There's nothing quite like a bowl of Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta to brighten up your dinner table. This dish is light yet indulgent, with velvety ricotta cheese, a burst of fresh lemon, and perfectly cooked pasta coming together in a beautifully simple way. The combination of creamy and citrusy flavors makes it perfect for warm-weather meals or a quick, satisfying weeknight dinner.

I first discovered this recipe when looking for a quick but impressive dish to serve guests. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, I created a pasta that felt elegant but took less than 30 minutes to prepare. It has since become one of my go-to meals whenever I need something comforting yet vibrant.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite pasta dish. This Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta is the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors.

First, it's incredibly quick and easy. You can whip up this dish in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.

Second, it's made with simple, wholesome ingredients. With a short ingredient list, you likely already have everything you need in your kitchen.

Not only is it easy to make, but it's also budget-friendly. There's no need for expensive ingredients—just pasta, ricotta, lemon, and a few seasonings are enough to create something spectacular.

Lastly, this recipe is versatile. You can add vegetables, swap out the pasta type, or even throw in some protein to make it your own.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one contributes to the overall richness and brightness of the dish.

Ricotta cheese is the star of the show. It provides a creamy, luscious base without the heaviness of a traditional cream sauce. Use whole milk ricotta for the best texture and flavor.

Lemon zest and juice add the perfect amount of tang and freshness. The zest gives an aromatic citrusy punch, while the juice balances the richness of the ricotta.

Pasta choice matters! I recommend spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine, as their long strands work beautifully with the silky sauce. However, short pasta like penne or rigatoni can also hold onto the sauce well.

Olive oil and garlic bring depth to the dish. A quick sauté of fresh garlic in olive oil creates a flavorful base before mixing in the ricotta.

You’ll also need Parmesan cheese, which adds a salty, umami kick that enhances the flavors of the ricotta and lemon.

If you want to elevate this dish, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley adds color and an extra layer of freshness.

How To Make This Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Making this dish is as simple as cooking pasta and stirring a few ingredients together. Here’s how it all comes together:

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta until al dente according to the package instructions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

While the pasta is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, grated Parmesan, and a drizzle of olive oil. Stir until smooth and creamy.

In a large skillet over medium heat, warm a bit of olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. This should only take about a minute—be careful not to burn it!

Lower the heat and add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet. Toss gently to coat in the garlic oil. Then, add the ricotta mixture, stirring continuously as you slowly pour in reserved pasta water. This helps create a silky, smooth sauce that evenly coats every strand of pasta.

Once the pasta is well-coated, remove from heat and adjust seasoning. Add salt, black pepper, and a little extra Parmesan if desired.

Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs and an extra squeeze of lemon for an extra burst of flavor.

Storage Options

This Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can still be delicious with the right storage and reheating methods.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta may absorb some of the sauce as it sits, so it might be a bit thicker upon reheating.

To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over low heat and add a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce. Stir gently until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the sauce to separate.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is a great base, but there are plenty of ways to make it your own!

If you want to add protein, grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy pancetta are excellent options that pair well with the creamy lemon sauce.

For a veggie boost, try adding sautéed spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes. They add both color and extra nutrients.

Want a vegan version? Swap ricotta for a plant-based alternative or blend silken tofu with a bit of lemon juice and nutritional yeast for a similar creamy texture.

For a gluten-free option, simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta—just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Experiment with different cheeses by swapping Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or adding a dollop of mascarpone for an even richer sauce.

Ready to Try It?

This Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta is one of those recipes that feels gourmet but is surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or serving guests, it’s guaranteed to impress with its fresh and creamy flavors. Give it a try tonight and see for yourself!