1-Pot Tomato Ricotta Pasta
1-Pot Tomato Ricotta Pasta is a delightful dish that brings the warmth and comfort of Italian cuisine to your kitchen. Imagine a creamy, saucy pasta that captures the essence of ripe tomatoes and rich ricotta, all thanks to just one pot! This recipe is not only incredibly easy to prepare but also perfect for a weeknight family dinner, making it a must-try for pasta lovers everywhere. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, you’ll crave this comforting meal again and again. Get ready to gather your loved ones for a satisfying, aroma-filled dinner that’s one hundred percent worth making!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This 1-Pot Tomato Ricotta Pasta stands out as a quintessential choice for those seeking a quick, family-friendly meal. With its simplicity and straightforward preparation, it significantly cuts down kitchen time. Imagine tossing everything into one pot, letting the flavors mingle, and serving up a hearty dish in under 30 minutes! It requires just a handful of ingredients, making it accessible for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. Plus, the delightful combination of creamy ricotta and zesty tomatoes will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients for 1-Pot Tomato Ricotta Pasta
For this robust and savory dish, you will need:
- 12 oz penne pasta – these tubular noodles hold onto the sauce beautifully, providing a hearty base.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – infused with flavor, this oil will help sauté the garlic and create a silky sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – aromatic and slightly sweet when cooked, garlic is essential in making the sauce rich.
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes – adds the perfect touch of heat to awaken the taste buds.
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes or 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – bursting with flavor and color, tomatoes are the star of the dish.
- 1/2 tsp salt – enhances all the flavors.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper – adds warmth and depth to the sauce.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese – creamy and indulgent, it forms the base of the luscious sauce.
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese – provides a salty, nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped – brightens the dish with a fresh herbal note.
- 3/4 cup reserved pasta water (as needed) – helps adjust the sauce’s consistency to perfection.
Step-by-Step Directions
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Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This is crucial for ensuring your pasta is flavorful. Add the penne pasta and cook until it’s just shy of al dente. It’s an essential step, as the pasta will finish cooking in the sauce. Remember to reserve 3/4 cup of pasta water before draining!
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In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, infusing your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
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Next, add the cherry tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes to the pot. Season generously with salt and pepper, then simmer for 7–10 minutes until softened. This step is crucial for allowing the tomatoes to break down and create a flavorful sauce.
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Once the tomatoes are tender, lower the heat and stir in the ricotta cheese. Mix well until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth, enveloping you in its comforting embrace.
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Now, add the cooked pasta back to the pot. Toss everything together to coat the pasta in that luscious sauce. Adjust the consistency by adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired creaminess.
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Stir in the grated Parmesan and fresh basil. Mix thoroughly and adjust seasoning if necessary. The fragrant basil will elevate the entire dish.
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Finally, serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and basil. This adds a beautiful finishing touch and allows you to enjoy the vibrant colors of the dish!
Tips & Tricks
To ensure your 1-Pot Tomato Ricotta Pasta is a hit, consider these simple tips:
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh basil and ripe tomatoes make a significant difference in flavor. If using canned tomatoes, opt for a high-quality brand for the best taste.
- Customize the spice: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of crushed red pepper or omit it altogether. You can always serve it on the side for those who enjoy a kick!
- Add extra veggies: Sneak in some spinach or zucchini for added nutrition.
- Make it your own: Feel free to swap the type of pasta or add your favorite protein, like grilled chicken or shrimp, to create a heartier meal.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
For a complete dining experience with your 1-Pot Tomato Ricotta Pasta, consider serving it alongside a simple green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette. The crisp lettuce and tangy dressing contrast beautifully with the creamy pasta, balancing the meal. Fresh garlic bread is another wonderful addition, perfect for soaking up that luscious sauce. Pair the dish with a light, refreshing sparkling water or a glass of non-alcoholic wine for an elegant touch.
Nutritional Information
The 1-Pot Tomato Ricotta Pasta is not only satisfying but also provides a well-rounded meal. This dish serves approximately four people, with each serving containing around 350-400 calories. You’ve got carbohydrates from the pasta, healthy fats from the olive oil, and protein from the ricotta and Parmesan cheese. To make it even healthier, consider using whole grain pasta for added fiber!
Storing Tips & Variations for 1-Pot Tomato Ricotta Pasta
This dish is perfect for meal prep! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of reserved pasta water to bring back the creamy consistency.
For variations, try adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even a handful of arugula for a peppery kick. You might also experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese for a tangy twist!
Conclusion for 1-Pot Tomato Ricotta Pasta
Don’t wait any longer to treat yourself to this delightful 1-Pot Tomato Ricotta Pasta. With its creamy texture, vibrant flavors, and simple preparation, it’s a dish that promises both satisfaction and enjoyment for you and your family. Try this recipe today and make your next meal special!
FAQs
1. Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works just as well. Just be mindful of cook times, as they can vary.
2. How long does this pasta keep in the fridge?
This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
3. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze this pasta! Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container and consumed within 2-3 months.
4. What can I serve with this dish?
Pair it with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or a light vegetable side for a complete meal.
5. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian! However, you can add vegetables to make it even heartier. Enjoy!
1-Pot Tomato Ricotta Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy, saucy pasta that captures the essence of ripe tomatoes and rich ricotta, all prepared in just one pot.
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
- 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.
- In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the cherry tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes to the pot. Season with salt and pepper, then simmer for 7–10 minutes until softened.
- Lower the heat and stir in the ricotta cheese, mixing until creamy and smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta back to the pot. Toss to coat in the sauce, adjusting with reserved pasta water as needed.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan and fresh basil, mixing thoroughly. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and basil.
Notes
For added flavor, use fresh ingredients and consider swapping in different vegetables or proteins.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
