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: 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli); 2 cups ricotta cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 lemon (zest and juice); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making baked ricotta lemon pasta, especially when I'm craving a dish that's both comforting and refreshing. The combination of creamy ricotta, zesty lemon, and al dente pasta creates a delightful harmony that never fails to impress. I take joy in layering the flavors, and the baking process brings everything together beautifully, resulting in a dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home or an elegant gathering with friends. Trust me, this pasta is a game changer!

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-15T12:16:05.620Z

When experimenting with baked pasta dishes, I found that adding lemon zest not only enhances the flavor but also brightens the whole dish. After several trials, I discovered that using fresh ricotta creates a beautiful creaminess that melts in your mouth while balancing the tartness of the lemon. This combination has become a staple in my kitchen, and I love sharing it with family and friends.

My secret tip for achieving the perfect baked texture is to mix the ricotta with a little olive oil and seasoning before layering it. It results in a rich, fragrant sauce that pairs perfectly with the pasta and gives the dish a lovely, golden top. You won't regret trying this method!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy ricotta paired with zesty lemon for a refreshing taste
Perfectly baked with a crispy top and creamy center
A crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make for any occasion

      

The Role of Ricotta in the Dish

Ricotta cheese is the star of this baked pasta dish, providing a creamy texture that perfectly contrasts the al dente pasta. Its mild flavor allows the zesty lemon to shine through, creating a delightful balance. When selecting ricotta, I prefer using fresh, whole-milk ricotta for the best results, as it yields a richer taste. If you can only find part-skim ricotta, using it is fine, but be aware that the dish might lack some of the luscious creaminess.

Incorporating ricotta into a baked pasta offers not just creaminess but also moisture. It helps bind the ingredients together, creating a cohesive dish. During baking, the ricotta melts and allows the flavors to meld beautifully, so it’s crucial to mix it thoroughly with the other ingredients for an even distribution. Aim for a uniform blend, and you'll end up with creamy, every-bite-delicious pasta.

Perfecting the Baking Process

Preheating your oven is essential for achieving the perfect golden top and creamy center. I recommend a temperature of 350°F (175°C) for a slow, even bake – this allows the ricotta mixture to set without drying out. Keep an eye on it as it bakes; the pasta should become bubbly and the edges should turn a lovely golden brown, indicating that it’s ready to come out.

If you prefer a crispier top, you can add an extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or even breadcrumbs on top before baking. This will give you an appealing crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy interior. Just remember to monitor it closely during the last few minutes to prevent burning. If your pasta seems overly dry while baking, consider adding a splash of reserved pasta water to keep things moist.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Baked Ricotta Lemon Pasta.

Ingredients

12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
2 cups ricotta cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 lemon (zest and juice)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to have everything measured and ready for an easy cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious Baked Ricotta Lemon Pasta.

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Pasta and Ricotta Mixture

In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta with the ricotta mixture. Mix well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pasta for about 25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Enjoy your deliciously baked pasta!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrients and flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're looking to save time, you can assemble the baked ricotta lemon pasta ahead of time. Prepare everything up to baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and let it sit for about 30 minutes at room temperature before preheating the oven. This step helps ensure even cooking throughout.

Alternately, you can freeze the unbaked pasta for up to three months. Just be sure to use a freezer-safe dish to prevent freezer burn. When ready to bake from frozen, simply add about 10-15 extra minutes to the baking time. Keep an eye on the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This baked ricotta lemon pasta pairs beautifully with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. The acidity from the dressing complements the rich, creamy pasta and enhances the lemon flavors. I also love serving it with crusty garlic bread, which is perfect for scooping up the cheesy goodness left on your plate.

For a special touch, consider adding sautéed seasonal vegetables like asparagus or spinach mixed into the pasta before baking. This not only adds extra nutrients but also creates a beautiful presentation. You can also top the finished dish with an extra drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest for a burst of freshness right before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or mascarpone for different flavors.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Yes, it freezes well. Just make sure to cover it tightly before freezing.

→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian, simply ensure all ingredients are vegetarian-friendly.