Pasta with Ricotta – A Creamy Delight
Category: Main Courses
Serves: 4

This Pasta with Ricotta recipe is the epitome of simple yet satisfying comfort food. The combination of al dente fusilli pasta coated in a creamy ricotta sauce, with the subtle fragrance of fresh thyme and the depth of Parmigiano Reggiano, offers a luxurious dish that is both easy to prepare and delicious. Whether you’re planning a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, this recipe will surely impress.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Fusilli (or any pasta of your choice) | 320g |
Fresh Ricotta Cheese | 350g |
Parmigiano Reggiano DOP (grated) | 70g |
Fresh Cream (Panna fresca liquida) | 70g |
Salt (to taste) | q.b. (as needed) |
Black Pepper (freshly ground) | q.b. (as needed) |
Fresh Thyme | q.b. (to taste) |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the fusilli pasta and cook according to the package instructions, until al dente. Be sure to reserve a small cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
-
Make the Creamy Ricotta Sauce: While the pasta cooks, place the ricotta cheese into a large mixing bowl. Add the fresh cream and gently mix until the ricotta is smooth and creamy. The cream will add a silky texture to the sauce, making it perfect for coating the pasta.
-
Add the Flavoring: To enhance the flavors, stir in the grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. This will give the sauce a rich, nutty flavor that complements the mildness of the ricotta. Also, sprinkle in some fresh thyme leaves for a fragrant, earthy aroma that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
-
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and immediately add it to the bowl with the ricotta mixture. Toss the pasta into the sauce, adding a bit of the reserved pasta cooking water if necessary. The starchy water helps to bind the sauce to the pasta and creates a silky, smooth texture.
-
Final Adjustments: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Once everything is well mixed and the pasta is fully coated in the creamy ricotta sauce, serve immediately. Garnish with a few extra fresh thyme leaves or a sprinkle of grated Parmigiano for an added touch of elegance.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Nutrient | Amount (approx.) |
---|---|
Calories | 520 |
Protein | 20g |
Carbohydrates | 54g |
Fat | 24g |
Saturated Fat | 12g |
Fiber | 3g |
Sodium | 580mg |
Calcium | 350mg |
This Pasta with Ricotta recipe is a perfect example of Italian simplicity at its finest. The creamy texture of the ricotta combined with the nutty taste of Parmigiano creates a satisfying dish that pairs beautifully with the fresh thyme. Itβs a versatile recipe, and you can easily adjust the flavorings to your liking, making it a wonderful addition to any meal. Enjoy this hearty pasta dish with a side salad or some fresh bread for the perfect comfort food experience!