Ricotta cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be incorporated in various dishes, including desserts, casseroles, and pasta.
It has a rich and creamy consistency that adds depth and complexity to any dish. Besides, it is low-fat and high in protein, making it an excellent option for those who want to enjoy tasty meals without sacrificing health.
With that said, in this blog post, we are going to give you 44 easy recipes that use ricotta cheese as a primary ingredient. From breakfast to dinner, we have got you covered!
44 Easy Recipes Using Ricotta Cheese
1. Ricotta Pancakes
This recipe uses ricotta cheese instead of milk to provide a moist and fluffy texture to the pancakes. Just mix together the ricotta cheese, flour, eggs, and baking powder, and you will have delicious pancakes in minutes.
2. Baked Ricotta
If you are looking for an easy and elegant appetizer, then baked ricotta is perfect. Mix the ricotta cheese with herbs, garlic, and lemon zest, then bake until golden brown. Serve it with toasted bread or crackers.
3. Lemon Ricotta Cookies
These cookies are incredibly soft and moist, thanks to the ricotta cheese. Add some lemon zest and juice to the dough to create a refreshing and zesty flavor.
4. Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells
This classic Italian dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner. Stuff the pasta shells with ricotta cheese, spinach, and tomato sauce, then bake until bubbly.
5. Ricotta and Tomato Tart
This tart is light yet flavorful, making it a great option for a summer lunch. Mix ricotta cheese with basil, oregano, and tomato, then spread it over a puff pastry crust. Bake until the top is golden brown.
6. Ricotta and Mushroom Frittata
This recipe uses ricotta cheese instead of cream to create a healthier frittata. Add some sautéed mushrooms, onions, and herbs to make it savory.
7. Ricotta Gnocchi
These fluffy and pillowy gnocchi are a delight to eat. Mix ricotta cheese with flour, egg, and parmesan cheese, then form into bite-sized pieces. Boil until they float to the surface, then toss with your favorite sauce.
8. Ricotta Cheesecake
This light and airy cheesecake use ricotta cheese instead of cream cheese to keep it low-fat. Add some lemon zest and vanilla extract to give it a delicate flavor.
9. Ricotta and Asparagus Tart
This tart is a great way to celebrate the spring season. Mix ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, and asparagus, then spread it over a puff pastry crust. Bake until golden brown.
10. Whipped Ricotta Bruschetta
Whipped ricotta bruschetta is a delightful appetizer or snack that’s both simple to make and bursting with flavor.
It’s a creamy and fresh twist on the classic bruschetta, with the ricotta cheese whipped until light and fluffy and then seasoned with various herbs and spices.
11. Ricotta and Tomato Pizza
This pizza is light and tasty, making it perfect for a quick lunch. Spread some ricotta cheese over the pizza dough, add some sliced tomatoes, and bake until crispy.
12. Lemon Ricotta Pasta
This pasta dish is simple yet flavorful, making it great for a weeknight dinner. Mix ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and juice, then toss with cooked pasta. Add some peas and Parmesan cheese for an extra protein boost.
13. Ricotta and Sausage Casserole
This casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish. Brown some sausage and onions, then mix them with ricotta cheese and noodles. Bake until bubbly and golden brown.
14. Whipped Ricotta Dip With Honey
Whipped ricotta dip with honey is a delightful appetizer or snack that’s simple to make yet bursting with flavor and versatility.
The creamy ricotta cheese gets whipped until light and fluffy, then kissed with the sweetness of honey, creating a perfect balance between savory and sweet.
15. Ricotta and Pear Crostini
This crostini has the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Spread ricotta cheese over some toasted bread, add some sliced pears, and drizzle with honey.
16. Four-Cheese Lasagna
This lasagna recipe uses four types of cheese, including ricotta cheese, to create a rich and cheesy flavor. Layer the sheets of lasagna with tomato sauce, cheese, and spinach, then bake until bubbly.
17. Ricotta and Shrimp Pasta
This dish is light and protein-packed, making it a great option for a healthy and satisfying meal. Mix ricotta cheese with garlic, lemon juice, and cooked shrimp, then toss with cooked pasta.
18. Zucchini and Ricotta Tart
This tart is perfect for a healthy and enticing brunch. Mix ricotta cheese with zucchini, herbs, and eggs, then bake until golden brown.
19. Blueberry and Ricotta Pancakes
These pancakes are the perfect combination of sweet and creamy. Mix ricotta cheese with flour, eggs, and blueberries, then cook them until golden brown.
20. Ricotta and Tomato Frittata
This frittata is easy to make and an excellent option for a quick breakfast. Mix ricotta cheese, cherry tomatoes, and herbs, then cook in a skillet until set.
21. Ricotta and Chicken Casserole
Ah, baked ziti with ricotta! Just the name conjures up images of bubbling cheese, tender pasta, and warm, comforting flavors.
This classic Italian-American dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in.
22. Ricotta and Berry Smoothie
This smoothie is a refreshing and healthy option for breakfast or snack. Blend ricotta cheese with berries, honey, and almond milk, then enjoy!
23. Ricotta Stuffed French Toast
Make a creamy ricotta filling with a touch of honey and cinnamon, then use it to stuff French toast slices. Cook until golden brown and serve with maple syrup.
24. Ricotta and Herb Stuffed Mushrooms
Combine ricotta cheese with fresh herbs, garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese. Fill mushroom caps with the mixture and bake until they are tender and the filling is golden.
25. Spinach and Ricotta Calzones
Make a calzone filling with ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach, garlic, and a hint of nutmeg. Fill pizza dough with the mixture, fold, and bake until golden and crispy.
26. Ricotta and Spinach Quesadillas
Spread ricotta cheese on tortillas, add sautéed spinach, and fold in half. Cook on a griddle until the tortillas are crispy and the cheese is melted.
27. Ricotta Stuffed Zucchini Blossoms
Stuff delicate zucchini blossoms with a mixture of ricotta cheese, herbs, and a hint of lemon zest. Dip in a light batter and fry until golden.
28. Ricotta and Pine Nut Stuffed Chicken Breast
Cut a pocket in chicken breasts and stuff them with a mixture of ricotta cheese, toasted pine nuts, and basil. Sear on the stovetop, then bake until the chicken is cooked through.
29. Ricotta and Berry Parfait
Layer sweetened ricotta cheese with fresh berries and granola for a delightful dessert or breakfast option.
30. Ricotta and Pesto-Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
Hollow out cherry tomatoes and fill them with a mixture of ricotta cheese and pesto. Serve as a flavorful appetizer.
31. Ricotta and Sun-Dried Tomato Dip
Blend ricotta cheese with sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, garlic, and herbs for a flavorful dip to serve with bread or vegetables.
32. Ricotta Stuffed Crepes
Fill crepes with a sweetened ricotta cheese filling and drizzle with your favorite fruit compote for a delightful dessert.
33. Ricotta and Herb Omelette
Whisk eggs with a dollop of ricotta cheese and your favorite herbs for a light and fluffy omelette.
34. Ricotta and Avocado Toast
Spread ricotta cheese on toasted bread and top with sliced avocado, red pepper flakes, and a drizzle of olive oil.
35. Ricotta and Mushroom Risotto
Add a creamy touch to your mushroom risotto by stirring in ricotta cheese just before serving.
36. Ricotta and Spinach Breakfast Burrito
Mix sautéed spinach with ricotta cheese, then fill a tortilla, roll it up, and enjoy a savory breakfast burrito.
37. Ricotta and Artichoke Dip
Combine ricotta cheese with chopped artichoke hearts, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese. Bake until hot and bubbly and serve with tortilla chips or crackers.
38. Ricotta and Mango Smoothie
Create a refreshing smoothie by blending ricotta cheese with ripe mango, yogurt, and a touch of honey.
39. Ricotta and Zucchini Noodles
Toss spiralized zucchini noodles with a creamy ricotta sauce made with garlic, lemon juice, and fresh basil.
40. Ricotta and Pesto Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Fill portobello mushroom caps with a mixture of ricotta cheese, pesto, and breadcrumbs. Bake until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden.
41. Ricotta and Chia Seed Pudding
Mix ricotta cheese with chia seeds, honey, and almond milk to create a delightful pudding. Top with fresh berries and enjoy.
42. Ricotta Stuffed Peppers
Fill bell peppers with a mixture of ricotta cheese, spinach, and your favorite herbs. Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
43. Ricotta and Honey Crostini
Spread ricotta cheese over toasted baguette slices, drizzle with honey, and sprinkle with chopped nuts or fresh herbs for a sweet and savory appetizer.
44. Ricotta and Berry Tart
Create a luscious berry tart with a ricotta cheese filling and a layer of fresh berries on top. Drizzle with a berry glaze for an elegant dessert.
Final Thoughts,
Ricotta cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various dishes, from desserts to savory dishes. It is an excellent option for those who want to enjoy delicious meals without sacrificing health.
In this blog post, we have given you 44 easy recipes that use ricotta cheese as a primary ingredient. We hope you try some of them and enjoy the creamy and rich flavor of ricotta cheese in your dishes. Happy cooking!
