Description
If you’re searching for an easy dinner idea that feels gourmet but takes less than 30 minutes, this 1-Pot Tomato Ricotta Pasta is your new go-to. Creamy ricotta melts into sweet-tart tomatoes to create a velvety, luscious sauce that clings to every piece of pasta. With just one pot, minimal ingredients, and maximum flavor, it’s a brilliant choice for quick dinners, cozy comfort meals, or even elegant gatherings. This is a healthy-ish recipe packed with protein and perfect for those looking for easy food ideas, quick weeknight recipes, or elevated pasta dishes without the fuss.
Ingredients
12 oz penne pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
2 cups cherry tomatoes or 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
3/4 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until just shy of al dente. Reserve 3/4 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 7–10 minutes until softened.
4. Lower the heat. Stir in the ricotta cheese and mix until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
5. Add the cooked pasta back to the pot. Toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches desired consistency.
6. Stir in grated Parmesan and fresh basil. Mix well and adjust seasoning if needed.
7. Serve hot with extra Parmesan and basil as garnish.
Notes
Always reduce the heat before adding ricotta to prevent curdling.
Use high-quality ricotta for a smoother, richer sauce.
Reserve more pasta water than you think—you might need it to reheat leftovers, too.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 45mg