There are some dishes that feel like a hug in a bowl, and this 35-Minute Creamy Roasted Tomato Ricotta Pasta Bliss is exactly that. I still remember the first time I made a version of this pasta on a busy weeknight, craving something cozy yet fresh. My grandmother, who loved simplicity in cooking, always said, “If the ingredients are good, don’t do too much.” That philosophy shines here.
Roasting tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness, while creamy ricotta melts into a silky sauce that clings perfectly to every bite of pasta. This dish is wonderfully flexible—light enough for summer evenings, yet rich and comforting for winter dinners. Best of all, it comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for family meals, casual gatherings, or meal prep for the week ahead.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply want a dependable, flavorful pasta recipe, this American-inspired comfort dish delivers every time.
Why You’ll Love This 35-Minute Creamy Roasted Tomato Ricotta Pasta Bliss
- Ready in just 35 minutes
- Perfect for summer and winter
- Creamy without heavy cream
- Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing
- Easy to customize with protein or vegetables
- Ideal for 8 servings
This 35-Minute Creamy Roasted Tomato Ricotta Pasta Bliss balances richness and freshness beautifully, making it a staple you’ll return to again and again.
Key Ingredients That Make This Pasta Shine
Roasted Tomatoes
Roasting tomatoes intensifies their flavor, creating a sweet, slightly caramelized base for the sauce. Cherry or grape tomatoes work best, but Roma tomatoes are a great option too.
Ricotta Cheese
Ricotta adds creaminess without weighing the dish down. Choose whole-milk ricotta for the smoothest, richest texture.
Pasta
Short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli are ideal because they trap the creamy roasted tomato ricotta sauce perfectly.
Olive Oil & Garlic
A good-quality olive oil and fresh garlic are essential for depth and aroma. For tips on choosing olive oil, check out this guide from Serious Eats:
👉 https://www.seriouseats.com/how-to-buy-extra-virgin-olive-oil
Ingredients (Serves 8)
For the Roasted Tomatoes
- 4 pounds cherry or grape tomatoes
- 6 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Pasta & Sauce
- 2 pounds pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli)
- 2 cups whole-milk ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- Extra salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make 35-Minute Creamy Roasted Tomato Ricotta Pasta Bliss
Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Spread the tomatoes on a large baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, add garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Toss well.
Roast for 20–25 minutes, until the tomatoes burst and develop caramelized edges. Stir halfway through for even roasting.
👉 Learn more about why roasting enhances tomato flavor from Bon Appétit:
https://www.bonappetit.com/story/how-to-roast-tomatoes
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
While the tomatoes roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
👉 If you want perfectly cooked pasta every time, this guide from The Kitchn is excellent:
https://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-cook-pasta-47342
Step 3: Make the Creamy Ricotta Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese and grated Parmesan. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Once the tomatoes are roasted, transfer them (and all the juices) directly into the ricotta mixture. Stir gently until creamy and well combined.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the hot pasta directly into the bowl with the roasted tomato ricotta sauce. Toss gently, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce becomes silky and coats the pasta evenly.
Finish with fresh basil and adjust seasoning if needed.
Your 35-Minute Creamy Roasted Tomato Ricotta Pasta Bliss is now ready to serve.
Summer & Winter Serving Tips
For Summer
- Serve with a crisp green salad
- Add lemon zest for brightness
- Pair with iced tea or sparkling water
For Winter
- Serve with garlic bread or focaccia
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach
- Pair with a warm vegetable soup
This versatility is what makes 35-Minute Creamy Roasted Tomato Ricotta Pasta Bliss such a year-round favorite.
Easy Customizations & Add-Ins
- Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage
- Vegetarian Boost: Roasted zucchini, eggplant, or spinach
- Extra Creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream or mascarpone
- Spicy: Increase red pepper flakes or add chili oil
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or milk
- Avoid microwaving on high to prevent the ricotta from drying out
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Roast the tomatoes and prepare the ricotta mixture ahead. Combine with pasta just before serving.
Can I freeze this pasta?
Freezing is not recommended, as ricotta can change texture once thawed.
Can I use low-fat ricotta?
You can, but whole-milk ricotta provides the best creaminess for this recipe.
Final Thoughts
This 35-Minute Creamy Roasted Tomato Ricotta Pasta Bliss proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With simple ingredients, bold roasted flavors, and a luxuriously creamy texture, it’s a dish that feels special while remaining effortless.
If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how you made it your own. Did you add protein? Extra herbs? A spicy twist? Share your experience and let this recipe become part of your kitchen story ❤️