Creamy Lemon Ricotta Penne Recipe

If you are searching for a bright, comforting, and utterly delicious pasta dish, look no further than Creamy Lemon Ricotta Penne. This recipe brings together the silky richness of ricotta cheese with a lively splash of lemon, creating a sauce so luscious it clings lovingly to every penne pasta bite. It’s a perfect balance of creamy texture and zesty freshness that feels both indulgent and light. Simple yet bursting with flavor, this dish quickly became one of my go-to meals whenever I crave something special but fuss-free.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role, contributing to the comforting creaminess, bright citrus notes, and perfect texture of the pasta. The simplicity of the list makes it easy to gather the essentials and whip up this dish in no time.

• 300 g penne pasta: The ideal pasta shape for soaking up the luscious sauce in every nook and cranny.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds a smooth, fruity base to sauté garlic and build flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with aromatic depth and a subtle savory kick.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese: Brings a creamy, velvety texture that’s rich but not heavy.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Introduces a salty, nutty dimension to elevate the sauce.
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon: Provides the bright, citrusy zing that defines this dish.
• ½ cup reserved pasta water: The secret to the perfect sauce consistency, binding everything together seamlessly.
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of color.
• Optional: red chili flakes: For those who love a little heat to balance the creaminess.

How to Make Creamy Lemon Ricotta Penne

Step 1: Cook the Penne

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente. This is crucial because the pasta needs a firm bite to stand up to the creamy sauce. Be sure to reserve half a cup of that starchy pasta water before draining—it’s magic for helping the sauce cling to the pasta.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it briefly for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant but not browned. This quick step unlocks fragrant notes that form the flavor base of the dish.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Lemon Ricotta Sauce

Lower the heat to low, then stir in the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Slowly add the reserved pasta water a little at a time, stirring continuously to create a smooth, creamy sauce. The starch from the pasta water helps the sauce emulsify and cling beautifully to the penne, turning it into a luscious coating that isn’t too thick or watery.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Now it’s time to add the cooked penne to the skillet with your sauce. Toss everything gently but thoroughly until every piece of pasta is drenched in that velvety lemon ricotta goodness. Season generously with salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and if you enjoy a little kick, sprinkle in some red chili flakes to taste.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve Warm

Finish by stirring in chopped fresh parsley, which adds a vibrant, herby contrast to the creamy sauce and brightens up the presentation. Serve immediately while the dish is warm and the sauce still silky smooth.

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Ricotta Penne

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is an absolute must for its color and freshness, but you can also add extra grated Parmesan on top for that extra punch of umami. For a zesty twist, a few thin lemon slices or extra lemon zest sprinkled on top can enhance the visual appeal and citrus aroma.

Side Dishes

This creamy dish pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads dressed in a simple vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce, while roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes bring in natural sweetness and texture contrasts.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fresh take, serve the Creamy Lemon Ricotta Penne chilled as a pasta salad with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Another idea is plating it in individual ramekins topped with a touch of toasted breadcrumbs for crunch—the perfect blend of creamy and crispy in every bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. The Creamy Lemon Ricotta Penne will stay fresh for up to 2 days, though it tends to be best enjoyed the same day for peak creaminess and flavor.

Freezing

Freezing this dish is possible but not ideal since the ricotta sauce’s texture may change upon thawing. If you need to freeze it, cool completely, place in a freezer-safe container, and consume within 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra lemon juice to revive the sauce’s creamy texture. Microwave reheating works too, but do it in short bursts to avoid overcooking and drying out the pasta.

FAQs

Can I use other pasta shapes for Creamy Lemon Ricotta Penne?

Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding the sauce, other tubular or short pasta shapes like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle will also work great and offer their own texture charm.

Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, Creamy Lemon Ricotta Penne is vegetarian-friendly since it uses no meat or fish. Just ensure your Parmesan cheese is vegetarian if that’s a concern.

Can I make this dish vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute ricotta with a plant-based alternative like almond ricotta, use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan, and be sure to check your pasta is egg-free. The lemon and garlic flavors will shine through just as well!

How can I add protein to this dish?

Adding grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even chickpeas can boost protein content nicely. Toss them in at the final step to maintain their texture and flavor balance.

What wine pairs well with Creamy Lemon Ricotta Penne?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the lemony brightness and creamy texture perfectly, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been waiting for a new pasta recipe that’s both indulgently creamy and refreshingly vibrant, the Creamy Lemon Ricotta Penne is your new best friend. It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any night when you want to cozy up with something special. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it again and again, like I do!