Ricotta Macaroni and Cheese is a comforting and fun twist on the classic. It's made with creamy ricotta cheese and mozzarella which makes the sauce smooth, flavorful and perfect for clinging to every bite of pasta.
This pasta dish comes together with simple ingredients and is packed with cozy, no-fuss flavor. My toddler was a huge fan of this one - your kids will love it too!
Whether you're cooking dinner on a busy weeknight, preparing meals ahead of time or showing up with a crowd pleasing side, this dish is an excellent choice. It's quick to make, super satisfying and always a hit.
If you are looking for more macaroni and cheese recipes, check out our: Gouda Mac and Cheese, Baked White Cheddar Mac and Cheese, and Gnocchi Brie Mac and Cheese.
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Why We Love This Recipe
- Creamy: The combination of ricotta and mozzarella creates a smooth, rich cheese sauce that coats the pasta perfectly without feeling too heavy. It stays creamy even after sitting, which makes it great for leftovers too.
- Simple: This recipe uses straightforward ingredients and easy steps, so you can throw it together without any complicated prep or fancy equipment. It's ready in about 30 minutes, start to finish.
- Kid friendly: The mild cheeses and familiar flavors make this a hit with all ages. There is nothing spicy or overpowering, just cozy cheesy goodness your kids will ask for again and again.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you will need for this good mac and cheese recipe:
- Pasta: Use your favorite short pasta shape. Shells, cavatappi or elbow macaroni all work well and hold the sauce nicely.
- Butter: I prefer to use unsalted butter for this.
- Flour: Use all-purpose flour.
- Milk: I prefer whole milk for the best texture and rich flavor. Lower fat milk will work but might result in a thinner sauce.
- Ricotta cheese: Use whole milk ricotta cheese for the most flavor and best texture.
- Mozzarella cheese: Use 8 ounces of cubed mozzarella cheese.
- Salt & black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
See recipe card below for quantities.
Instructions
Let's make this creamy mac and cheese together!
- Step 1: Cook the pasta until al dente according to the package directions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir until a paste forms. Cook until it turns golden brown, about 2 minutes.
- Step 3: Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth and free of clumps.
- Step 4: Add the mozzarella, ricotta, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Add shells, stir, and serve immediately.
Substitutions and Variations
Here are some common recipe substitutions and variations for this easy recipe.
- Mozzarella: Swap with white cheddar, Monterey Jack or fontina for a different flavor and melt.
- Additions: Stir in cooked chicken, ground beef or crispy bacon for a heartier meal. Mix in sautéed garlic, caramelized onions or a pinch of crushed red pepper for a little kick. Add steamed broccoli, spinach or roasted veggies before serving.
Equipment
Here is some kitchen equipment you will need for the best mac and cheese. You can find all of these products on Amazon.
- Large Pot: A large pot is a must-have for recipes like this one. It's perfect for making the sauce and stirring everything together with the pasta all in one place.
Top Tips
Here are some expert tips to make this delicious ricotta mac and cheese:
- Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that can affect how smoothly it melts.
- Don't forget to reserve pasta water: It helps loosen the sauce if it gets too thick and keeps it silky without diluting the flavor.
- Stir the sauce constantly while adding the milk: This prevents lumps and helps the roux blend evenly.
- Serve right away: This mac and cheese is creamiest when fresh, though it still reheats well with a splash of milk.
FAQ
Yes, you can! After mixing the pasta with the sauce, transfer it to a baking dish, top with extra cheese or breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Absolutely. The mild flavors of mozzarella and ricotta make it a hit with picky eaters and there's nothing spicy or overwhelming, just creamy, cheesy pasta kids love.
Yes, you can prep it in advance and store it covered in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, gently reheat on the stove or in the oven with a splash of milk to bring back the creamy texture.
Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with this recipe:
The Best Creamy Ricotta Macaroni and Cheese
Equipment
- Large Pot
Ingredients
- 1 lb short pasta
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese cubed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cook pasta until al dente according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add flour and stir well, until a paste is formed. Cook until golden brown, about 2 minutes.
- Slowly pour in the milk. Whisk well, until mixture is smooth and there are no clumps.
- Add mozzarella, ricotta, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well, and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and continue to stir until thickened, about 5 minutes. If needed, add 2 tablespoons of pasta water at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
Recipe Storage and Reheating:
- Refrigerator Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer Storage: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating Instructions: Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk, stirring until the sauce is smooth and warmed through.
Did You Make This Recipe?
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Halle Raicevich says
The ricotta macaroni and cheese was delicious, and definitely toddler friendly. My son could not get enough! I made it without any additions or substitutions, but I would love to make it again with some caramelized onions or broccoli. I highly recommend this dish!
Christina Musgrave says
Thanks so much, Halle! I'm so glad this was a hit with your family. My toddler can't get enough of this, either! Caramelized onions and broccoli would make amazing additions to this!