Creamy Spinach Ricotta Pasta

Name: Creamy Spinach Ricotta Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta of your choice; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for sautéing; Lemon juice (optional, for serving)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Delights

I find there’s something incredibly satisfying about a bowl of creamy spinach ricotta pasta. The richness of the ricotta combined with the freshness of the spinach creates a delightful balance that I’m always eager to savor. This recipe has become a go-to in my kitchen because it’s uncomplicated yet decadent, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. I love how quickly everything comes together, and I can easily adjust the flavors to suit my mood, whether I crave something light or indulgent.

Created by

Josie Lambert

Last updated on 2026-02-08T07:09:36.415Z

When I first tried making creamy spinach ricotta pasta, I was amazed by how quickly I could whip up a luxurious dish with simple ingredients. I learned that using fresh spinach really elevates the flavor, while the ricotta adds a velvety texture that envelops each piece of pasta perfectly. To save time, I often cook the pasta and prepare the sauce simultaneously, ensuring I have everything ready in just 25 minutes.

One of my favorite tricks is to toss in a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for a burst of freshness. It brightens the dish and beautifully complements the creamy ricotta. Plus, if you have any leftover pasta, it reheats wonderfully, making it a great meal prep option that I always enjoy for lunch the next day.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy, decadent sauce complements fresh pasta perfectly.
Quick and easy to prepare, suited for any weeknight dinner.
The balance of flavors elevates your everyday meal to something special.

The Secret to Creaminess

The key to achieving that luxurious, creamy texture in this spinach ricotta pasta lies in using high-quality ricotta cheese. Look for fresh ricotta that’s rich and slightly sweet, avoiding the dry varieties that won’t melt as beautifully. When you blend it with vegetable broth, you create a sauce that clings to the pasta without being overly heavy, giving every bite a delightful mouthfeel and flavor profile.

To ensure your sauce is perfectly creamy, remember to stir it gently over low heat after adding the ricotta and broth. This helps prevent the cheese from curdling and allows the mixture to meld together seamlessly. If you find the sauce is too thick as you incorporate it with the pasta, the reserved pasta water is your best friend—adding it gradually will adjust the consistency without losing flavor.

Flavor Boosts and Variations

While the base recipe is undeniably delicious, there are many ways to customize this dish to suit your palate or dietary needs. For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even chickpeas, which will blend well with the creaminess of the sauce. For a flavor kick, toss in some red pepper flakes or a pinch of nutmeg while cooking the garlic and spinach.

If you want to make this dish vegan-friendly, swap out the ricotta for a plant-based alternative, and replace the Parmesan with nutritional yeast for that cheesy depth. You can also use cashew cream as a substitute for ricotta; just blend soaked cashews with a bit of lemon juice, nutritional yeast, and salt for a velvety sauce.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This creamy spinach ricotta pasta is incredibly easy to make ahead. After cooking, let the dish cool completely and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the sauce as needed, stirring until heated through.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions of this pasta. After cooling, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, and it will keep well for up to two months. Remember to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results. You might need to adjust the seasoning after reheating, as flavors can mellow during storage.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh and flavorful ingredients to make your creamy spinach ricotta pasta.

Ingredients

8 oz pasta of your choice
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for sautéing
Lemon juice (optional, for serving)

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're just minutes away from enjoying this delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your creamy spinach ricotta pasta.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Sauté the Garlic and Spinach

In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

Combine with Ricotta

Reduce the heat to low, and stir in the ricotta cheese and vegetable broth. Mix until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Mix Pasta and Season

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the creamy spinach ricotta pasta hot, drizzled with a little olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness if desired.

Now you're ready to dig in! Enjoy your homemade creamy spinach ricotta pasta.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables like sun-dried tomatoes or peas for extra flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad.

Enhancing Texture and Flavor

To elevate the texture of your creamy spinach ricotta pasta, consider toasting the garlic over low heat until it softens and lightly caramelizes before adding the spinach. This will infuse a deeper flavor base that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the ricotta. The spinach should only wilt slightly; you want to retain some of its fresh quality for a vibrant green color and slight crunch.

Additionally, adding a touch of fresh lemon juice just before serving can brighten the dish significantly. The acidity balances the richness of the cheese and adds a layer of freshness that enhances every bite. I often keep a lemon wedge on the side to squeeze over each portion for that extra zip.

Pasta Choices and Cooking Tips

While any pasta shape works in this recipe, I personally enjoy using fettuccine or penne, as their textures hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully. When cooking the pasta, be careful not to over-boil it, as slightly undercooking (al dente) is best for this dish; it allows the pasta to absorb some sauce during the sautéing process without becoming mushy.

It’s also important to salt your pasta water adequately. A good rule of thumb is to add enough salt so it tastes like the ocean. This is your opportunity to season the pasta from the inside out, ensuring a well-rounded flavor throughout.

Serving Suggestions

For serving, consider pairing your creamy spinach ricotta pasta with a simple arugula salad dressed lightly with balsamic vinaigrette. The peppery arugula complements the richness of the pasta, cleansing the palate with every bite. Additionally, a crusty loaf of bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, contributing to a well-rounded meal.

You can also amp up the presentation by garnishing with fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, to add a pop of color and an aromatic lift. A dusting of extra Parmesan just before serving not only looks appealing but enhances the savory nuances while providing an inviting aroma.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach can be used. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the sauce.

→ What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Any pasta works well, but I recommend using fettuccine or penne for the best texture with the creamy sauce.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cook the pasta when you're ready to serve.

→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute the ricotta cheese with a vegan alternative or make your own using blended silken tofu with nutritional yeast.