Ah, ricotta cheese – the unsung hero of the dairy world! Soft, creamy, and utterly delicious, it’s a staple ingredient that deserves more attention than it often receives. And yet, when used in the right dishes, it can elevate flavors and textures to new heights. In this article, we’ll be diving into 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the incredible versatility of ricotta cheese. From savory stuffed shells to sweet and tangy cheesecakes, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, ricotta cheese is an ingredient that’s easy to work with – and its creamy texture makes it perfect for a wide range of dishes. So grab a fork (or whisk, or spatula…), and let’s dive into this collection of 20 creamy ricotta cheese recipes!
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
A classic Italian-American dish that combines the creaminess of ricotta with the earthy flavor of spinach, all wrapped up in a delicious pasta shell. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 ounces ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the spinach-ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed shells and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
Start your day with a burst of citrus flavor and creamy texture. These Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are a refreshing twist on classic breakfast favorites.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 6 ounces ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Freshly grated lemon zest for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, lemon juice, and ricotta cheese.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in the melted butter.
6. Pour batter onto a non-stick skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with a pat of butter and a sprinkle of lemon zest (if desired).
Cooking Time: Approximately 8-10 minutes per batch.
Ricotta and Herb Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this creamy, flavorful recipe that combines the richness of ricotta cheese with the brightness of fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, parsley, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the ricotta mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ricotta Cheesecake with Berry Compote
This creamy cheesecake pairs perfectly with a sweet and tangy berry compote, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion. With its light and airy texture, this ricotta-based cheesecake is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
For the cheesecake:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 12 oz (340g) ricotta cheese
– 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the berry compote:
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp Grand Marnier or other orange liqueur (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs and sugar, then pressing into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat ricotta cheese until smooth, then add cream cheese, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
4. Pour batter into prepared crust and bake for 45-50 minutes or until set.
5. While cheesecake is baking, combine berries and sugar in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until berries release their juice and mixture thickens.
6. Remove cheesecake from oven and let cool completely. Serve with berry compote and orange liqueur, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes for cheesecake, 10-15 minutes for compote.
Ricotta and Spinach Lasagna Rolls
Ricotta and Spinach Lasagna Rolls Recipe Summary:
This recipe combines the creaminess of ricotta cheese with the earthy flavor of spinach, wrapped in a crispy lasagna roll. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing the baking dish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, and egg.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
5. Place a cooked lasagna noodle on a flat surface and spread about 1/4 cup of the ricotta mixture along the center of the noodle.
6. Roll up the noodle tightly but gently, starting from one end. Repeat with remaining noodles and filling.
7. Place the rolled lasagna in the prepared baking dish, seam-side down. Drizzle with olive oil.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time:
20-25 minutes
Ricotta and Honey Crostini
This recipe combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the sweetness of honey, all on top of a crispy baguette slice. Perfect for a quick and easy appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) container whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp pure honey
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– Fresh thyme leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
3. In a small bowl, mix together ricotta cheese and honey until well combined.
4. Spread about 1 tsp of the ricotta-honey mixture onto each toasted baguette slice.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including toasting the baguette slices)
Ricotta and Zucchini Fritters
Ricotta and Zucchini Fritters: A Delicious Summer Treat!
These crispy fritters are a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of zucchini and ricotta cheese. They’re easy to make, deliciously savory, and can be served as an appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated zucchini, flour, egg, salt, and baking powder. Mix well.
2. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
3. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the mixture into the oil, about the size of a golf ball.
4. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes (depending on the size of the fritters)
Ricotta and Chocolate Chip Cannoli
Experience the perfect blend of creamy ricotta cheese and rich chocolate chips wrapped in crispy cannoli shells. This recipe is a creative twist on the classic Italian dessert.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup (60g) chocolate chips
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Cannoli shells (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. Fold in chocolate chips.
3. Spoon the ricotta mixture into the cannoli shells.
4. Drizzle with melted chocolate (optional).
5. Dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Tips:
– Use high-quality ricotta cheese for the best flavor.
– Adjust the amount of chocolate chips to your liking.
– Store leftover cannoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Ricotta and Basil Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with this creamy, flavorful recipe that combines the earthy richness of portobello mushrooms with the brightness of fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean the mushrooms by wiping them with a damp cloth. Remove stems.
3. In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the ricotta mixture, dividing it evenly.
5. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ricotta and Lemon Pasta
This recipe combines the tanginess of lemon with the creaminess of ricotta, creating a unique and flavorful pasta dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, lemon juice, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. When pasta is cooked, drain and add to the ricotta mixture. Toss until well combined.
4. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ricotta and Pumpkin Ravioli
This seasonal ravioli filling combines the creaminess of ricotta cheese with the warm, comforting flavors of roasted pumpkin. A perfect dish for a cozy fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup cooked, mashed pumpkin
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten (for egg wash)
– Freshly grated nutmeg, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast 1 small sugar pumpkin (about 2 lbs) for 45-50 minutes, or until tender. Let cool.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mashed pumpkin, olive oil, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
3. Roll out fresh pasta dough to desired thickness. Cut into squares, about 3 inches per side.
4. Place a tablespoon of the pumpkin-ricotta mixture in the center of each square. Fold squares over filling to form triangles, pressing edges together to seal.
5. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
6. Cook ravioli in boiling, salted water for 3-5 minutes, or until they float. Serve with your favorite sauce and grated nutmeg.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ricotta and Tomato Galette
This recipe combines the creaminess of ricotta cheese with the sweetness of fresh tomatoes, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect for a light summer lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, diced tomatoes, and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush the top crust with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ricotta and Blueberry Muffins
Ricotta and Blueberry Muffins: A Sweet Treat with a Surprise Twist!
These moist and flavorful muffins combine the creaminess of ricotta cheese with the sweetness of fresh blueberries. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, these treats are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter, cooled
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– Optional: Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
8. Allow muffins to cool in tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ricotta and Prosciutto Pizza
A classic Italian combination of creamy ricotta cheese and salty prosciutto comes together on a crispy pizza crust, creating a simple yet elegant dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 6 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Spread the ricotta cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
4. Arrange the prosciutto slices on top of the ricotta, slightly overlapping each other.
5. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the prosciutto and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Brush the crust with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ricotta and Fig Tart
This sweet and savory tart combines the creaminess of ricotta cheese with the sweetness of caramelized figs, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust. It’s perfect for a special occasion or as a unique dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1/2 cup caramelized figs (see note)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. In a small bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, honey, and thyme. Spread the mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
3. Top with caramelized figs, spreading them out in an even layer.
4. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a crust. Brush with a little water and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
Note: To caramelize figs, cook 1/2 cup of chopped fresh figs in a saucepan over medium heat with 1 tablespoon of sugar and 1 tablespoon of water until the figs are soft and sticky.
Ricotta and Garlic Dip
A creamy and savory dip perfect for snacking or as a complement to your favorite Italian dishes. With just a few ingredients, you can create a deliciously addictive spread that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and minced garlic.
3. Add the olive oil and mix until smooth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the dip is lightly golden brown.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ricotta and Sweet Potato Gnocchi
This recipe combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes to create a unique and delicious gnocchi dish. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy this tasty Italian-inspired treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: additional seasonings such as nutmeg or cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes and ricotta cheese. Mix until smooth.
2. Add flour, egg, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope.
5. Cut the rope into 1-inch pieces to form gnocchi.
6. Cook gnocchi in boiling, salted water for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
7. Remove from heat and serve with your favorite sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ricotta and Carrot Cake
This moist and flavorful cake combines the creaminess of ricotta with the natural sweetness of carrots, creating a unique and delicious dessert perfect for any occasion. With its subtle spices and crunchy walnuts, this cake is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In another bowl, combine ricotta cheese, eggs, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
4. Add grated carrots, chopped walnuts, and salt to the wet ingredients. Mix well.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let the cake cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ricotta and Olive Bruschetta
Elevate your appetizer game with this creamy and savory bruschetta, featuring the rich flavors of ricotta cheese and olives.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, olives, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread about 2 tsp of the ricotta mixture onto each baguette slice.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using).
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is lightly toasted and bread is crispy.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ricotta and Pear Salad
A refreshing and light salad that combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the sweetness of pears, perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe pear (Bartlett or Anjou), diced
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together honey and apple cider vinegar until well combined.
2. Add the diced pear to the bowl and toss to coat with the honey-vinegar mixture.
3. Crumbling the ricotta cheese into small pieces, add it to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Discover the creamy versatility of ricotta cheese with these 20 deliciously satisfying recipes! From sweet treats like Lemon Ricotta Pancakes and Ricotta Cheesecake with Berry Compote, to savory dishes such as Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells and Ricotta and Zucchini Fritters, there’s something for everyone. Explore the many uses of ricotta in Italian-inspired classics like Lasagna Rolls and Cannoli, or try it in innovative creations like Ricotta and Fig Tart and Ricotta and Prosciutto Pizza. Whatever your taste buds desire, these recipes are sure to satisfy!
