Light, creamy, and bursting with fresh lemon flavor, this Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta is the kind of simple yet elegant dish that turns an ordinary night into something special. The tangy lemon pairs beautifully with rich ricotta and Parmesan, creating a velvety sauce that clings to every strand of pasta.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe
This dish is creamy yet refreshing—proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be heavy.
- Ready in just 20 minutes
- Creamy and bright with simple ingredients
- Perfect balance of savory, tangy, and cheesy flavors
- Vegetarian-friendly and easy to customize
- Great for family dinners or quick weeknight meals
- Feels luxurious but effortless
I first made this pasta after a long day, craving something cozy but not too rich. The first bite—bright, creamy, and a little garlicky—instantly became a favorite at my house. It’s like sunshine in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, fresh ingredients make this pasta shine with flavor and texture.
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or your favorite shape)
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Optional Add-Ons or Substitutes
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein
- Use part-skim ricotta for a lighter version
- Substitute pecorino for a sharper cheese flavor
- Add sautéed spinach or peas for color
- Drizzle a little honey for a sweet contrast
Step-by-Step Instructions
This pasta comes together fast, so have your ingredients prepped before you start.
- Cook the pasta.
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water before draining. - Sauté the garlic.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, not browned. - Make the sauce base.
In a bowl, whisk together ricotta, Parmesan, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth. Add a pinch of salt and black pepper. - Combine pasta and sauce.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with the ricotta mixture and a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss over low heat until the sauce becomes creamy and coats the noodles evenly. - Adjust and garnish.
Taste and adjust seasoning with more lemon juice, salt, or pepper as desired. Top with fresh basil or parsley and extra Parmesan.
Quick reminders before serving:
- Don’t overheat the ricotta—it can curdle
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest texture
- Add pasta water gradually to reach your perfect creaminess
- Serve immediately for best flavor and consistency
Expert Tips for Success
A few small touches make this pasta irresistibly creamy and flavorful.
- Always zest the lemon before juicing for maximum aroma
- Mix sauce off-heat to avoid grainy texture
- Use a high-quality ricotta for the creamiest result
- Pair with Garlic Parmesan Dinner Rolls for a full meal
- Try Cranberry Brie Cinnamon Puff Pastry Swirls for a sweet finish
- Add fresh herbs right before serving to preserve their color
- Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs for texture
It’s one of those dishes where every ingredient has a purpose—and the result is pure comfort.
Serving Suggestions
This bright, creamy pasta pairs beautifully with simple sides and light proteins.
- Serve with a crisp garden salad and balsamic dressing
- Pair with roasted vegetables or asparagus
- Add alongside Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta for a complete meal
- Garnish with lemon slices and cracked black pepper for presentation
- Perfect for spring dinners or cozy nights at home
Every forkful bursts with freshness, making it hard not to go back for seconds.
Storing and Reheating
This dish stores well but should be reheated gently to keep its creamy texture.
How to Store It
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Cool completely before refrigerating
- Avoid freezing—it changes the creamy consistency
- Keep herbs separate to add fresh before serving
How to Reheat It
- Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or milk
- Stir constantly to keep it smooth
- Avoid high heat—it may cause the sauce to separate
- Refresh with a squeeze of lemon juice before serving
The sauce stays creamy and delicious even the next day.
Estimated Nutrition (per serving):
Calories: 425 | Protein: 15g | Fat: 18g | Carbohydrates: 50g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make it without lemon?
Yes, but the lemon brings the bright flavor that defines this dish—try substituting with a splash of white wine vinegar instead.
Can I use another cheese?
Mascarpone or cream cheese can work in place of ricotta for extra richness.
Is it good for meal prep?
Absolutely—just store the sauce and pasta separately for best results.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta is simplicity at its finest—a bright, tangy dish that feels indulgent yet refreshing. It’s proof that a few high-quality ingredients can create something unforgettable.
- Mix off heat for a perfectly smooth sauce
- Adjust lemon juice to your taste
- Serve fresh and enjoy every bite
It’s light, creamy, and full of sunshine—a true comfort dish with a zesty twist.
Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic (and red pepper flakes if using) and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- In a bowl, whisk together ricotta, grated Parmesan, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Add the ricotta mixture and reserved pasta water. Toss gently over low heat until the sauce becomes creamy and coats the pasta evenly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more lemon juice, salt, or pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.
Nutrition
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest texture. Mix the sauce off heat to avoid graininess.
- Adjust lemon juice and pasta‑water amount to control creaminess. Estimated cook times based on typical pasta and sauce prep.
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