Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something comforting, delicious, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This creamy ricotta penne pasta recipe is your answer. It's a quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough to impress guests. Homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated, and this dish is a perfect example of healthy meals made simple. Get ready to experience the best recipes your taste buds have ever encountered!
Ingredients: You'll need these simple staples
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese (whole milk is best, but part-skim works too)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor
Instructions: Let's get cooking!
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions, until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it should be lightly golden.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Stir in the ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese into the skillet with the garlic oil. Cook, stirring constantly, until the cheeses are melted and smooth. This should only take a few minutes. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the cheese sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Stir in the fresh basil.
Step 5: Garnish and Enjoy!
Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired. The optional sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of flavor and a beautiful pop of color.
Tips for Success: Making it even better!
- Don't overcook the pasta! Al dente pasta is key to achieving the perfect texture in this dish.
- Use high-quality ricotta cheese: The flavor of the ricotta will significantly impact the overall taste of the dish.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Add more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes to personalize your dish.
- Add protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage to the pasta.
- Make it vegetarian: This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can easily make it vegan by using a vegan ricotta cheese alternative.
Variations: Spice things up!
- Lemon Ricotta Penne: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the sauce for a bright and zesty twist.
- Spinach Ricotta Penne: Stir in a cup of fresh spinach along with the pasta. The spinach will wilt slightly from the heat of the sauce.
- Spicy Ricotta Penne: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. However, a typical serving contains approximately:
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This easy recipe for ricotta penne pasta is a delicious and satisfying meal the whole family will enjoy. It's a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to your preferences and dietary needs. It's a perfect example of delicious dishes that are both quick and healthy. Enjoy!