For the best flavor, use high-quality, fresh ricotta cheese. Don't skip the lemon zest – it adds a brightness that balances the richness of the ricotta. The amount of cayenne pepper can be adjusted to your preference. Start with a pinch and add more if you like a spicier sauce. Reserving the pasta water is crucial for achieving the perfect sauce consistency. The starch in the water helps to bind the sauce to the pasta. For a richer flavor, consider using brown butter instead of pesto.
Creamy Ricotta Pasta Sauce
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PREP TIME10 mins
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COOK TIME20 mins
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TOTAL TIME30 mins
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SERVING4 People
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VIEWS49
Embrace the lighter side of decadence with this luscious ricotta pasta sauce. A simple yet sublime blend of creamy ricotta, bright lemon zest, and a touch of heat elevates your pasta to new heights. Forget heavy cream – this sauce is all about flavor and finesse.
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
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Carbohydrate42 g
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Cholesterol52 mg
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Fiber3 g
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Protein11 g
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Saturated Fat2 g
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Sodium617 mg
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Sugar1 g
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Fat9 g
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Unsaturated Fat0 g
DIRECTIONS
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01 Step
Recipe View 10 mins Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Cook the orecchiette pasta according to package directions, reducing the cooking time by 1 minute (approximately 9-10 minutes).
02 Step
Recipe View 5 mins While the pasta cooks, in a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, salt, black pepper, lemon zest, and cayenne pepper. Mix well until a smooth paste forms.
03 Step
Recipe View 3 mins Gradually add the hot pasta water to the ricotta mixture. Start with 1/3 cup of the hot pasta water and whisk until well combined. Repeat with another 1/3 cup of pasta water. This will temper the egg and create a silky sauce.
04 Step
Recipe View 1 mins Using a strainer or slotted spoon, transfer the cooked pasta to a large saucepan, allowing most, but not all, of the water to drain off (reserve the cooking water).
05 Step
Recipe View 2 mins Add the ricotta sauce mixture to the saucepan with the pasta. Turn the heat to medium and cook, stirring continuously, until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the pasta (about 2 minutes). If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
06 Step
Recipe View 1 mins Stir in the pesto. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
07 Step
Recipe View 1 mins Transfer the pasta to a warm serving bowl and serve immediately.
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RECIPE REVIEWS
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Please Rate
Mafalda Tremblay
Apr 18, 2025The lemon zest is key! It really brightens up the whole dish.
Reva Schmeler
Apr 1, 2025I was skeptical about using ricotta in pasta sauce, but this recipe proved me wrong. It's now a family favorite!
Leslie Stark
Feb 25, 2025This recipe is a game-changer! So much lighter than cream-based sauces, but still incredibly flavorful.
Ariel Grady
Nov 13, 2024Easy to make and delicious! I added a little more pesto for extra flavor.