A Guide to Ricotta Cheese in 2025
When you think of comforting Italian food, ricotta cheese probably isn’t far behind. This soft, mild-flavored cheese is an amazingly versatile ingredient that is at home in dinner recipes like lasagna as it is in desserts like cheesecake.
But what exactly is ricotta? How is it made and what makes it different from other cheeses? In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about ricotta cheese, including the best ways to enjoy it, how to make a fresh batch at home and what to expect when it comes to ricotta cheese price at your local store or market.
Jump to Section
- What Is Ricotta Cheese?
- The Best Ways to Eat Ricotta Cheese
- Best Ricotta Cheese Recipes
- Is Ricotta Cheese a Healthy Cheese?
- Ricotta Cheese FAQs
What Is Ricotta Cheese?
Ricotta is a fresh cheese with a soft, slightly grainy texture. It’s sort of like thick, creamy sour cream but with an additional richness to it. The word “ricotta” actually means “recooked” in Italian, which hints at how it’s made.
You see, ricotta comes from an ingenious trick where cheesemakers take their leftover whey and heat it up again. To transform that whey into ricotta, it’s gently reheated, often with a splash of whole milk and a bit of acid like vinegar or lemon juice.
As the mixture warms, tiny curds begin to form and thicken. These curds are then scooped into cheesecloth and drained, revealing fresh and delicate ricotta. That’s the classic, old-world method.
When it comes to ricotta cheese recipes in the U.S., things are a little different. A lot of American ricotta is made straight from whole milk instead of just whey. The process is pretty much the same, though: heat the milk, add acid and strain the curds.
The result is a rich, fresh, milk-based ricotta that’s ready to use. Since it’s not aged, ricotta retains a high moisture content, making it soft, spreadable and best enjoyed shortly after it's made.
The firm style, usually found in plastic tubs, is made by large manufacturers using machines that are designed to break up the delicate curds. This gives the cheese a drier, more crumbly texture.
While it might not be ideal for spreading on toast, it’s perfect for baked dishes like lasagna, where its sturdiness holds up well between layers of sauce and pasta. Creamier versions are softer and easier to spread on toast or dollop on roasted veggies.
Now, if you take ricotta, press it, salt it and let it age, you end up with ricotta salata. It’s firmer, saltier and kind of like feta; amazing crumbled over salads or some ricotta cheese pasta.
With the generally affordable ricotta cheese price, it’s easy to keep this delicious ingredient on hand, whether it’s the classic whole-milk or lighter part-skim version.
You can expect to spend between $4 and $10 for a 15 to 16-ounce container, depending on the brand and variety.
The History of Ricotta Cheese
Ricotta cheese has humble beginnings. It was first made by small farmers who wanted to make the most of what they had, using the leftover whey from making other cheeses to create an extra food source and a bit of extra income.
As one of Italy’s oldest and most beloved cheeses, it has a history stretching back thousands of years. Like many ancient foods, the exact origins of ricotta are a bit of a mystery.
However, most agree it likely came from Southern Italy during the Bronze Age, between 3300 and 1200 BCE. Over time, as people developed a taste for its light, creamy flavor, cheese makers in Italy and beyond began making ricotta with whole milk too, not just leftovers, to keep up with demand.
What Type of Cheese is Ricotta Cheese?
Ricotta is a fresh cheese, which means it hasn’t been aged like harder cheeses such as cheddar or parmesan. Because it’s so fresh, it holds a lot of moisture and this is what gives it its creamy texture.
This mild, white cheese has a hint of sweetness, too, making it a versatile choice in both savory and sweet dishes. When comparing ricotta cheese vs cottage cheese, ricotta tends to be smoother and richer, while cottage cheese is lumpier and has a slightly tangier taste.
Like many classic cheeses, there are vegan versions of ricotta as well. Some plant-based ricotta cheese recipes use tofu, soy milk or even cashews. You can find dairy-free ricotta on Amazon, but really, it’s usually best (and more delicious) to make your own at home.
The Best Ways to Eat Ricotta Cheese
Ricotta is one of those ingredients that can do it all. While it’s often used in sweet dishes, there are also plenty of authentic ricotta cheese recipes for savory dishes.
In the morning, you can spread your ricotta cheese on toast or mix it into a veggie-packed frittata. And in the evenings, you can stir it into creamy pastas or stuff it into pasta shells, ravioli and stromboli.
Ricotta cheese also makes a fantastic dip when blended with herbs, garlic or lemon zest. And for dessert, you can pair it with whatever fruit is in season. Ricotta’s mild flavor works beautifully with berries, figs or peaches and you can also sweeten it with a little sugar, cinnamon or orange blossom water.
Of course, it’s a classic in Italian sweets like cannoli and cheesecake and shows up in cookies and pastries as well. Since ricotta originally comes from Sicily, it naturally pairs well with Italian flavors.
Add a few spoonfuls to your favorite ricotta cheese pasta or pizza for an instant boost of creaminess or add a dollop of it on soups or roasted vegetables. However you use it, ricotta proves that a soft cheese can be both versatile and irresistible.
Sparkling wines are a great match for rich cheeses like ricotta because their bright acidity and lively bubbles help balance out the creaminess. If you’re serving ricotta cheese pasta, a crisp white wine like pinot grigio or sauvignon blanc would be a great choice. You could also go for a chenin blanc or even a light, bubbly prosecco.
How To Make Ricotta Cheese at Home
Making ricotta cheese at home is easier than you might think. It's almost as easy as making pimento cheese! All you need is half a gallon of whole milk and two cups of buttermilk. That’s enough to make about one and a half cups of fresh ricotta cheese.
Just be sure not to let the milk boil, as boiling makes the curds rubbery instead of soft. Since homemade ricotta cheese is best when it’s fresh, plan to use it within a couple of days. It’s perfect for a weekend brunch or a cozy dinner, especially if you’re having guests.
If you need to store it longer, you can freeze it for up to six months. Just keep in mind that freezing may slightly change the texture and flavor, so let it thaw slowly in the fridge before using.
As mentioned, ricotta cheese is made when milk or whey is turned slightly acidic, which helps the proteins clump into curds. You can add lemon juice, vinegar or buttermilk to do this. Some commercial cheeses also use rennet, an enzyme that helps thicken the milk.
To get those soft, fluffy curds, gently heat the mixture to just below boiling — between 175°F and 185°F (79–85°C). At this temperature, the curds form without needing too much acid, which keeps the flavor mild and milky rather than tangy. Use just enough acid to get a good yield and no more; that’s the secret to creamy, slightly sweet ricotta.
Best Ricotta Cheese Recipes
Ricotta cheese is one of those ingredients that quietly makes everything better. If you’ve ever wanted an easy recipe using ricotta cheese or wondered what an authentic ricotta cheese recipe might look like, here are a few worthy contenders.
Lasagna
Add ricotta to your lasagna for a creamy and delicious twist. You can use part-skim ricotta for a light version or opt for whole-milk ricotta cheese for a creamier, richer bite.
The best part is that you can make these your own with whatever ingredients you have on hand. Toss in cooked sausage, sautéed veggies or a sprinkle of your favorite cheese blend.
Ricotta-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Big, meaty portobello caps are the perfect base for a rich and cheesy filling and their individual size makes them ideal for meal-prepping high-protein meals. You’ll mix creamy ricotta cheese, mozzarella, nutty parmesan and a little fresh parsley for a delicious stuffing that tastes like a restaurant-quality dish.
A crack of black pepper on top finishes it perfectly. You can serve these mushrooms with a side of grilled asparagus or a fresh green salad and you’ve got a balanced, satisfying meal that looks as good as it tastes.
Creamy Spinach Dip with Ricotta
No party spread is complete without a good spinach dip. This is an easy recipe using ricotta cheese and you can make a chilled version loaded with tender cooked spinach, melty mozzarella, sharp parmigiano reggiano and rich ricotta cheese.
You can also add a little extra texture and crunch with chopped earthy vegetables like water chestnuts or artichokes. For best results, make it the night before to let the flavors blend even more beautifully and serve it with an assortment of fresh vegetables, toasted baguette slices or sturdy crackers.
Is Ricotta Cheese a Healthy Cheese?
Ricotta cheese is one of the lighter choices when it comes to cheese. It’s surprisingly low in fat compared to many other cheeses and its mild flavor makes it easy to use in both sweet and savory recipes, even on cheese boards.
Nutritionally, ricotta offers a lot. It’s rich in calcium, vitamin B12 and provides a solid amount of ricotta cheese protein, along with a boost of vitamin A. The version made from whole milk does contain more saturated fat and cholesterol but there are reduced-fat options available if you’re watching those numbers.
A good example of this would be the Galbani part-skim milk ricotta available on Amazon. A half-cup of ricotta has about 8.9 grams of carbs, with just 0.3 grams coming from sugar, and no fiber.
It’s low in sugar and sodium and its creamy texture makes it a great addition to meals or healthy snacks. It’s a versatile, nutrient-rich food that fits well into a low-carb or balanced diet, and it’s easy to enjoy every day.
Ricotta Cheese FAQs
What Is Ricotta Cheese Mainly Used For?
Ricotta is a go-to cheese for Italian dishes like lasagna and baked pasta casseroles. It's often used to stuff pasta shells, ravioli and manicotti. In desserts, ricotta can stand in for the common ricotta cheese substitute, mascarpone.
You’ll see it in cheesecakes, cannoli fillings or layered inside cakes. Beyond pasta and sweets, ricotta works as a creamy swap for mayonnaise in sandwiches or folded into omelets and quiches. Italians also love it simply spread on toast with a drizzle of honey. It’s especially delicious paired with fresh figs.
Is Ricotta Cheese the Same as Cottage Cheese?
Ricotta and cottage cheese are both soft, high-protein cheeses but they aren't quite the same. When comparing ricotta cheese vs cottage cheese, the differences become clear in both taste and texture. Ricotta has a naturally sweet and mild flavor, while cottage cheese tends to taste tangier due to how it's made.
Cottage cheese is thicker and lumpier because it's made from curds, while ricotta is smoother and creamier since it’s made from whey. Ricotta also usually has less salt and a finer texture, making it feel a bit more luxurious on the tongue.
While cottage cheese can work as a ricotta cheese substitute, you may want to blend it briefly for a smoother consistency that more closely mimics ricotta's distinctive creaminess.
Do You Eat Ricotta Cheese by Itself?
Absolutely. If you like cottage cheese or Greek yogurt, eating a few spoonfuls of ricotta will feel pretty natural. It's mild, creamy and easy to enjoy all by itself.
Why Use Ricotta Cheese in Lasagna?
Ricotta is a classic lasagna ingredient for a reason. Unlike a heavy béchamel sauce, ricotta adds lightness to counter the richness of meat sauce and melted mozzarella. Its subtle flavor profile acts as the perfect canvas for herbs and other seasonings to shine through.
The way ricotta is distributed evenly throughout the dish ensures every forkful delivers that perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Now that you know more about what ricotta is, how it’s made, and all the delicious ways to use it, don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular favorite in your kitchen. After all, sometimes the simplest ingredients really do make the most unforgettable dishes.
The next time you're planning a pasta night, assembling a cheese board, or looking for a nutritious, protein-rich snack, consider reaching for ricotta. To learn even more, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!
