There’s something utterly transformative about ricotta cheese. Its delicate texture and slightly sweet taste make it one of my favorite ingredients to play with in the kitchen. From savory mains to indulgent desserts, ricotta’s versatility is boundless. Today, I’m excited to share with you some of my beloved recipes where ricotta cheese is the star of the show.
Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
Starting the day with lemon ricotta pancakes is like giving yourself a little gift in the morning. They’re fluffy, light, and infused with a zesty brightness that dances on your tongue.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- A pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Butter, for cooking and serving
- Fresh berries and maple syrup, for serving
Directions:
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta, eggs, milk, and lemon zest and juice until combined.
- Fold the wet ingredients into the dry until just blended.
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a bit of butter.
- Pour scoops of batter onto the pan and cook until bubbles form, then flip and cook until golden.
- Serve hot with a dollop of butter, a cascade of fresh berries, and a drizzle of maple syrup.
Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells
This is a dish that never fails to impress. The creamy filling, nestled in pasta shells, cloaked in tomato sauce, and baked to perfection is a true showstopper.
Ingredients:
- 1 package jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded, for topping
Directions:
- Precook pasta shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside to cool.
- Mix ricotta, Parmesan, spinach, and egg. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stuff each shell with the ricotta mixture and place in a baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella and additional Parmesan.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Honey Ricotta Dip
For a quick and delightful treat, this honey ricotta dip comes together in a flash and is a crowd-pleaser with its creamy texture and sweet and savory flavor profile.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 tablespoons honey, plus more for drizzling
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of cinnamon (optional)
- Assorted fruits, nuts, and crackers for dipping
Directions:
- In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, honey, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
- Whip together until smooth and creamy.
- Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle with a bit more honey, and serve with your favorite fruits, nuts, and crackers.
Closing Thoughts
Ricotta cheese has a special place in my kitchen. It’s the chameleon of cheeses, seamlessly integrating into sweet and savory, breakfast and dinner, comfort food and elegant appetizers. Its creamy consistency and subtle sweetness can elevate simple ingredients into a dish that’s both sophisticated and comforting. Dive into these recipes and let the humble ricotta cheese surprise and delight your palate as it does mine!
Sweet Sensations: Desserts Made with Ricotta Cheese
Ricotta cheese, with its creamy texture and subtly sweet flavor, has always been a staple in my savory recipes. But when I started experimenting with it in desserts, it opened up a whole new world of sweet possibilities. Today, I’m thrilled to share with you some of my most treasured dessert recipes that highlight the delightful versatility of ricotta cheese.
Classic Italian Ricotta Cannoli
No dessert with ricotta is as iconic as the classic cannoli. With a crispy shell and a luscious, sweet ricotta filling, each bite is a little piece of heaven.
Ingredients:
- Cannoli shells (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups ricotta cheese, strained
- 1 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- Zest of 1 orange
- Chopped pistachios, for garnish
Directions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the strained ricotta, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and orange zest.
- Pipe the filling into the cannoli shells just before serving to maintain the crunch of the shells.
- Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with chopped pistachios for an extra touch of elegance.
Ricotta and Berry Tart
This tart is simplicity at its best. The creamy ricotta provides a perfect base for the bursting flavors of fresh, seasonal berries.
Ingredients:
- 1 prebaked tart shell
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup honey or to taste
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Mint leaves, for garnish
Directions:
- In a bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, honey, and lemon zest until smooth.
- Spread the ricotta mixture into the cooled tart shell.
- Top with a generous amount of fresh berries.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour.
- Garnish with mint leaves before serving.
Chocolate Ricotta Mousse
Chocolate and ricotta make for an unexpectedly perfect pairing. This mousse is a rich, chocolatey dream with a lighter texture than the traditional version.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream and chocolate shavings, for serving
Directions:
- Blend the ricotta cheese in a food processor until smooth.
- Add the melted chocolate, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract and blend until combined.
- Spoon into individual serving dishes and refrigerate until set, about 2 hours.
- Top with a dollop of whipped cream and chocolate shavings before serving.
Ricotta Orange Pound Cake
This moist and flavorful pound cake uses ricotta for a rich and dense texture, while the orange zest adds a citrusy brightness.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a loaf pan.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the butter, ricotta, and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then mix in the orange zest and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the loaf pan and bake for about 50-60 minutes.
- Let cool before slicing.
Closing Thoughts
Ricotta cheese isn’t just for lasagna or stuffed shells—it’s a powerhouse in the dessert world, too. Whether folded into a cannoli or whipped into a mousse, ricotta adds a luxurious richness that makes sweets even more indulgent. I hope these recipes inspire you to see ricotta in a whole new light. Dive into the sweet side of this versatile cheese and let your taste buds revel in the creamy delight that is ricotta!
Ricotta Cheese Breakfasts to Kickstart Your Day
Mornings in my kitchen are a sacred time, filled with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the promise of a new day. I’ve found that incorporating ricotta cheese into my breakfast routine adds a touch of indulgence to the start of my day. Below, I’m excited to share with you my go-to breakfast recipes featuring the creamy and delightful ricotta cheese.
Whipped Ricotta Toast with Wild Berries
Toast has never been more decadent. This simple yet sophisticated recipe elevates the humble slice of bread into something that feels gourmet.
Ingredients:
- 4 slices of your favorite artisanal bread
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 tablespoons honey, plus more for drizzling
- Fresh mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- A sprinkle of chopped nuts (optional)
Directions:
- Toast the bread slices to your desired crunchiness.
- In a bowl, whip the ricotta with honey until it’s smooth and spreadable.
- Slather each toast with a generous layer of whipped ricotta.
- Top with a colorful array of fresh berries.
- Drizzle with additional honey and sprinkle with nuts if desired.
Savory Ricotta and Herb Frittata
This frittata is my weekend staple when I have a little more time to savor the cooking process. It’s packed with herbs and the creamy richness of ricotta.
Ingredients:
- 6 large eggs
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup fresh herbs (basil, chives, parsley), chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in most of the herbs, reserving some for garnish.
- Heat olive oil in an ovenproof skillet, then pour in the egg mixture.
- Dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese on top of the egg mixture.
- Cook over medium heat until the edges start to set, then transfer to the oven.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes until the frittata is set and lightly golden.
- Garnish with the remaining herbs before serving.
Ricotta and Lemon Pancakes
These pancakes are like fluffy clouds on a plate, with a zesty lemon flavor that brightens your entire morning.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- A pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Butter, for the pan
Directions:
- Mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
- In another bowl, whisk together the ricotta, eggs, buttermilk, and lemon zest and juice until smooth.
- Fold the wet ingredients into the dry, being careful not to overmix.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a bit of butter.
- Pour scoops of batter onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles form, then flip and cook until golden brown.
- Serve hot with a pat of butter and a drizzle of maple syrup or honey.
Closing Thoughts
Breakfast with ricotta cheese is truly the perfect way to start the day. It infuses each morning with a special kind of luxury, one that doesn’t require an extravagant budget or hours in the kitchen. It’s all about simple ingredients coming together to create something beautiful and delicious. Whether you’re spreading it on toast or folding it into a frittata, ricotta cheese adds a creamy, dreamy quality to your breakfast that’s sure to set a positive tone for the rest of your day.
Homemade Ricotta Cheese Recipes for Artisan Cooks
There’s something profoundly satisfying about making cheese from scratch. As an artisan cook, I cherish the process of transforming simple ingredients into something as versatile and delicious as ricotta cheese. Homemade ricotta has a freshness you can’t find in store-bought versions, and it opens up a realm of culinary creativity. Here, I share with you my treasured homemade ricotta recipes that will add a gourmet touch to your table.
The Foundation: Making Your Own Ricotta
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s master the art of making ricotta at home. It’s easier than you might think!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice or white vinegar
Directions:
- Combine milk, cream, and salt in a large pot. Slowly heat the mixture until it reaches a temperature of 190°F (88°C), stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
- Add lemon juice or vinegar and stir gently to combine. You’ll see the curds start to form almost immediately.
- Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit undisturbed for 10 minutes.
- Line a colander with cheesecloth and pour the mixture through to separate the curds from the whey.
- Allow the curds to drain for 15-20 minutes for a softer ricotta or longer for a firmer consistency.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Homemade Ricotta Gnocchi
Light, pillowy, and absolutely divine, these ricotta gnocchi are a joy to make and eat.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup homemade ricotta cheese
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
Directions:
- Combine ricotta, egg, Parmesan, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a bowl.
- Add flour gradually until a soft dough forms.
- On a floured surface, gently roll dough into long ropes and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Drop gnocchi into boiling salted water and cook until they float to the surface.
- Serve with your favorite sauce or a simple sage butter.
Herbed Ricotta Spread
Perfect for entertaining or as a quick snack, this herbed ricotta spread is fresh and flavorful.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup homemade ricotta cheese
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup mixed fresh herbs (chives, parsley, basil), finely chopped
- Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a bowl, mix the ricotta with olive oil until smooth.
- Stir in the fresh herbs and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve on crostini, with vegetable crudités, or spread on a sandwich.
Ricotta and Lemon Tart
The zestiness of lemon paired with the creaminess of ricotta makes this tart a refreshing and elegant dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 prebaked tart shell
- 1 1/2 cups homemade ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a food processor, blend the ricotta until smooth.
- Add sugar, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice, blending until combined.
- Pour the filling into the tart shell and bake for about 25-30 minutes.
- Cool completely and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Closing Thoughts
Making your own ricotta cheese is an artisanal journey that transforms your cooking into a craft. Whether you’re shaping gnocchi, spreading it on toast, or filling a tart, homemade ricotta is a testament to the beauty of handmade food. Each of these recipes starts with the same simple foundation, yet they take you to entirely different and delicious places. Embrace the process, savor the flavors, and let homemade ricotta showcase your skills as an artisan cook.
Savory Ricotta Cheese Recipes for Any Occasion
As someone who adores cooking and exploring the multifaceted world of cheese, I’ve come to regard ricotta as a culinary chameleon. It can be sweet, sure, but when it takes a savory turn, it becomes a powerhouse ingredient that can elevate a dish from ordinary to extraordinary. In this post, I’m thrilled to share with you my favorite savory ricotta cheese recipes that are perfect for any occasion.
Ricotta Stuffed Shells with Spinach
When it comes to comfort food, stuffed pasta shells are high on my list. The creamy filling, rich sauce, and hearty pasta come together in a symphony of flavor and texture that’s hard to beat.
Ingredients:
- 18 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups of your favorite marinara sauce
Directions:
- Precook the pasta shells al dente, drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, spinach, and egg. Season with salt and pepper.
- Fill each shell with the ricotta mixture and place in a baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle additional Parmesan on top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Savory Ricotta Tart with a Puff Pastry Crust
This tart is an absolute showstopper – a flaky crust with a creamy ricotta filling, complemented by the bright flavors of herbs.
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry to fit into a tart pan; prick the bottom with a fork.
- In a bowl, mix together ricotta, Parmesan, thyme, rosemary, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper.
- Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the puff pastry.
- Brush the edges of the pastry with egg wash.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the pastry is golden and the filling is set.
Creamy Ricotta Polenta
Ricotta polenta is a cozy and comforting side that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup polenta (coarse cornmeal)
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Directions:
- Bring water or broth to a boil in a large pot. Gradually whisk in the polenta.
- Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, until the polenta is thick and creamy.
- Stir in the ricotta, butter, and Parmesan cheese until well combined and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm as a comforting side dish.
Closing Thoughts
The beauty of ricotta cheese lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Whether spooned into pasta shells, spread onto a tart, or stirred into polenta, ricotta brings a soft, creamy element to these savory dishes that’s both comforting and indulgent. These recipes are not just meals; they’re experiences to be shared and savored, whether you’re setting the table for a special occasion or just elevating your weeknight dinner game. I hope you find as much joy in cooking and sharing these dishes as I do.
Quick and Easy Ricotta Cheese Snacks
As someone who’s always on the go, I’ve come to appreciate the simple pleasures of quick and nutritious snacks. Ricotta cheese, with its creamy texture and mild flavor, has become a staple in my fridge for just that reason. It’s incredibly versatile and can be turned into a satisfying snack within minutes. Allow me to share some of my favorite ricotta-based snacks that are as delicious as they are easy to whip up.
Whipped Ricotta with Honey and Walnuts
There’s something about the combination of creamy, savory ricotta with sweet honey and crunchy walnuts that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 tablespoons honey, plus extra for drizzling
- A pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- Crackers or sliced baguette for serving
Directions:
- Whip the ricotta cheese using a hand mixer or a whisk until smooth and fluffy.
- Mix in the honey and a pinch of salt until well combined.
- Spoon the mixture into a bowl, top with chopped walnuts, and a generous drizzle of honey.
- Serve with crackers or thinly sliced baguette.
Ricotta and Avocado Toast
Upgrade your avocado toast game by adding a layer of ricotta—it’s a game changer!
Ingredients:
- 2 slices of your favorite bread
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- Salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste
- A drizzle of olive oil
Directions:
- Toast your bread slices to your liking.
- Spread a thick layer of ricotta cheese on each slice.
- Top with avocado slices, and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Finish with a drizzle of olive oil and enjoy the creamy-crunchy magic.
Ricotta and Tomato Bruschetta
This is my go-to for a burst of Italian flavor that takes virtually no time to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toasted slices of baguette or ciabatta
Directions:
- In a small bowl, season the ricotta with salt and pepper.
- In another bowl, toss the cherry tomatoes with basil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Spread ricotta on the toasted bread slices and top with the tomato-basil mixture.
- Serve immediately for a fresh, flavorful bite.
Closing Thoughts
Ricotta cheese is a delightful ingredient that makes snacking not only quick and easy but also feels a bit gourmet. With these recipes, you can enjoy a delicious snack that satisfies without slowing you down. They’re perfect for when you need that mid-afternoon pick-me-up, or when you’re entertaining and need something impressive yet effortless. Give these ricotta snacks a try, and I’m sure they’ll become a regular in your snacking repertoire!
Ricotta Cheese-Based Sauces and Spreads
I have a confession to make. My kitchen is never without a tub of ricotta cheese. This creamy wonder has become my secret weapon when it comes to making sauces and spreads that are both effortless and impressive. Allow me to share some of my personal favorites that I’ve had the pleasure of creating and indulging in, often to the delight of my guests.
Creamy Ricotta Pesto
Pesto is a staple in my home, and I love giving it a creamy twist with ricotta cheese. It adds a delightful richness that balances the bold flavors of basil and garlic.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Directions:
- In a food processor, blend basil leaves, ricotta, pine nuts, and garlic until smooth.
- Gradually pour in the olive oil while the processor is running until the mixture is well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Stir in the grated Parmesan if you’re using it.
- Use this sauce over fresh pasta, as a spread on sandwiches, or as a dip for veggies.
Ricotta and Roasted Red Pepper Spread
This spread is a vibrant addition to any appetizer spread, offering a sweet and smoky flavor that’s irresistible on crusty bread or crackers.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Directions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, roasted red peppers, and fresh basil.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the olive oil and minced garlic for a kick.
- Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled with toasted baguette slices or hearty crackers.
Zesty Ricotta and Lemon Sauce
When you need to add a bit of brightness to your dish, this lemony ricotta sauce does the trick. It’s particularly divine drizzled over grilled vegetables or as a dressing for a fresh summer salad.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives
- Salt and cracked black pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a bowl, combine the ricotta with lemon zest and juice.
- Mix in the chives, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Use immediately or store in the refrigerator. This sauce is perfect when you want to add a tangy, creamy touch to your meals.
Closing Thoughts
Ricotta cheese has a subtle flavor that makes it the perfect canvas for a myriad of sauces and spreads. It blends beautifully with herbs, spices, and other flavorings, allowing you to create a variety of textures and tastes with minimal effort. These sauces and spreads have become a staple in my culinary repertoire, and I hope they’ll find a place in yours too. Experiment with these recipes, tweak them to suit your palate, and enjoy the endless possibilities ricotta cheese has to offer!
