto from scratch, add it to the food processor with the rest of the pesto ingredients, and blend until smooth.
  

Greek Yogurt:

• Why: Greek yogurt offers a tangy flavor that can brighten up the dish, along with a creamy texture similar to ricotta.
  
• How to Use: Use full-fat Greek yogurt to maintain its richness. Keep in mind that Greek yogurt is more acidic, so you might want to reduce the lemon juice in the recipe.
  

Mascarpone:

• Why: Mascarpone is richer and creamier than ricotta, adding an extra layer of indulgence to the pasta.
  
• How to Use: Use the same amount of mascarpone as you would ricotta, but be prepared for a slightly sweeter and more decadent sauce.
  

Cream Cheese:

• Why: Cream cheese is thicker and tangier, making it a good substitute if you’re looking for a richer flavor.
  
• How to Use: Soften the cream cheese before blending it with the pesto ingredients to ensure it mixes smoothly. You can do this by leaving the cream cheese on your counter to bring it to room temperature.
  

Silken Tofu (for a dairy-free option):

• Why: Silken tofu is a great vegan alternative that provides a creamy texture without the dairy.
  
• How to Use: Blend the tofu until smooth and use it in place of ricotta. You may want to add a pinch of salt and a splash of lemon juice to mimic the tang of ricotta.

Blended White Beans:

• Why: White beans, such as cannellini or navy beans, can be blended into a creamy texture that’s high in protein and fiber, offering a nutritious alternative.
  
• How to Use: Blend the beans with a bit of olive oil and a splash of water to achieve a ricotta-like consistency. Adjust the seasoning as needed.

Ricotta Salata:

• Why: Ricotta salata is a firmer, saltier version of ricotta. It won’t provide the same creaminess but can be crumbled over the pasta for a different texture.
  
• How to Use: Use less ricotta salata than you would ricotta, and consider mixing it with a small amount of olive oil to soften it up.

Each of these substitutes will bring its own unique twist to the dish, so feel free to experiment and find the one that best suits your taste and dietary needs.

📖 Variations

• Ricotta Pesto Pasta with Peas: Add a cup of blanched peas to the pasta for a sweet pop of flavor and an extra serving of vegetables.
  
• Tomato and Spinach Ricotta Pesto Pasta: Stir in some fresh cherry tomatoes and baby spinach leaves for a colorful, nutrient-packed dish.
  
• Sun-dried Tomato and Artichoke Pesto Pasta: Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and marinated artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean flair.
  
• Protein-Packed Ricotta Pesto Pasta: Boost the protein content by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or cannellini beans.
  
• Veggie Power Ricotta Pesto Pasta: Toss in a mix of your favorite vegetables—like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms—for a hearty, plant-based meal.
  
• Truffle Ricotta Pesto Pasta: Add a drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of truffle salt to the pesto. The truffle’s earthy flavor will complement the creaminess of the ricotta. For an extra touch of richness, shave fresh truffle over the pasta just before serving.
  
• Baked Ricotta Pesto Casserole: Combine the pasta with extra ricotta and mozzarella, then bake it in the oven until bubbly and golden for a comforting casserole. Bake at 400°F for 30-60 minutes.

🍗 Protein Ideas for Ricotta Pesto Pasta

Grilled Chicken

• Flavor Pairing: Juicy, seasoned grilled chicken pairs well with the creamy ricotta and vibrant pesto.
  
• How to Add: Slice or dice grilled chicken breasts or thighs and mix them into the pasta. For a burst of flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon, garlic, and herbs before grilling.
  

Shrimp

• Flavor Pairing: Shrimp brings a sweet and slightly briny flavor that complements the fresh, herbaceous notes of pesto.
  
• How to Add: Sauté shrimp in olive oil with garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes until they’re pink and tender. Toss them with the pasta just before serving.
  

Italian Sausage

• Flavor Pairing: Italian sausage adds a savory, spicy element to the dish, balancing the richness of the ricotta.
  
• How to Add: Cook crumbled or sliced Italian sausage until browned, then mix it into the pasta. Both spicy and sweet varieties work well, depending on your taste preference. You can also try air frying Italian sausage for a quicker, crispier result.
  

Cannellini Beans

• Flavor Pairing: Creamy cannellini beans offer a mild flavor that blends seamlessly with the ricotta and pesto.
  
• How to Add: Drain and rinse a can of cannellini beans, then stir them into the pasta. They’re a great plant-based protein option that also adds extra creaminess.
  

Tofu

• Flavor Pairing: Tofu is a versatile, protein-rich addition that soaks up the flavors of the pesto.
  
• How to Add: Cube firm tofu and pan-fry until golden, then toss it with the pasta. For extra flavor, marinate the tofu in olive oil, garlic, and herbs before cooking.
  

Chickpeas

• Flavor Pairing: Chickpeas provide a nutty, earthy flavor that works well with the creamy pesto sauce.
  
• How to Add: Add chickpeas directly to the pasta, or roast them with olive oil and spices for a crunchy texture.
  

Bacon or Pancetta

• Flavor Pairing: Crispy bacon or pancetta adds a smoky, savory flavor that contrasts nicely with the fresh pesto.
  
• How to Add: Cook until crispy, and sprinkle over the pasta before serving. If you’re cooking bacon, chop it before or after you’ve cooked it.
  

Ground Turkey or Chicken

• Flavor Pairing: Ground turkey or chicken provides a lean protein option that easily absorbs the flavors of the pesto.
  
• How to Add: Sauté ground turkey or chicken with garlic, onion, and herbs until cooked through. Stir it into the pasta for a hearty, filling meal.
  

Eggs (Soft-Boiled or Poached)

• Flavor Pairing: A soft-boiled or poached egg adds richness, with the runny yolk creating an extra layer of creaminess in the sauce.
  
• How to Add: Place a soft-boiled or poached egg on top of the pasta just before serving.
  

Seared Scallops

• Flavor Pairing: Scallops offer a delicate, slightly sweet flavor that pairs elegantly with the pesto.
  
• How to Add: Sear scallops in a hot pan with butter until they develop a golden crust, then serve them on top of the pasta for a sophisticated twist.
  

Lentils

• Flavor Pairing: Lentils provide a hearty, earthy flavor and a good amount of plant-based protein.
  
• How to Add: Cook green or brown lentils until tender, then stir them into the pasta.
  

Ricotta and Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Flavor Pairing: Chicken breasts coated with a mixture of ricotta, Parmesan, and breadcrumbs add a crispy texture and savory flavor.
  
• How to Add: Prepare chicken breasts by spreading a layer of ricotta mixed with Parmesan and herbs on top, then bread and bake until golden and cooked through. Slice and serve with the pasta.
  

🍽 Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Food processor for making pesto
• Frying pan or the same pot for combining pasta and sauce
• Tongs or a spatula for mixing
  

🍞 How to Make This Pasta Gluten-Free

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap out the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety. Ensure that the pesto ingredients (like store-bought versions) are also certified gluten-free.

Gluten-free pasta can include lentil pasta, brown rice pasta, chickpea pasta, and pasta made from rice and corn.

🥣 Storing Tips

1. Refrigerating Leftovers

• How: Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
  
• Storage Duration: The pasta will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  
• Tip: When reheating, add a splash of water or milk to the pasta to help loosen the sauce and restore its creamy texture.
  

2. Freezing Ricotta Pesto Pasta

• How: For best results, freeze the pasta and sauce separately.
  
• Pasta: Toss the cooked pasta with a little olive oil to prevent sticking, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag.
  
• Pesto: Portion the ricotta pesto into ice cube trays or small containers and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag.
  
• Storage Duration: Both the pasta and pesto can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
  
• Tip: When ready to serve, thaw the pesto in the refrigerator overnight and reheat the pasta by quickly boiling it in water or microwaving it. Combine and heat gently in a pan.
  

3. Storing Pesto Separately

• How: If you anticipate having leftovers, store the creamy pesto sauce separately from the pasta.
  
• Storage Duration: Store the pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  
• Tip: To prevent the pesto from oxidizing and turning brown, cover the surface with a thin layer of olive oil or press plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing the container.

🍳 Reheating Ricotta Peso Pasta

• Stovetop: Reheat the pasta gently over medium-low heat in a pan, adding a little water, milk, or broth to help revive the sauce and prevent it from drying out.
  
• Microwave: Place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle with a little water, and cover loosely with a lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

💭 Frequently Asked Questions

🍲 What to Serve with Ricotta Pesto Pasta

Pair this pasta with a simple green salad and a slice of garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier meal, you can serve this pesto and ricotta pasta with grilled chicken or fish.

• Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: The peppery bite of arugula paired with a tangy lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the pasta. Add shaved Parmesan and toasted pine nuts for a bit of texture.
  
• Caprese Salad: A classic Italian salad with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze and extra virgin olive oil. The freshness of the tomatoes and the creaminess of the mozzarella perfectly complement the ricotta pesto pasta.
  
• Greek Salad: A vibrant mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, Kalamata olives, red onions, and feta cheese. The briny olives and salty feta provide a sharp contrast to the creamy pasta.
  
• Strawberry Basil Lemon Salad: A zesty, herby, and sweet salad paired perfectly with ricotta pesto pasta. Made with a base of spinach and arugula, and topped with mozzarella, fresh basil, freshly cut strawberries, and lemon zest. Get the recipe here.
  
• Minestrone: A hearty Italian vegetable soup with beans, pasta, and a tomato base. It’s a great way to start the meal with something warm and comforting.
  
• Tomato Basil Soup: A classic pairing with any pasta dish. This tangy, rich tomato soup complements the creamy ricotta and pesto, creating a satisfying combination.
  
• Cured Meats and Cheeses: An assortment of cured meats like prosciutto, salami, and coppa, along with cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano, Pecorino Romano cheese, and fresh mozzarella, provides a variety of flavors and textures that complement the pasta.
  
• Tomato Basil Bruschetta: Grilled or toasted slices of baguette topped with a mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and olive oil. This light and zesty appetizer adds a fresh element to the meal.
  
• Marinated Vegetables: Include marinated artichokes, olives, roasted red peppers, and sun-dried tomatoes. These add a savory and slightly tangy element to the meal.

🍷 Beverage Pairings

• White Wine: A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the freshness of the pesto and cuts through the richness of the ricotta.
  
• Sparkling Water with Lemon: If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a twist of lemon or lime is refreshing and helps cleanse the palate between bites.
  
• Iced Tea with Fresh Mint: A lightly sweetened iced tea with fresh mint leaves offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of this dish.

🍝 Try These Other Italian-Style Recipes

• Creamy Sausage Asparagus Pasta
• Homemade Meatballs with Spaghetti
• Tuna Pesto Pasta with Fried Capers
• Air Fryer Italian Sausage
• Quick Marinara Sauce
• Simple Homemade Pizza Sauce from Tomato Paste

Did you make this recipe?
Leave a ⭐ star recipe rating and comment below! Leaving a 5-star rating is the ultimate compliment and helps us grow! We’d love your feedback!