Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Pasta is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines tender pasta with a rich, creamy sauce made from spinach and ricotta. This dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a delicious weekend dinner. The creamy ricotta pairs perfectly with fresh spinach and a touch of Parmesan, creating a satisfying meal that’s both light and indulgent. It’s a great way to sneak in some greens while enjoying the comforting flavors of pasta.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy spinach and ricotta pasta is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The creamy, cheesy ricotta sauce is balanced by the freshness of the spinach, making each bite comforting yet light. The dish is also highly customizable—you can add more veggies, toss in some garlic or herbs, or adjust the amount of cheese for a richer flavor. It’s a simple, one-pan meal that’s perfect for vegetarians and anyone craving a satisfying, flavorful pasta dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Pasta

Ingredients

8 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
1 garlic clove (minced)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Additional grated Parmesan (optional, for topping)

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

Directions

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Sauté the spinach: In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook for 3-4 minutes until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
Make the sauce: Add the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream to the pan with the spinach. Stir to combine, letting the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until heated through and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
Combine the pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. If necessary, add more pasta water to help the sauce adhere to the pasta.
Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Total time: 25 minutes
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes

Variations

Add garlic or onion: For extra flavor, sauté some garlic or onion with the spinach for a more aromatic base.
Extra veggies: Add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted cherry tomatoes for added texture and flavor.
Make it dairy-free: Use dairy-free ricotta and a non-dairy cream (like coconut cream or cashew cream) for a vegan-friendly version.
Add protein: For added protein, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu to the pasta.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This pasta can be frozen, but the creaminess may change upon thawing. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.
Reheating: Reheat the pasta on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to bring it back to a creamy consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach in place of fresh spinach. Be sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture before adding it to the sauce.

2. Can I use ricotta from a tub instead of fresh?

Yes, store-bought ricotta works fine for this recipe, but fresh ricotta may have a creamier texture.

3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. The rest of the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

4. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

You can make the creamy sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply heat it on the stovetop and toss with freshly cooked pasta.

5. How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can reduce the cream further or add more ricotta cheese. You can also cook the sauce a bit longer to allow it to thicken.

6. Can I add more cheese to the sauce?

Yes, you can add more cheese for a richer flavor. Try adding mozzarella, goat cheese, or even some sharp cheddar for an interesting twist.

7. Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Use a plant-based ricotta and dairy-free cream to make this dish vegan. You can also top it with dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for added flavor.

8. How do I store leftover pasta?

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop with a little added cream or water to keep it creamy.

9. How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes, or toss in a diced fresh chili while sautéing the garlic and spinach.

10. Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes! Feel free to use your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or farfalle, for this creamy spinach and ricotta sauce.

Conclusion

Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Pasta is a deliciously comforting dish that combines the richness of cheese with the freshness of spinach, all coated in a creamy, savory sauce. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this pasta is the perfect meal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It’s flavorful, satisfying, and can easily be customized to suit your tastes. Enjoy this creamy pasta dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Chef MARTHA