This creamy lemon ricotta pasta is a refreshing, tangy twist on comfort food.
With a light and silky ricotta sauce infused with lemon zest and Parmesan, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner that feels fancy but takes just 20 minutes to make!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick & easy: Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
Bright and creamy: The lemon zest adds a fresh burst of flavor that balances the richness of the ricotta.
Versatile: Add spinach, basil, or red pepper flakes to customize the flavor.
Family-friendly: Kids and adults both love the creamy texture and mild taste.
Ingredient Highlights
Pasta – Use your favorite short or long pasta like penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti.
Whole-milk ricotta – Creates the rich, creamy base of the sauce.
Parmesan cheese – Adds salty depth and umami to the dish.
Lemon zest and juice – For a tangy, refreshing finish.
Olive oil and garlic – The fragrant foundation of the sauce.
Pasta water – Helps emulsify and thin the sauce for that silky texture.
Optional mix-ins – Spinach, red pepper flakes, or fresh basil for added color and taste.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use whole-milk ricotta for the creamiest texture—it blends beautifully with the Parmesan.
Salt your pasta water well, like the sea—it’s your first layer of flavor.
Don’t skip the pasta water—it’s key to thinning and emulsifying the sauce.
Zest the lemon before juicing for easier handling and full citrus flavor.
Serve immediately for the best texture, as ricotta sauces thicken as they cool.
How to Make Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil your pasta in salted water until al dente.
Reserve about half a cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add garlic and cook until just fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Reduce heat to low and stir in ricotta, Parmesan, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Adjust Consistency
Add a splash of reserved pasta water to thin the sauce.
Stir and add more as needed for a silky consistency.
Step 5: Season the Sauce
Season with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Serve hot with fresh basil or baby spinach on top, and sprinkle extra Parmesan if desired.
What to Serve It With
A simple green salad with vinaigrette
Garlic bread or toasted ciabatta
Grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein
A glass of chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
Variations & Substitutions
Add greens: Stir in baby spinach or arugula until wilted.
Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
Go gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
No ricotta? Substitute with mascarpone or a blend of cream cheese and Greek yogurt.
Add protein: Top with grilled chicken, roasted chickpeas, or seared scallops.
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stove with a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce.
Freezing not recommended as ricotta can become grainy when frozen.
FAQs
How do I make the sauce smoother?
Use whole-milk ricotta and stir in pasta water gradually while mixing for a creamy, silky texture.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the sauce ingredients and cook the pasta ahead, but assemble just before serving for best texture.
What’s the best pasta shape for this sauce?
Short shapes like penne or rigatoni hold the sauce well, but spaghetti works beautifully too.
Can I add veggies to this dish?
Yes! Try spinach, peas, or roasted zucchini for a nutritious boost.
Is this good for meal prep?
It’s best fresh, but leftovers can be enjoyed for lunch the next day with a quick reheat.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just be sure to save enough pasta water and stir the sauce thoroughly.
Is it vegetarian?
Yes, it’s a great vegetarian meal! Just check that your Parmesan is vegetarian-friendly.
Final Thoughts
This creamy lemon ricotta pasta is comfort food with a burst of brightness.
I love how easy it is to pull together on a weeknight but still feels like a restaurant-worthy dish.
Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this pasta is guaranteed to satisfy with its rich, lemony goodness.
