Creamy Spinach Ricotta Pasta

Name: Creamy Spinach Ricotta Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g pasta of your choice; Salt, for boiling water; 2 cups fresh spinach; 250g ricotta cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Feel-Good Plates

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Ricotta Pasta for our family dinners. The combination of rich ricotta cheese with fresh spinach creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and elegant. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for impressing guests. With a few simple ingredients, I can whip up a creamy, dreamy sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. It's the kind of dish that makes everyone feel at home, and I often think of it as a warm hug on a plate.

Created by

Jenna Rowland

Last updated on 2026-02-08T02:45:36.208Z

When I first tried making Creamy Spinach Ricotta Pasta, I was experimenting with my staple ingredients. I realized that the creamy texture of ricotta blends perfectly with sautéed spinach, creating a deliciously smooth sauce. The method worked beautifully, enhancing the flavors with a hint of garlic and nutmeg, which adds warmth to the dish.

I also learned that adding a splash of pasta water helps to create a silky sauce that clings to each strand of pasta. It's a trick I now swear by! This pasta dish has become a major hit at our gatherings, often leading to second helpings and requests for the recipe.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that envelops every bite of pasta
Rich flavor from fresh spinach and ricotta cheese
Quick and delicious, making it perfect for weeknight dinners

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the ricotta cheese. Its creamy texture and mild flavor help to create the luxurious sauce that clings to each pasta strand. When selecting ricotta, look for one that is fresh and has a slightly grainy texture, which will contribute to the overall mouthfeel of the dish. If you're in a pinch, cottage cheese can work as a substitute, but be sure to blend it until smooth for the best results.

Fresh spinach not only adds a vibrant color to the dish but also provides essential nutrients like iron and vitamins A and K. When sautéing, be cautious not to overcook the spinach; it should just wilt, maintaining a touch of its bright green hue. If fresh spinach isn't available, you can use frozen spinach, but remember to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the sauce.

Garlic is pivotal for building depth of flavor in this creamy sauce. Sauté it just until fragrant to avoid bitterness, which can occur if garlic is cooked too long. If you prefer a bolder garlic flavor, feel free to increase the amount, or even roast the garlic beforehand to add a softer, sweeter taste.

Perfecting the Technique

When cooking pasta, it's essential to salt your boiling water generously; this is your only chance to season the pasta itself. Aim for water that tastes slightly like the sea. This step really elevates the flavor of your final dish. Remember to check your pasta a minute or two before the package instructions indicate for 'al dente' doneness, as it will continue to cook slightly after being combined with the sauce.

To achieve that silky, creamy sauce, the key is in the timing and combining method. Once you’ve added the ricotta to the sautéed spinach, lower the heat to prevent the sauce from breaking, which can happen if overheated. Mix in the reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired creaminess; it should be glossy and cling to the pasta without being overly thick or runny.

Always reserve some pasta water before draining, as it is the lifeblood of your sauce. This starchy water can help to emulsify and bind the sauce to the pasta, creating a seamless blend of flavors. If the sauce seems too thick after tossing it with the pasta, just add a splash more while stirring. The visual cue is that it should flow but not pool excessively on the plate.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

300g pasta of your choice
Salt, for boiling water

For the Creamy Sauce

2 cups fresh spinach
250g ricotta cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Make sure to choose a pasta shape that holds the sauce well, such as penne or fusilli.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Sauté the Spinach

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the fresh spinach and sauté for 2-3 minutes until wilted.

Prepare the Sauce

Lower the heat and add the ricotta cheese to the skillet, mixing until well combined. Stir in nutmeg, salt, and pepper, then add a little reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce, adjusting with more pasta water as needed. Mix well to ensure all the pasta is coated.

Serve

Plate the pasta and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy your creamy spinach ricotta pasta!

For an extra kick, you can add red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding grilled chicken or sun-dried tomatoes for additional flavors and textures.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Creamy Spinach Ricotta Pasta can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for busy weeknights. After preparing the dish, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to help revive the creamy consistency, as the sauce may thicken upon standing.

If you plan to freeze the pasta, it’s best to do so before adding the cheese component. Cook the pasta and spinach separately, and combine with the ricotta sauce right before serving. Once frozen, it can last for about 2-3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating, which will help maintain the sauce's desired texture.

For those who prefer a lighter dish, consider using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta as a swap. Both options work wonderfully with the creamy sauce while adding their unique textures and flavors. Whole wheat pasta adds a nutty taste, while gluten-free varieties keep the dish accessible for those with dietary restrictions.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To enhance your serving experience, consider pairing this creamy pasta with a light salad dressed in a citrus vinaigrette. The acid from the dressing will cut through the richness of the dish, creating a balanced meal. A simple arugula or mixed greens salad works beautifully, topped with cherry tomatoes for added freshness.

If you're looking to elevate this dish further, consider adding toasted pine nuts or a handful of sun-dried tomatoes for a delightful crunch and an additional layer of flavor. Both ingredients will play off the creaminess of the ricotta while introducing an irresistible contrast. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also be sprinkled on top for a burst of color and freshness.

For those who enjoy a hint of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes added to the sautéed garlic can elevate the flavor profile. If you like, a squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten up the dish, making it more refreshing during warmer months. Don't hesitate to experiment with flavors that suit your palate!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the sauce.

→ What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle work wonderfully for holding the creamy sauce.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and then simply add it to the cooked pasta when you're ready to serve.

→ Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute ricotta with a dairy-free ricotta alternative or blend silken tofu with nutritional yeast for a similar texture.