After a long day, the last thing I want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That’s why I love my Easy 20-Minute Pesto Ricotta Pasta! Bursting with flavor, this dish seamlessly combines the creamy richness of ricotta with the vibrant taste of fresh pesto, creating a meal that feels indulgent without the fuss.
I first whipped this up during a weeknight rush when I craved something delicious yet quick. With all the comforting elements of a classic pasta dish, it’s guaranteed to please every palate at the table—even the pickiest eaters. Plus, the best part? It only takes 20 minutes from start to finish! Whether you’re cooking for family or just treating yourself, this recipe adapts effortlessly, allowing you to customize it with your favorite toppings or sauces.
So, let’s dive in and discover how to make this colorful, veggie-packed delight that’s perfect for when you need a meal that’s as quick as it is satisfying!
Why is Pesto Ricotta Pasta a crowd favorite?
Quick Fix: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
Creamy Goodness: The luscious blend of ricotta and pesto creates a rich, satisfying sauce that elevates any pasta.
Customizable Delight: You can easily tweak this recipe to suit picky eaters, whether through simple ingredient swaps or portion adjustments.
Vegetarian-Friendly: Packed with nutrients, this recipe is a great way to enjoy meatless meals without sacrificing flavor.
Family-Friendly: Its vibrant colors and delicious taste ensure that every family member will be asking for seconds!
Try pairing it with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!
Ingredients for Pesto Ricotta Pasta
For the Pasta
• Linguine Pasta – This serves as the main structure of the dish; you can substitute with any pasta you adore, like penne or spaghetti.
For the Sauce
• Pesto – Adds a robust, herbaceous flavor; feel free to use your favorite brand or homemade version for a personal touch.
• Whole Milk Ricotta – Provides that creamy texture; swap it out for vegan ricotta if you prefer a plant-based option.
For Added Flavor
• Salt – Enhances all the delicious flavors; adjust according to your taste preferences.
• Olive Oil – Perfect for sautéing the sausage and vegetables; can be replaced with any cooking oil you have on hand.
For the Protein
• Vegan Sausages – Adds protein and texture to the dish; can be replaced with sautéed chickpeas or omitted for a lighter option.
Final Touches
• Reserved Pasta Water – Crucial for achieving that creamy sauce consistency; don’t forget to save some before draining!
• Basil (Optional) – Use for garnish—adds a touch of freshness and makes your dish visually appealing.
How to Make Pesto Ricotta Pasta
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Boil Pasta: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
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Mix Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the pesto and whole milk ricotta. Stir well until they form a creamy, well-blended sauce. Set aside to let the flavors meld together.
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Sauté Sausage: Heat a splash of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the vegan sausage and sauté until it’s golden brown and crispy, roughly 5-7 minutes. Your kitchen will smell absolutely divine!
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: When the pasta is ready, drain it while reserving ½ cup of pasta water. Return the pasta to the pot and add ¼ cup of the reserved water. Stir to combine, ensuring every strand is coated.
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Stir in the Sauce: Pour the creamy pesto ricotta mixture over the pasta. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If you prefer a creamier consistency, feel free to add a splash of the reserved pasta water!
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Add Sausage: Gently fold in the cooked vegan sausage, serving the pasta hot for the best flavor experience.
Optional: Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a beautiful presentation!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Pesto Ricotta Pasta Variations
Feel free to get creative and tweak this dish to suit your cravings!
- Veggie Boost: Add steamed spinach, sautéed zucchini, or roasted mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Chickpea Power: Swap vegan sausages for sautéed chickpeas to enhance protein and provide a hearty feel.
- Cheese Twist: Experiment with goat cheese or feta for a tangy twist, or use vegan cheese for plant-based goodness.
- Noodle Swap: Use gluten-free pasta or whole wheat options to cater to dietary needs without losing taste.
- Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for additional fragrance and flavors that excite the palate.
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to ignite the flavors and warm your senses.
- Nutty Flavor: Blend in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added crunch and a satisfying texture contrast.
- Sauce Swap: Replace pesto with sun-dried tomato pesto or alfredo sauce for an entirely different playing field of flavors.
How to Store and Freeze Pesto Ricotta Pasta
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days. Drizzle a little olive oil on top before sealing to maintain moisture and rich flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Enjoy within 2-3 months for the best quality.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water or olive oil to revive the creamy consistency of your Pesto Ricotta Pasta.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Pesto Ricotta Pasta in advance is a fantastic way to save time during busy weeknights! You can mix the pesto and ricotta sauce up to 24 hours ahead; store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve its rich flavors. Additionally, you can cook the linguine pasta and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just be sure to toss the pasta with a bit of olive oil to prevent it from sticking together. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the pasta in a pot with a splash of reserved pasta water, stir in the pre-prepared sauce, and fold in the sautéed vegan sausage for a meal that’s just as delicious as when it was freshly made!
What to Serve with Pesto Ricotta Pasta?
Elevate your Pesto Ricotta Pasta experience with these delightful pairings that create a well-rounded meal.
- Simple Side Salad: A fresh mix of greens with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta, adding crunch and vibrancy.
- Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for dipping in leftover sauce and is always a family favorite.
- Crispy Oven-Roasted Green Beans: These add a bit of healthy crunch and a pop of color to your dinner plate. Their slight char enhances the earthy flavors of the pasta wonderfully.
- Grilled Veggies: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus seasoned with olive oil and herbs add depth to your meal and complement the dish’s fresh pesto essence.
- Lemonade or Iced Tea: A refreshing drink choice, their zesty flavors will cleanse your palate and keep your dining experience light and enjoyable.
- Chocolate Mousse: End on a sweet note with a creamy chocolate mousse. Its rich texture and subtle sweetness offer a delightful contrast to the savory pasta dish.
Mix and match these pairings to create your ideal dining experience!
Expert Tips for Pesto Ricotta Pasta
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Creamier Sauce: For a richer texture, whisk the ricotta with a splash of reserved pasta water before mixing it with your pasta.
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Picky Eater Approach: Reserve some plain cooked pasta and serve it separately, topped with marinara or olive oil for those who prefer simpler flavors.
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Leftover Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for 3-5 days; drizzle olive oil when reheating to prevent dryness and keep that delicious creamy consistency of the Pesto Ricotta Pasta.
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Vegetable Boost: Enhance the dish by adding spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms, which not only increases the nutrition but also adds vibrant colors to your meal.
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Broaden Your Options: Substitute vegan sausage with sautéed chickpeas for an added protein punch, or use different cheeses for unique flavors in your pasta dish.
Pesto Ricotta Pasta Recipe FAQs
What type of pasta should I use for Pesto Ricotta Pasta?
Absolutely! While linguine is the star of this dish, feel free to swap it for any pasta you adore, such as penne or spaghetti. The key is to choose a pasta that holds onto the creamy sauce well!
How do I store leftovers of Pesto Ricotta Pasta?
Very simply! Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days. To keep the pasta moist, drizzle a little olive oil on top before sealing. This helps maintain that delightful creamy texture when you reheat it.
Can I freeze Pesto Ricotta Pasta?
Yes, you can! To freeze, spread the pasta in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze it for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the pasta to a freezer-safe bag, and it will be good for 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If you find your sauce on the thicker side, don’t worry! Just add a splash of reserved pasta water or a drizzle of olive oil to the mix. Stir well until you reach your desired creaminess. This not only helps in achieving the perfect texture but also elevates the flavors beautifully!
Is Pesto Ricotta Pasta suitable for a vegan diet?
Absolutely! To make this dish vegan-friendly, simply use vegan pesto and substitute whole milk ricotta with a quality plant-based ricotta. Keep an eye on any added ingredients like vegan sausage to ensure they also fit within your dietary preferences. Enjoy customizing it!
How can I customize this recipe for picky eaters?
The more the merrier! A great way to cater to picky eaters is to reserve some plain cooked pasta and serve it aside, allowing them to add marinara or olive oil. This way, everyone gets to enjoy something they love while still having the option of your delicious Pesto Ricotta Pasta!
Delicious Pesto Ricotta Pasta: Quick Weeknight Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil Pasta: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Mix Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine pesto and ricotta. Stir well to form a creamy sauce. Set aside.
- Sauté Sausage: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add vegan sausage and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain pasta, reserving ½ cup of pasta water. Return pasta to pot and add ¼ cup reserved water.
- Stir in the Sauce: Pour the pesto ricotta mixture over pasta and toss to coat evenly.
- Add Sausage: Gently fold in cooked vegan sausage and serve hot.
