Looking for a comforting and simple dinner? Creamy Ricotta and Tomato Pasta is the perfect dish to impress your family or friends with rich flavor and a creamy texture. Best of all, it’s quick and easy to make, ideal for those days when you want to enjoy a delicious meal without hassle.

For this recipe, short pasta varieties like penne, fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle work best. These shapes help hold the sauce better and distribute it evenly, creating a more delightful eating experience. However, you can also opt for spaghetti if you prefer a classic presentation.

Use ripe, juicy tomatoes such as Roma or plum tomatoes. They have fewer seeds and a firm texture. Be sure to remove the seeds and chop them into small cubes to integrate well into the dish and add a fresh, sweet flavor.

What to serve with?

This dish is satisfying on its own, but you can serve it with a fresh green salad—like spinach or arugula—and some crusty bread to complete the meal. It also pairs nicely with a chilled white wine if you’re looking to make it more elegant.

How to make Creamy Ricotta and Tomato Pasta

Ingredients:

• 12 oz short pasta (penne, fusilli, etc.)
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 chopped onion
• 2 minced garlic cloves
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups warm milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne (optional)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 2 cups chopped, seeded ripe tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Preparation:

1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until very al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
2. In a skillet, melt the butter and cook the onion until translucent, about 6 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
3. Stir in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, mixing well.
4. Gradually add the warm milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the ricotta, mozzarella, salt, pepper, cayenne, and parsley. Mix until smooth and creamy.
6. Combine the sauce with the pasta and gently fold in the chopped tomatoes.
7. Transfer everything to a baking dish, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Why you’ll love it

This dish combines the creaminess of ricotta, the freshness of ripe tomatoes, and a flavorful, cheesy sauce—creating a vibrant, satisfying meal. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings with friends, or a special lunch. Plus, you can customize it by adding ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, or chicken for an even heartier dish.

Give this delicious pasta a try and enjoy a meal that’s sure to become a favorite!