Baked Ricotta Lemon Pasta

Name: Baked Ricotta Lemon Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g pasta (e.g., penne or rigatoni); 250g ricotta cheese; 1 lemon (zested and juiced); 100g grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic (minced); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love this Baked Ricotta Lemon Pasta! The creamy ricotta combined with the bright, zesty lemon transforms a simple pasta dish into something truly special. As a busy person, I appreciate how easy it is to whip up, and it makes a delightful family dinner. Plus, the baking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating that perfect bite every time. It’s an indulgent dish that doesn't require hours of preparation, making it a go-to recipe in my kitchen.

Created by

Olivia Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-15T12:52:08.943Z

When I first discovered baked pasta dishes, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could come together to create a comforting meal. This Baked Ricotta Lemon Pasta is a testament to that! I experimented with different flavor combinations but found that the freshness of lemon paired with creamy ricotta elevates it to a whole new level.

On my last try, I added a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top before baking, which not only enhanced the flavor but also made the presentation more appealing. So, don’t skip the herbs; they add a wonderful burst of freshness in every bite!

        Why You’ll Love This Recipe
        Creamy ricotta adds a rich texture to the dish.
The zesty lemon provides a refreshing brightness.
Easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners.

      

The Role of Ricotta in Your Pasta

Using ricotta cheese in this Baked Ricotta Lemon Pasta adds a creamy texture that complements the pasta beautifully. Ricotta’s mild flavor allows the vibrant lemon zest and juice to shine through without being overpowering. It's also a great source of protein, making your dish not just tasty but nourishing as well. When baked, the ricotta becomes slightly firmer, contributing to a lovely contrast with the al dente pasta, creating a delightful mouthfeel.

To ensure the best texture, choose a high-quality ricotta that is creamy but not too watery. If your ricotta is on the wetter side, you might want to drain it using a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth for about 30 minutes before mixing it into your dish. This helps prevent the final bake from becoming too loose, ensuring the pasta maintains a nice structure.

Maximizing Flavor with Lemon

Lemon plays a crucial role in this dish, providing brightness and a refreshing quality that counters the creaminess of the ricotta. The zest contains essential oils that add an aromatic quality, while the juice brings a necessary acidity that enhances all other flavors. Be generous with the lemon zest; it really amplifies the dish's freshness. I recommend using a microplane to easily achieve finely grated zest, ensuring it incorporates smoothly into the ricotta mix.

If you're looking for an alternative to lemon, you might consider using lime for a different twist, but it won't provide the same level of brightness. Alternatively, a splash of white wine can be added to the ricotta mixture for a more complex flavor profile; just reduce the olive oil slightly to balance the liquid components.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Baked Ricotta Lemon Pasta can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. After baking, allow the dish to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. It also freezes well; just keep it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.

If reheating from frozen, increase the baking time to around 30-40 minutes. Cover the dish with foil for the first 20 minutes to prevent the top from browning too quickly, then uncover to allow it to bubble and become golden. This method preserves the creamy texture and flavor integration achieved during the initial bake.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare a delightful meal:

Ingredients

300g pasta (e.g., penne or rigatoni)
250g ricotta cheese
1 lemon (zested and juiced)
100g grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic (minced)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Make sure to have everything on hand for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Baked Ricotta Lemon Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

Boil salted water in a large pot, and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine and Transfer

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the ricotta mixture. Add half of the grated Parmesan and mix until evenly coated.

Bake the Pasta

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan on top and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 25 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Serve

Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Enjoy your delicious and creamy baked pasta!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, try adding sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the pasta mix before baking.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables, which can balance the richness of the baked pasta. A light vinaigrette or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the salad can enhance the meal's overall brightness. Serving with crusty bread is also a fantastic option, as it allows you to scoop up every last bit of the cheesy pasta.

For a more substantial meal, consider adding a protein. Grilled chicken or shrimp would complement the flavors beautifully. You can easily incorporate these by layering them within the pasta before baking or serving them on the side for a delightful contrast.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different herbs in the ricotta mixture. Fresh dill or parsley can provide a unique twist, enhancing the dish's freshness. You could also try adding spinach or other greens to the pasta before baking for added nutrition and flavor. Lightly sauté the greens in olive oil until just wilted before mixing them in to keep their vivid greens bright.

For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture. This addition can elevate the dish and give it an enjoyable heat that contrasts nicely with the creamy ricotta. Adjust the quantity according to your spice preference, and remember to introduce these spices gradually to keep the balance in check.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or mozzarella for a different flavor.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the pasta and cheese mixture ahead and store it in the fridge. Just bake it right before serving.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this pasta dish to complete your meal.

→ Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this Baked Ricotta Lemon Pasta is a vegetarian-friendly dish!