Creamy Skillet Ricotta Pasta with Roasted Broccoli: A Flavorful Harmony in Every Bite!

Indulge in a culinary masterpiece with our Skillet Ricotta Pasta featuring golden roasted broccoli. This dish is a symphony of flavors, combining the creaminess of ricotta cheese with the nuttiness of roasted broccoli, all enveloped in a silky, garlicky sauce. Elevate your pasta experience with this quick and delightful recipe that promises to captivate your taste buds.

In our kitchen, the Skillet Ricotta Pasta has become a weeknight hero, bringing joy with its rich and comforting aroma. As the broccoli roasts to a perfect golden hue, the anticipation builds. The nonstick skillet sizzles with minced garlic, creating a fragrant base for the creamy ricotta sauce. With each toss of pasta and the addition of roasted broccoli, the kitchen transforms into a haven of irresistible flavors. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of simplicity and sophistication that the whole family adores.

Why This Skillet Ricotta Pasta:

Unveiling the Secrets of Creamy Elegance

• Silky Ricotta Sauce: Immerse your pasta in a luscious ricotta sauce, harmonized with garlic, lemon juice, and reserved pasta water for a creamy, velvety texture.
• Golden Roasted Broccoli: Elevate your dish with perfectly roasted broccoli, offering a delightful crunch and a hint of charred goodness.
• Quick and Effortless: With a nonstick skillet and a sheet pan, this recipe comes together in a breeze, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• Customizable Consistency: Adjust the thickness of the sauce to your liking by incorporating more reserved pasta water, ensuring the perfect balance for your palate.

Ingredients:

For the Skillet Ricotta Pasta

• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Kosher salt and pepper
• 8 ounces cavatappi pasta (or any preferred noodle)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 to 3/4 cup reserved pasta water
• Crushed red pepper flakes, for topping
• Parmesan cheese, optional, for sprinkling

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Toss broccoli with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20 minutes until golden and slightly charred.
2. Cook pasta in salted boiling water; reserve 1/2 to 3/4 cup of pasta water.
3. In a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat, sauté minced garlic in 1 tablespoon of olive oil for 1 minute.
4. Reduce heat to low, stir in ricotta cheese. Add salt, pepper, lemon juice, and 1/2 cup of reserved pasta water. Adjust consistency as needed.
5. Add cooked pasta, toss to coat in the ricotta mixture. Add roasted broccoli.
6. Top with crushed red pepper flakes and serve. Sprinkle with optional parmesan.

Notes: Experiment with different pasta shapes or add a splash of extra virgin olive oil for added richness. For a burst of freshness, squeeze additional lemon juice before serving. Feel free to customize by tossing in your favorite herbs or a handful of baby spinach for added greens. Enjoy the luxurious simplicity of this delightful skillet pasta!