Name: fluffy ricotta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 ounces Parmesan cheese, finely grated; 16-ounce ricotta cheese; 2 large eggs; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped

Meet your new favorite comfort food: fluffy ricotta. This delightfully airy, cheesy creation is everything you could want in a dish—light, tender, and brimming with flavor from nutty Parmesan and fragrant basil. It’s the ideal recipe when you want something that’s both decadent and unfussy, and with its delicate texture and savory notes, fluffy ricotta has a way of turning any meal into an occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making fluffy ricotta only requires a handful of classic ingredients, each carefully chosen for the perfect balance of taste and texture. Every element brings something special to the table, elevating the humble ricotta into a show-stopping dish you’ll crave again and again.

Parmesan cheese: Finely grated Parmesan adds a nutty, salty backbone and helps firm up the mixture just enough for perfect structure.
Ricotta cheese: The star of the show! Use whole-milk ricotta for the richest, fluffiest result.
Eggs: These bind everything together and are key to the airy, cloud-like bite in each fluffy ricotta ball.
Salt: Just a touch really wakes up all the classic Italian flavors.
Black pepper: For a little pop of gentle heat and earthy complexity.
Ground nutmeg: A classic with ricotta, nutmeg adds warmth and depth (trust me, it ties it all together beautifully).
Fresh basil: Chopped basil gives a burst of herbaceous color and flavor in every bite.

How to Make fluffy ricotta

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by getting your oven ready—preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Baking is essential for achieving that signature fluffiness, and having a hot oven ensures the ricotta gnudi cook quickly, staying ultra-tender inside.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the Parmesan cheese, fluffy ricotta, eggs, salt, pepper, and ground nutmeg. Stir the mixture thoroughly until it looks smooth and everything is evenly incorporated. This step is what gives every bite its creamy, perfectly balanced flavor.

Step 3: Add Fresh Basil

Fold in the chopped fresh basil. The aromatic pop of basil truly transforms fluffy ricotta into something special—so don’t skip this! If you want even more color and zing, toss in a bit of extra basil at the end.

Step 4: Shape the Fluffy Ricotta Balls

Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, gently form the mixture into small, uniform balls. Place them directly into a baking dish. Keeping them similar in size helps them bake evenly and ensures a lovely, tender finish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, just until the fluffy ricotta balls are lightly golden on top. This brief bake both sets their shape and intensifies their flavor—watch as they puff ever so slightly in the heat, a true sign you’re on the right track.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Take your fluffy ricotta out of the oven and admire those golden tops. Finish with a drizzle of marinara sauce or warm, melted butter right before serving, and don’t forget a scattering of fresh basil. The aroma will make it impossible to wait!

How to Serve fluffy ricotta

Garnishes

A beautiful sprinkle of fresh basil is a must, not just for color but for that unmistakable aroma. For a next-level finish, add some lemon zest, extra grated Parmesan, or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil right before serving—each one gives a little extra flair and a burst of flavor that complements fluffy ricotta perfectly.

Side Dishes

Fluffy ricotta feels right at home alongside crusty garlic bread, a simple green salad with a punchy vinaigrette, or roasted veggies like asparagus and cherry tomatoes. If you’re hosting, consider pairing with a bowl of your favorite tomato soup or a citrusy, olive-studded pasta salad for a colorful spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be afraid to play with presentation! Try serving fluffy ricotta on a bed of roasted tomato sauce, or atop grilled sourdough for a rustic appetizer. For brunch, nestle them next to poached eggs and a handful of arugula, or even skewer them with roasted peppers for a fun party bite. There’s truly no wrong way to let them shine.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra fluffy ricotta, you’re in luck—they store surprisingly well. Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to three days. Enjoy cold, or bring them back to life with a quick reheat.

Freezing

Fluffy ricotta is freezer-friendly! Arrange cooled balls on a tray to freeze solid before transferring to a zip-top bag or container; they’ll keep for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and you’ll have a delicious, nearly-instant meal or snack.

Reheating

To revive that just-baked texture, place your fluffy ricotta in a baking dish, cover loosely with foil, and warm in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes. Alternatively, give them a zap in the microwave for 30–60 seconds (though the oven is best for keeping the outsides slightly crisp).

FAQs

Can I use part-skim ricotta for this recipe?

You can, but for truly fluffy ricotta, whole-milk ricotta is best. It gives the finished dish superior creaminess and richness, whereas part-skim may make them a bit less tender.

What’s the best way to avoid the mixture being too wet?

If your ricotta seems watery, strain it in a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth for an hour or so before mixing. This ensures your fluffy ricotta holds its shape and bakes up light instead of soggy.

Can I add other herbs or spices?

Definitely! While basil is classic, fresh parsley, chives, or even a pinch of chili flakes can add a fresh twist. Adapt the herbs to match the rest of your meal or your mood that day for a new spin on fluffy ricotta.

What sauces pair best with fluffy ricotta?

A simple marinara or brown butter and sage are both classic options, but don’t be afraid to try creamy pesto or a bright, lemony herb sauce. Each brings out the unique flavor and delicate texture of the fluffy ricotta.

Is fluffy ricotta gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as written! Just double-check your labels (especially for cheese) if you have strict dietary needs, and enjoy worry-free.

Final Thoughts

Fluffy ricotta is one of those effortless recipes that delivers big impact with minimal fuss. It’s creamy, savory, and destined to become a staple whenever you need comfort in a bowl. I can’t wait for you to experience just how magical simple ingredients can be—go on, give fluffy ricotta a try and let it steal the spotlight at your next meal!

fluffy ricotta Recipe

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4.9 from 20 reviews

Fluffy Ricotta Gnudi is a delightful Italian dish that features light and airy ricotta dumplings baked to perfection. These gnudi are bursting with flavors of Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, and fresh basil, making them a savory treat for any occasion.

Author: Paula
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Cheese Mixture:

2 ounces Parmesan cheese, finely grated
16-ounce ricotta cheese
2 large eggs

Seasonings:

1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, ricotta, eggs, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix until smooth.
Form Balls: Using a tablespoon, form the ricotta mixture into small balls and place them in a baking dish.
Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes until lightly golden on top.
Serve: Serve with marinara sauce or melted butter. Garnish with fresh basil.