Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Name: Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 12 oz spaghetti; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil, for garnish; Olive oil, for drizzling

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta on busy weeknights. The creamy texture of the ricotta paired with a bright, zesty lemon makes for such a delightful meal. Within just 20 minutes, I can prepare a dish that's not only quick but also incredibly satisfying. I appreciate how simple ingredients combine to create a luxurious sauce that clings to the pasta perfectly. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, and I can't wait for you to try it!

Created by

Keira Dalton

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:10:21.030Z

When I first experimented with Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta, I was blown away by the harmony of flavors. I combined creamy ricotta with fresh lemon juice and zest, creating a sauce that was both comforting and invigorating. The key is to reserve a little pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency, which ensures it clings beautifully to the pasta.

As I continued making this dish, I discovered that adding a pinch of nutmeg truly elevates the flavors. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference, enhancing the creaminess of the ricotta. This pasta has become a go-to for unexpected guests or a cozy dinner at home.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bright citrus flavor that refreshes your palate
Creamy ricotta that adds richness and comfort
Quick and easy, perfect for weeknight dinners

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta is undoubtedly the ricotta cheese. It provides a rich, creamy texture that perfectly balances the zesty lemon flavors. Look for a quality ricotta that is smooth and slightly sweet, which helps to create a luxurious sauce. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using part-skim ricotta; it will still provide creaminess but with slightly fewer calories.

Lemon is essential in this recipe, both for its juice and zest. The zest releases fragrant oils that enhance the dish’s aroma and flavor profile, adding a refreshing note. Always zest your lemons before juicing them; it’s nearly impossible to zest a lemon once it’s been cut. If you’re out of lemons, lemon juice and zest can be substituted with a splash of white wine vinegar and a pinch of sugar to mimic a hint of citrus.

Cooking Technique Tips

When cooking the spaghetti, ensure the water is boiling vigorously before adding pasta. This will prevent the noodles from becoming sticky. Stir the pasta during the first couple of minutes to keep it separated. Cooking until al dente is key; this allows the pasta to retain a slight bite that complements the creamy sauce wonderfully. Taste a strand a minute or two before the package time ends to get it just right.

Achieving the perfect consistency in your sauce is crucial. After combining the ricotta, lemon juice, and zest, look for a creamy, smooth texture. If the mixture feels too thick, gradually add your reserved pasta cooking water. This starchy water not only adjusts the thickness but also helps the sauce adhere to the spaghetti. A silky finish is what you're aiming for—serve immediately for the best texture.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a delicious pasta dish.

Ingredients

12 oz spaghetti
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil, for garnish
Olive oil, for drizzling

Make sure to have fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a creamy and delicious pasta.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, and grated Parmesan. Mix until smooth and creamy, then season with salt and pepper.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the ricotta mixture. Toss gently to coat, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired creaminess is achieved.

Serve

Plate the pasta, garnish with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil, and enjoy your meal!

This simple yet elegant dish is ready in no time.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding sautéed spinach or cherry tomatoes to the pasta before serving.

Storage Tips

Leftovers from this Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of olive oil or a bit of reserved pasta water to the dish when warming it up to restore its creaminess. For best results, gently warm it on the stove over low heat rather than using the microwave, which can cause the ricotta to become grainy.

If you'd like to make this dish ahead of time, consider prepping the sauce in advance and storing it separately. Simply combine the ricotta mixture and refrigerate for a day before cooking the pasta. This way, when you’re ready for a quick meal, all you have to do is cook the spaghetti and mix it with the sauce, saving you precious time during busy evenings.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta dish is very versatile and pairs wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving it with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The peppery notes of arugula will complement the creaminess of the ricotta and the tanginess of the lemon beautifully. For an Italian twist, a side of garlic bread could also be the perfect accompaniment.

Garnishing is an important aspect to enhance not only the flavor but the visual appeal of your dish. Fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also a sweet, herbal note that elevates the entire dish. You can also experiment with grated lemon peel as a garnish for added zestiness right before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape will work, but I recommend shapes that hold sauce well, like fusilli or penne.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead and cook the pasta just before serving.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but the pasta may lose some creaminess upon reheating.

→ Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this dish is vegetarian-friendly due to its use of ricotta cheese and fresh ingredients.