1-Pot Tomato Ricotta Pasta: A Simple and Flavorful Weeknight Meal

1-Pot Tomato Ricotta Pasta is your new go-to for a quick meal that’s bursting with flavor. The combination of creamy ricotta and sweet tomatoes creates a sumptuous texture that feels indulgent yet is incredibly simple to prepare. Perfect for meal prep or a last-minute dinner, this recipe promises to bring warmth to your table. One key technique is reserving pasta water, which helps achieve that silky sauce consistency you will love!

Table of Contents

Recipe at a Glance

Best for	Quick weeknight dinners
Difficulty	Easy
Total time	30 minutes
Servings	4
Key tip	Reserve pasta water for a silky sauce
Smart swap	Use zucchini noodles for a low-carb option

What Ingredients Do I Need for 1-Pot Tomato Ricotta Pasta?

In this recipe, you will need a few fresh and pantry-staple ingredients that come together beautifully. The focus ingredients are:

12 oz	Penne pasta
2 tbsp	Olive oil
3 cloves	Garlic, minced
1/2 tsp	Crushed red pepper flakes
2 cups	Cherry tomatoes or 14.5 oz canned 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	Pasta water (as needed)

Pasta is a staple in many households, and using penne in this dish provides a delightful bite. Substitute ricotta with cottage cheese for a lower-fat option that still retains a creamy texture. Fresh basil adds a fragrant touch that elevates the overall flavor while being rich in antioxidants. You can explore more about healthy eating with this refreshing salad.

Equipment Needed

– Large pot
– Cooking spoon
– Strainer
– Measuring cups and spoons

How Do You Make 1-Pot Tomato Ricotta Pasta, Step by Step?

This recipe is incredibly straightforward, making it accessible even for novice cooks. Here’s how to create your delicious one-pot dish.

Step 1

Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add in the penne pasta and cook until just shy of al dente, usually around 7-8 minutes, depending on the package instructions. Don’t forget to reserve 3/4 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.

Step 2

In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. This step infuses the oil with a rich aroma.

Prep Time	5 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Storage Time	3-4 days in the fridge
Calories	Approximately 420 per serving

Step 3

Once the garlic has sautéed, add in your tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. If using cherry tomatoes, cut them in half to help them soften quicker. Simmer everything for about 7-10 minutes, until the tomatoes are bursting and you have a chunky sauce forming. After that, combine the drained pasta with the tomato mixture. Stir in the ricotta and grated Parmesan cheese until well mixed.

Finally, carefully add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired sauce consistency. The heat will help the cheese melt beautifully, coating all the pasta with creamy goodness. Garnish with freshly chopped basil before serving for an added burst of flavor. Enjoy your delicious 1-Pot Tomato Ricotta Pasta hot, straight from the pot!

Common Mistakes to Avoid + Pro Tips for Success

When cooking, especially with pasta, it’s easy to make a few missteps that can affect the final dish. I’ve learned some valuable lessons over time that I would love to share with you.

Mistakes to Avoid

Not reserving pasta water	Failing to save pasta water makes it difficult to achieve the right sauce consistency. Always measure it out first!
Overcooking pasta	Cooking pasta beyond al dente results in mushiness. Taste test a minute before it’s supposed to be done.

Tips for Success

Use high-quality cheese	Investing in good ricotta and Parmesan transforms the dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
Experiment with herbs	Adding herbs like oregano or thyme can give the sauce an exciting twist. Feel free to get creative!

Remember, keeping an eye on the pasta and tasting as you go is key to ensuring the perfect texture and flavor.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

1-Pot Tomato Ricotta Pasta is a comforting dish that never fails to satisfy. The blend of flavors in this creamy pasta dish is genuinely delightful, and it comes together quickly, perfect for busy weeks.

Simple, Yet Satisfying

This dish speaks to me because, often, the best meals are the simplest ones. The creamy ricotta dances perfectly with sweet tomatoes, and every bite feels indulgent without being fussy.

Quick and Easy

With just a handful of ingredients and minimal clean-up, this recipe is perfect for those hectic evenings when time is tight. It takes less than 30 minutes, allowing for more time spent with family or relaxing.

Nutritious Comfort Food

The blend of pasta, dairy, and tomatoes comes together for a nourishing meal that satisfies without being too heavy. Plus, by using fresh basil, you add an extra layer of nutrition and flavor.

A Personal Touch

I love serving this dish with a crisp salad or some roasted veggies on the side. One surprise tip is to save any leftover pasta water; it can enhance a future pasta dish effortlessly!

Variations, Serving, and Storage Ideas

Adaptable dishes like this pasta are a joy to prepare, as they allow for personal touches. Here are some variations and tips that make this recipe even more exciting.

Low-Carb Variations

If you want a lighter option, consider using zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of penne. You can still enjoy the delicious flavors while reducing carbs significantly. Cabbage noodles could also be a fun, crunchy alternative!

Ingredient Swaps

To adjust flavors and textures, try using different cheeses, like goat cheese or even a vegan ricotta for a dairy-free version. If you’re out of cherry tomatoes, canned tomatoes work similarly and make preparation even easier. Feel free to explore with different veggies as well.

Perfect Pairings

For a delightful meal, serve this 1-Pot Tomato Ricotta Pasta alongside a fresh green salad or some garlic bread. It’s a fantastic way to create a well-rounded dinner that satisfies everyone at the table.

Storage Made Easy

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. When reheating, add a splash of pasta water to keep the sauce creamy and smooth. It tastes just as delicious the next day!

Idea	Best for	How to do it
Swap pasta	Low-carb option	Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash
Add veggies	Extra nutrition	Incorporate spinach, peppers, or mushrooms
Store in fridge	Easy meal prep	Airtight containers for up to 4 days
Pair with salad	Complete dish	Serve with a fresh green salad

More Recipes You Can Try Next

If you enjoyed this 1-Pot Tomato Ricotta Pasta, here are more delicious, simple recipes to keep your kitchen inspiring.

Mushroom and Walnut Wellington	A savory vegetarian option that’s perfect for special occasions.
Grilled Vegetable Wraps	Quick, colorful, and packed with flavor, these wraps are great for lunch!
Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach	A luscious, indulgent dish that’s easy to prepare and delicious.

Final Thoughts

This 1-Pot Tomato Ricotta Pasta is a lovely blend of simplicity and flavor. Cooking doesn’t need to be complicated to be delicious. With this recipe, you can whip up an impressive meal that satisfies. I’ve enjoyed this dish many times, and it never gets old. I hope it brings joy to your kitchen as well. Explore more easy recipes and joy of cooking through my creative journey on Pinterest.

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