48 Ricotta Recipes: Savory and Sweet Ideas

When it comes to cheese, few options are as versatile and delicious as ricotta. From savory to sweet, there are countless ricotta recipes that you can make.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• Savory recipes
• Sweet recipes
• FAQ’s

What is Ricotta?

Ricotta is a soft, fresh cheese originating from Italy.

Ricotta means “recooked” in Italian, which refers to the traditional cheese-making method. 

Leftover whey is heated to make ricotta, and citric acid, white vinegar, or lemon juice is added to help curtail the whey proteins. This forms loose curds that are drained and can then be collected.

Ricotta has a mild, slightly sweet taste and a creamy texture, making it a versatile ingredient.

While ricotta is conveniently available on grocery store shelves, making homemade ricotta cheese using just a few basic ingredients is simple.

48 best ricotta cheese recipes

Savory Recipes with ricotta

Ricotta adds a creamy and rich element to savory dishes.

Its versatility allows it to be used in various recipes, from pasta to appetizer recipes. Here are some great recipes that highlight the deliciousness of ricotta cheese:

#1 Pasta with ricotta

Creamy pasta tosses ricotta with lemon zest, parmesan cheese, and fresh basil for a simple weeknight meal.

It’s one of my favorite easy ricotta recipes.

#2 SMOKED SALMON CROSTINI WITH DILL RICOTTA

This Smoked Salmon Crostini makes a great party appetizer!

The crostini is rubbed with garlic and a creamy lemon dill ricotta spread.

#3 Maltese Pastizzi Recipe with Ricotta Filling

This easy, make-at-home recipe outlines how to make traditional ricotta-filled Maltese pastizzi using phyllo dough and about 30 minutes of your time!

#4 Eggplant Lasagna Roll Ups

These eggplant lasagna rolls are so delicious!

With a rich ricotta filling, they’re loaded with protein and flavor.

#5 SPINACH AND RICOTTA STUFFED PASTA

You will love this delicious stuffed pasta with ricotta and spinach, topped with cheese, and baked to perfection.

It is a perfect weeknight dinner the whole family will love.

#6 Baked Ricotta

A great appetizer recipe that is quick to make.

Serve it as a light lunch with a salad or as part of a buffet table or charcuterie board.

#7 Sweet Pea Ricotta Crostini

Toasted bread topped with a scrumptious blend of fresh ricotta, sweet garden peas, and herbs makes for the perfect light yet satisfying appetizer.

#8 Ricotta Dip with Roasted Grapes

A creamy ricotta cheese dip recipe perfect to serve on special occasions. 

#9 Homemade Ricotta Gnocchi

Homemade ricotta gnocchi paired with a buttery lemon pepper sauce.

#10 Honey Ricotta Toast with Pistachios

A savory and sweet appetizer.

#11 RICOTTA AND PUMPKIN PINWHEELS

These cute and festive pinwheels are perfect for fall gatherings.

The combination of creamy ricotta and flavorful pumpkin rolled up in flaky puff pastry is a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

#12 Zucchini Galette

This rustic and flavorful galette features a buttery crust filled with sautéed zucchini and creamy ricotta.

#13 Mezzelune Pasta with Cavolo Nero & Ricotta

Mezzelune pasta filled with a creamy ricotta and cavolo nero mixture, tossed in a delicate sauce, is a true Italian cuisine masterpiece.

#14 PROSCIUTTO RICOTTA PIZZA

Crispy prosciutto, creamy ricotta, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze create a flavor combination that will transport you to Italy with this tasty white pizza.

#15 HERB RICOTTA STUFFED CHICKEN BREAST

With flavorful herbed ricotta, this is the perfect chicken dinner recipe.

It is a simple recipe that all the family will love. 

#16 Pizza Rustica (savory ricotta pie)

This is a traditional Italian Easter pie.

Layers of ricotta, cheese, and cured meats encased in a flaky crust make for a hearty and delicious meal.

#17 PORK RICOTTA AND SAGE MEATBALLS

Take your meatball game to the next level with this fantastic recipe.

Moist and tender meatballs made with pork, ricotta, and sage are a crowd-pleasing option for any occasion.

#18 WHIPPED RICOTTA

 This whipped ricotta is perfect as a spread on crusty bread or as a dip for fresh vegetables.

#19 Ricotta Cavatelli Recipe

Homemade cavatelli pasta combined with creamy ricotta is a match made in pasta heaven.

#20 Lasagna Roll Ups

Put a twist on the classic lasagna with these delicious roll-ups.

#21 TOMATO TARTLETS with ricotta

Transform pantry staples into party perfection!

Flaky puff pastry twirls embrace creamy ricotta, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant herbs in these 30-minute Tomato Tartlets – individual bites or a stunning centerpiece, ready to steal the show at your next gathering.

#22 Bucatini Pasta with Ricotta and Tomatoes

This hearty pasta dish features bucatini pasta tossed with creamy ricotta, slow-roasted eggplant, and juicy tomatoes.

#23 Baked Ziti

Layers of ziti pasta, rich tomato sauce, and creamy ricotta, all baked to perfection, create a dish that will warm.

#24 WHIPPED RICOTTA CROSTINI

These elegant and versatile crostini are perfect for any occasion.

Light and fluffy whipped ricotta spread onto crispy baguette slices, topped with your favorite ingredients, such as fresh herbs, cherry tomatoes, or prosciutto, make for an impressive appetizer.

#25 Tuscan Mushroom Ricotta Mini Tarts

These savory mini tarts are bursting with flavors.

A buttery crust filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta and sautéed Tuscan mushrooms creates a bite-sized delight.

#26 Ricotta and tuna frittata

This protein-packed frittata is a delicious, nutritious breakfast, brunch, or light dinner option.

#27 Homemade Pumpkin Ricotta Gnocchi

Put a seasonal twist on traditional gnocchi with this recipe.

Soft and pillowy pumpkin ricotta gnocchi tossed in a sage butter sauce.

#28 SPEEDY SPANAKOPITA WONTON CUPS

These speedy spanakopita cups feature a delicious spinach feta ricotta filling baked into crispy wonton cups!

It makes this beloved party appetizer fast and delicious!

#29 CONCHIGLIONE PASTA WITH SPINACH AND RICOTTA

Giant Conchiglione pasta! Stuff giant pasta shells with a quick and easy spinach and ricotta mixture, and pour a simple homemade marinara sauce on top before baking.

#30 gnudi – ricotta dumplings

Tender ricotta dumplings with tomato sauce are the best way to use ricotta.

#31 Sicilian Pesto with Ricotta and Walnuts

 A rich sauce, this pesto complements pasta and makes easy Italian appetizers spooned onto crostini with a dollop of ricotta.

The flavors of Sicily in every bite.

Sweet Recipes That Use Ricotta Cheese

Ricotta cheese adds a creamy and delicate touch to sweet recipes. Its subtle flavor allows it to enhance the taste of desserts without overpowering them.

Here are some delicious recipes that incorporate the goodness of ricotta cheese:

#1 Cannoli Icebox Cake

The cannoli flavors are easy to replicate at home with a cannoli icebox cake.

This no-bake cake recipe is extra convenient to prep ahead of time when entertaining.

#2 BAKED VANILLA RICOTTA PUDDING

This ricotta cheese dessert recipe makes for a delicious, quick, and easy-to-make dessert.

Perfect for busy weeknights!

#3 Italian ricotta cookies with Glaze

This recipe for lemon ricotta cookies is ideal when paired with a delightful lemon glaze crafted from fresh lemons, ensuring a vibrant and citrusy flavor.

#4 Ricotta Lemon Cake

The combination of creamy ricotta and bright lemon creates a refreshing and delightful dessert that is perfect for any occasion.

#5 Ricotta Doughnuts

These fluffy and irresistible doughnuts are a treat for the senses.

The addition of ricotta to the dough creates a tender and moist texture. 

#6 Sourdough French Toast Casserole With Ricotta

Sourdough bread soaked in a rich custard mixture, layered with creamy ricotta and zesty lemon, then baked to perfection, is a breakfast dream come true.

#7 Ricotta Pancakes

Super fluffy pancakes, thanks to the addition of ricotta.

#8 BANANA RICOTTA MUFFINS

These moist and flavorful muffins are my favorite way to use up ripe bananas.

Adding ricotta cheese ensures a moist and tender crumb, making these muffins a delightful treat for breakfast or a snack on the go.

#9 Italian Ricotta Pie

This traditional Italian dessert is a must-try. 

#10 Ricotta Cheesecake

#11 Fig Ricotta Tart

Buttery crust filled with creamy ricotta and topped with fresh figs creates a beautiful and delicious dessert. 

#12 Ricotta Cannoli Filling

Creamy ricotta combined with chocolate chips, orange zest, and cinnamon hints create a rich and indulgent filling for traditional cannoli shells.

#13 Cannoli Dip

If you love the flavors of cannoli but prefer a simpler approach, this dip is for you.

#14 Pear And Ricotta Cheesecake

 A creamy ricotta cheesecake base topped with juicy pears and a drizzle of honey creates an elegant and indulgent dessert.

#15 Fig Ricotta and Rum Caramel Gelato

Cool down with a scoop of this creamy and flavorful gelato.

The combination of creamy ricotta, figs, and a decadent rum caramel swirl is a summer treat that will transport you to an Italian gelateria.

#16 RICOTTA CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES

These soft and chewy cookies are a delightful twist on the classic chocolate chip cookie.

#17 Italian Baked Cassatelle

Sheets of fresh pasta are rolled around, a rich filling of ricotta, raisins, and bits of chocolate. Perfect for Easter or special occasions.

FAQ’s

Can I freeze dishes made with ricotta cheese?

Some dishes made with ricotta cheese can be frozen, but it’s best to check the specific recipe instructions.

Generally, dishes like lasagna or stuffed shells that contain ricotta can be frozen and reheated later.

However, dishes with a high ricotta content, like cheesecake or cannoli filling, may freeze poorly.

Always consult the recipe or use your judgment when freezing ricotta-based dishes.