Explore the versatility of ricotta with recipes ranging from savory starters to sweet treats. From creamy fillings to baked dishes, ricotta brings texture, richness, and subtle flavor to every plate. Each recipe balances approachability with impressive taste, perfect for entertaining or everyday cooking. Enjoy ricotta in creative ways that delight at every meal. Indulgent yet versatile, these dishes shine.

Smoked Gouda and Ricotta Fritters

Close-up of hands pulling apart a crispy, golden-brown, fried cheese ball, revealing melted cheese inside. More cheese balls are visible in a bowl in the background.
Smoked Gouda and Ricotta Fritters. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

A crispy golden exterior gives way to a smoky, ultra-creamy center that feels indulgent from the very first bite. The blend of Gouda and ricotta makes each fritter rich without being heavy. They’re impressive enough for entertaining yet simple enough to enjoy any time. A guaranteed hit for anyone who loves bold, cheesy flavor.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Gouda and Ricotta Fritters

Baked Ricotta Cheese with Lemon

Baked ricotta cheese in a blue casserole dish with sliced bread.
Baked Ricotta Cheese with Lemon. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Warm, fluffy ricotta becomes even more irresistible with bright lemon and herbs that add freshness. It pairs beautifully with crunchy bread, crackers, or salty bites on the side. The prep is minimal, making it ideal for last-minute guests. A light yet satisfying appetizer that feels effortlessly elegant.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ricotta Cheese with Lemon

Asparagus & Ricotta Quiche

Asparagus & Ricotta Quiche served on a pie dish.
Asparagus & Ricotta Quiche. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Tender asparagus and creamy ricotta create a delicate balance of flavors in every slice. The quiche bakes into a soft, custardy texture that feels both comforting and refined. It works for brunch, lunch, or a simple dinner with a salad. A versatile dish that highlights springtime ingredients beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus & Ricotta Quiche

Whipped Ricotta Toast

Image shows a white plate with whipped ricotta toast drizzled with olive oil on it.
Whipped Ricotta Toast. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Fluffy, airy ricotta adds instant richness to your morning toast, turning a simple breakfast into something special. The flavor adapts easily to sweet fruit, crunchy nuts, or savory toppings. It can be made ahead, making busy mornings feel a little smoother. A delicious grab-and-go option with endless variations.
Get the Recipe: Whipped Ricotta Toast

Ricotta Crostini with Peaches and Prosciutto

Fresh sage leaves piled onto a ricotta crostini with peaches and prosciutto.
Ricotta Crostini with Peaches and Prosciutto. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

Creamy ricotta, juicy peaches, and salty prosciutto create the perfect sweet-savory bite. A drizzle of honey and crisp sage take it to another level, adding aroma and texture. Minimal prep makes it ideal for gatherings or quick snacks. Every piece delivers big flavor with almost no effort.
Get the Recipe: Ricotta Crostini with Peaches and Prosciutto

Lemon Ricotta Muffins

Lemon muffins on a wood cutting board.
Lemon Ricotta Muffins. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Fresh lemon zest and rich ricotta work together to create muffins that are moist, bright, and full of flavor. Olive oil adds a subtle fruitiness that sets them apart from classic lemon muffins. They’re perfect with coffee, as a snack, or as a light dessert. A simple bake that feels bakery-worthy.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Ricotta Muffins

Roasted Red Pepper and Ricotta Frittata

A slice of frittata on a plate.
Roasted Red Pepper and Ricotta Frittata. Photo credit: Trina Krug.

Soft ricotta melts into the eggs, creating a fluffy base for roasted red peppers, spinach, and garlic. The low-carb recipe stays satisfying without feeling heavy. It’s easy enough for weekday breakfasts yet special enough for hosting. Meal-prep friendly and packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Red Pepper and Ricotta Frittata

Easy Lemon Ricotta Cookies

Lemon ricotta cookies on rack with icing bowl.
Easy Lemon Ricotta Cookies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Light lemon notes brighten the tender, cake-like texture of these small-batch cookies. Ricotta keeps them incredibly soft while adding subtle richness. They make a lovely treat for gifting or snacking. Sweet, simple, and always crowd-pleasing.
Get the Recipe: Easy Lemon Ricotta Cookies

Whipped Ricotta, The Little Black Dress of Cheese

A dish of creamy whipped ricotta drizzled with olive oil, garnished with fresh thyme leaves and a sprinkle of lemon zest
Whipped Ricotta, The Little Black Dress of Cheese. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

A silky, cloud-like texture makes whipped ricotta endlessly versatile for sweet or savory dishes. It spreads beautifully on bread, pairs well with fruit, and elevates appetizers effortlessly. Its mild flavor adapts to herbs, citrus, honey, or spices. A kitchen staple that always looks elegant.
Get the Recipe: Whipped Ricotta, The Little Black Dress of Cheese

Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

A lasagna being dished up.
Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Layers of creamy ricotta and tender spinach create a comforting, meat-free lasagna everyone can enjoy. The flavors meld together as it bakes, resulting in a smooth, cheesy filling. It’s hearty without being too heavy, making it great for weeknights or gatherings. A classic Italian dish done simply and deliciously.
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes

Ricotta and Tomato Pasta in a white bowl.
Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Warm pasta gets coated with creamy ricotta that melts into a velvety sauce. Fresh tomatoes add brightness, balancing the richness perfectly. The dish comes together quickly but tastes like something slow-cooked. Ideal as a cozy main or a flavorful side.
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes

Stuffed Shells with Spinach and Ricotta

Stuffed pasta shells filled with spinach and ricotta, served on a dark plate with tomato sauce, accompanied by a gold fork and garnished with herbs—a perfect addition to your collection of ricotta recipes.
Stuffed Shells with Spinach and Ricotta. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Large pasta shells cradle a rich mixture of ricotta and spinach, creating a comforting, cheesy filling. Baking them in marinara gives everything a warm, bubbling finish. It’s a satisfying vegetarian dinner that still feels hearty. Perfect for family meals or make-ahead nights.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Shells with Spinach and Ricotta

Eggplant Napoleons with Whipped Ricotta

Three stacked breaded patties layered with creamy cheese and roasted tomatoes, garnished with herbs—an elegant addition to ricotta appetizers—served on a decorative plate with a fork and knife.
Eggplant Napoleons with Whipped Ricotta. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

Crisp fried eggplant layered with whipped ricotta and roasted tomatoes creates an elegant stack of textures. Each layer brings a mix of richness, acidity, and freshness. It feels indulgent yet surprisingly light. A beautiful choice for appetizers or a refined light meal.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Napoleons with Whipped Ricotta

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, I’m Lucy! I’m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. I’ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

Read More About Me

Follow Lucy on social media:

Posted in:

You May Also Like:

Sign up with your email address to receive a 5-day series of Southern Cooking Secrets, followed by weekly emails with recipes and tips. We won't send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *