Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta

Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta is a rich and creamy dish that combines the deep, caramelized flavors of roasted tomatoes and garlic with the smooth texture of ricotta cheese. This recipe is perfect for a comforting yet elegant meal that comes together easily.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with deep, roasted flavors from tomatoes and garlic
• Creamy and luscious ricotta sauce without being too heavy
• Simple, wholesome ingredients with an impressive taste
• Easy to customize with different herbs, cheeses, or proteins
• Great for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion dinner

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cherry or grape tomatoes
• Garlic cloves
• Olive oil
• Salt and black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Dried or fresh basil
• Dried or fresh oregano
• Ricotta cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Pasta of choice (such as spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni)
• Lemon zest (optional for brightness)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. On a baking sheet, toss the cherry tomatoes and whole garlic cloves with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Roast for about 20-25 minutes until the tomatoes are blistered and the garlic is softened.
3. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest (if using), and a splash of pasta water. Mix until smooth.
5. Once the tomatoes and garlic are roasted, mash the softened garlic into a paste and stir it into the ricotta mixture.
6. Add the hot, drained pasta to the bowl and toss to coat. If needed, add reserved pasta water gradually to achieve a creamy consistency.
7. Fold in the roasted tomatoes and gently stir to combine.
8. Garnish with fresh basil or oregano, and serve warm with extra Parmesan cheese on top.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Stir in grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy pancetta.
• Go Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of spicy chili oil.
• Use Different Cheese: Try a mix of ricotta and goat cheese for extra tanginess.
• Make It Vegan: Swap ricotta with a plant-based alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
• Try Different Herbs: Experiment with thyme, rosemary, or parsley for varied flavors.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a pan over low heat with a splash of water or milk to maintain creaminess.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the ricotta may become grainy when thawed.

FAQs

How do I prevent the ricotta from becoming grainy?

Use high-quality ricotta and mix it with warm pasta water to maintain a smooth texture.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?

Fresh roasted tomatoes provide better flavor, but you can use canned fire-roasted tomatoes in a pinch.

What’s the best pasta shape for this dish?

Tube-shaped pasta like rigatoni or penne holds the creamy sauce well, but spaghetti or fettuccine also work great.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but the texture is best when fresh. If making ahead, store the components separately and combine before serving.

What can I use instead of ricotta?

Cottage cheese, mascarpone, or even Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply swap regular pasta for a gluten-free alternative like chickpea or rice pasta.

Can I roast the tomatoes and garlic in advance?

Yes! Store them in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat before adding to the pasta.

How do I add more depth of flavor?

Roast the tomatoes with a splash of balsamic vinegar or add sun-dried tomatoes for extra richness.

Is this dish good for meal prep?

It can be prepped ahead, but the pasta may absorb the sauce over time. Add a splash of liquid when reheating.

Can I serve this cold as a pasta salad?

Yes! Chill the dish and add a drizzle of olive oil before serving for a refreshing twist.

Conclusion

Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings out the natural sweetness of roasted tomatoes and garlic while pairing beautifully with creamy ricotta. Whether served as a quick dinner or a special meal, this recipe is easy to make and highly customizable. Try it with different variations to make it your own!

Print