Are you grappling with a culinary puzzle, searching high and low for the perfect ricotta substitute? I just wanted to let you know that your quest ends here. In this article, we'll demystify your culinary dilemma by introducing you to a selection of top-quality ricotta substitutes.
What Does Ricotta Taste Like?
Below, you will find the ideal substitute for Ricotta cheese, an Italian classic made from whey, a byproduct of cheese production. It boasts a soft, crumbly texture and a mild, sweet, and tangy flavor profile. Unlike many other cheeses, ricotta is not aged and is usually consumed fresh.
Ricotta offers a light, fluffy texture and a pleasantly mild flavor, making it a versatile option in various savory dishes—from lasagna to sweet desserts.
6 Reasons Why You Would Look for a Ricotta Cheese Substitute
You may need to find an alternative to ricotta cheese in various scenarios. Whether the reason is dietary, based on availability, or personal taste, we've got you covered. Below are six common reasons you might be looking for a substitute for ricotta.
- Dietary Restrictions: Those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance may require non-dairy alternatives to ricotta to avoid digestive issues or allergic reactions.
- Availability: Ricotta cheese may not be readily available in some areas, necessitating the search for a more accessible alternative.
- Cost: Depending on the brand and quality, ricotta can sometimes be pricier, leading some to seek budget-friendly substitutes.
- Flavour Preferences: Ricotta's taste profile may not appeal to everyone, prompting the need for a different cheese or alternative ingredient.
- Texture Variation: For particular recipes, you may desire a substitute with a different texture or consistency than ricotta cheese provides.
- Vegan or Plant-Based Diet: Individuals following a vegan or plant-based diet need non-dairy alternatives to replace ricotta in their recipes.
The Best Dairy Ricotta Cheese Substitutes
Each alternative is thoughtfully chosen for its distinctive qualities, ensuring your recipes have enough texture and taste. Whether you're making lasagna, desserts, or dips, these substitutes are up to the task.
1. Cottage Cheese
Why it works: Cottage cheese is often considered the closest substitute for ricotta due to its similar texture and mild, tangy taste. It works well in both sweet and savory recipes.
Example dishes: Ideal for lasagna, cheesecakes, and stuffed pasta.
Measurement: Substitute in equal amounts by weight or volume for a consistent outcome.
2. Cream Cheese
Why it works: Cream cheese offers a creamy and rich texture, although its taste is tangier than ricotta. It works well in sweet recipes and spreads.
Example dishes: Cheesecakes, dips, and spreads.
Measurement: Use cream cheese in equal amounts by weight or volume for a similar texture.
3. Mascarpone
Why it works: Mascarpone is creamier and more decadent than ricotta but has a similar smooth texture. It is ideal for desserts.
Example dishes: Tiramisu, desserts, and creamy sauces.
Measurement: Substitute in equal amounts by weight or volume to maintain richness.
4. Paneer
Why it works: Paneer is an Indian cheese with a crumbly texture that resembles ricotta but without the tanginess. It's suitable for savory dishes.
Example dishes: Curries, stuffed pasta, and salads.
Measurement: Use equal amounts by weight or volume for a textured result.
5. Quark
Why it works: Quark is a European fresh cheese with a more liquid consistency than ricotta but offers a similar tangy taste.
Example dishes: Baked goods, spreads, and dips.
Measurement: Use equal amounts by weight or volume for similar taste, albeit with a softer texture.
6. Greek Yogurt
Why it works: Greek yogurt can be a lighter alternative to ricotta and offers a tangy, rich flavor.
Example dishes: Desserts, dips, and spreads.
Measurement: Substitute in equal amounts by weight or volume for a slightly tangier and lighter option.
7. Clabber Cream
Why it works: Clabber cream has a similar consistency to ricotta and offers a unique tangy taste. It works well in savory recipes.
Example dishes: Biscuits, quick breads, and baked goods.
Measurement: Use equal amounts by weight or volume for a similar consistency.
8. Kefir Cheese
Why it works: Kefir cheese, or kefir "cheese," is made from cultured kefir and offers a tangy flavor and smooth consistency, albeit less firm than ricotta.
Example dishes: Spreads, dips, and baked goods.
Measurement: Substitute in equal amounts by weight or volume for a tangier alternative.
9. Queso Fresco or Queso Blanco
Why it works: These Mexican cheeses have a crumbly texture and a mild flavor, making them suitable substitutes for ricotta in certain dishes.
Example dishes: Enchiladas, tacos, and stuffed pasta.
Measurement: Use equal amounts of queso fresco by weight or volume for a consistent outcome.
10. Sour Cream
Why it works: Sour cream is creamier and tangier but can replace ricotta in dips and dressings.
Example dishes: Dips, spreads, and certain baked goods.
Measurement: Use sour cream in equal amounts by weight or volume for a creamy and tangy replacement.
11. Fresh Goat's Cheese
Why it works: Goat cheese is tangier and slightly crumbly, making it a good substitute in dishes requiring a solid flavor profile. Aged goat cheese makes a viable option, too.
Example dishes: Salads, stuffed pasta, and quiches.
Measurement: Substitute in equal amounts by weight or volume for a tangier, crumbly texture.
12. Fromage Blanc
Why it works: This French cheese is soft, creamy, and can be a bit tangier than ricotta.
Example dishes: Desserts, dips, and salads.
Measurement: Use fromage blanc in equal amounts by weight or volume for a similar texture.
13. Buttermilk Cheese
Why it works: This cheese is made from buttermilk and has a tangy flavor and crumbly texture.
Example dishes: Baked goods, spreads, and quick breads.
Measurement: Use buttermilk cheese in equal amounts by weight or volume for a similar consistency.
14. Pot Cheese
Why it works: Pot cheese is a soft, farmer-style cheese similar to ricotta in taste and texture.
Example dishes: Baked goods, lasagna, and stuffed pasta.
Measurement: Use pot cheese in equal amounts by weight or volume for a consistent outcome.
15. Crème Fraîche
Why it works: Creamy and less tangy than sour cream, creme fraiche works well in recipes requiring a smooth texture.
Example dishes: Sauces, desserts, and dips.
Measurement: Use equal amounts by weight or volume for a smooth, creamy alternative.
16. Requeson
Why it works: This Mexican cheese is similar to ricotta but slightly less creamy.
Example dishes: Enchiladas, tacos, and stuffed pasta.
Measurement: Use equal amounts by weight or volume for a less creamy but similar texture.
17. Brousse
Why it works: A French cheese similar to ricotta but with a slightly sweeter taste.
Example dishes: Desserts, tarts, and spreads.
Measurement: Substitute in equal amounts by weight or volume for a similar but sweeter alternative.
18. Mozzarella
Why it works: Mozzarella offers a different texture but can be used for its meltability.
Example dishes: Lasagna, pizzas, and casseroles.
Measurement: Use equal amounts by weight or volume for a meltier alternative.
19. Béchamel Sauce
Why it works: Not a cheese, but béchamel sauce can replace ricotta in layered dishes like lasagna for a creamy texture.
Example dishes: Lasagna, moussaka, and pasta bakes.
Measurement: Adjust quantity as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
20. Parmesan
Why it works: Parmesan has a much stronger flavor but can be used sparingly with other cheeses.
Example dishes: Pasta dishes, casseroles, and gratins.
Measurement: Use sparingly due to its strong flavor.
21. Feta
Why it works: Feta is crumbly and tangy, making it a good substitute in salads and stuffed dishes.
Example dishes: Salads, stuffed pasta, and Mediterranean dishes.
Measurement: Use equal amounts by weight or volume for a tangier and crumbly texture.
22. Labneh
Why it works: Labneh is a Middle Eastern cheese made from strained yogurt. It is creamier and tangier than ricotta.
Example dishes: Dips, spreads, and Mediterranean-style dishes.
Measurement: Use equal amounts by weight or volume for a creamier and tangier alternative.
The Best Vegan Substitute for Ricotta Cheese
Searching for the perfect vegan substitute for ricotta cheese? Please don't worry about anything else. Our concise list of "The Best Vegan Alternatives for Ricotta Cheese" offers equally creamy and delicious options, complete with suggested uses and measurements.
23. Silken Tofu
Why it works: When blended, silken tofu has a texture similar to ricotta.
Example dishes: Vegan lasagna, smoothies, and desserts.
Measurement: Substitute in equal amounts by weight or volume.
24. Cashew Cheese
Why it works: Blended cashews offer a cheese-like texture and can be seasoned to mimic ricotta. Try my cashew ricotta!
Example dishes: Vegan cheesecakes, dips, and pasta fillings.
Measurement: Substitute in equal amounts by weight or volume.
25. Almond Ricotta
Why it works: Made from almonds, this substitute mimics the grainy texture of ricotta.
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Example dishes: Vegan stuffed pasta, lasagna, and desserts.
Measurement: Use in equal amounts by weight or volume.
26. Vegan Cream Cheese
Why it works: Vegan cream cheese provides a smooth texture.
Example dishes: Vegan cheesecakes, dips, and spreads.
Measurement: Use in equal amounts by weight or volume.
27. Coconut Cream
Why it works: Coconut cream is a dairy-free option. It offers a creamy texture but will impart a coconut flavor.
Example dishes: Vegan desserts and curries.
Measurement: Substitute in equal amounts by weight or volume.
28. Vegan Cottage Cheese
Why it works: Offers a texture similar to ricotta.
Example dishes: Vegan lasagna, cheesecakes, and stuffed pasta.
Measurement: Substitute in equal amounts by weight or volume.
29. Vegan Yogurt
Why it works: Use unsweetened and unflavoured vegan yogurt for a tangier option.
Example dishes: Vegan dips, desserts, and spreads.
Measurement: Substitute in equal amounts by weight or volume.
30. Vegan Queso
Why it works: Generally creamier but vegan queso can mimic the texture in certain dishes.
Example dishes: Vegan enchiladas, tacos, and casseroles.
Measurement: Use in equal amounts by weight or volume.
31. Avocado
Why it works: Avocado offers a creamy, fatty alternative to ricotta, though not similar in flavor.
Example dishes: Vegan dips and spreads.
Measurement: Substitute in equal amounts by weight but adjust to personal taste.
32. Macadamia Nuts
Why it works: When macadamias are soaked and blended, provide a texture similar to ricotta.
Example dishes: Vegan lasagna, desserts, and spreads.
Measurement: Use in equal amounts by weight or volume.
33. Cauliflower Purée
Why it works: When seasoned and blended, it offers a neutral-tasting and textured alternative.
Example dishes: Vegan lasagna and casseroles.
Measurement: Substitute in equal amounts by weight or volume, depending on desired consistency.
34. White Bean Purée
Why it works: White bean puree mimics the texture of ricotta when blended.
Example dishes: Vegan stuffed pasta and spreads.
Measurement: Substitute in equal amounts by weight or volume.
Common Culinary Uses of Ricotta Cheese
Ricotta cheese is widely used in sweet and savory dishes, especially in Italian cuisine. Here is a list of different applications and which cheeses you can use instead.
Lasagna
Ricotta is layered with pasta and meat sauce in this iconic Italian dish. It is often paired with mozzarella cheese.
Best Substitute for Ricotta Cheese: Cottage cheese, béchamel sauce, pot cheese, silken tofu
Cannelloni
Tubes of pasta are stuffed with a ricotta mixture and baked in sauce.
Best Substitute for Ricotta Cheese: Cottage cheese, paneer, mascarpone, pot cheese
Ravioli
Small pasta pockets filled with ricotta and other ingredients like spinach or meat.
Best Substitute for Ricotta Cheese: Mascarpone, paneer, cottage cheese, mozzarella cheese
Cheesecake
Ricotta sometimes serves as the base cheese for a lighter, Italian-style cheesecake.
Best Substitute for Ricotta Cheese: Cream cheese, mascarpone, plain Greek yogurt
Calzones
These folded-over pizzas often contain ricotta mixed with other cheeses and fillings.
Best Substitute for Ricotta Cheese: Mozzarella, cottage cheese, queso fresco
Tiramisu
Some versions combine layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers with a ricotta mixture.
Best Substitute for Ricotta Cheese: Mascarpone, cream cheese, Greek yogurt
Manicotti
Crepes or pasta tubes filled with ricotta and baked with sauce.
Best Substitute for Ricotta Cheese: Cottage cheese, béchamel sauce, queso blanco
Gnocchi
Soft Italian dumplings are sometimes made with a ricotta base.
Ricotta Cheese Substitutes: Potato, quark, cottage cheese
Tortellini
These small, ring-shaped pasta pockets often feature a ricotta-based filling.
Ricotta Cheese Substitutes: Parmesan, mascarpone, cottage cheese
Ziti
A baked pasta dish where a ricotta mixture is often layered with pasta and sauce.
Ricotta Cheese Substitutes: Cottage cheese, mozzarella, béchamel sauce
Stuffed Shells
Jumbo pasta shells filled with a ricotta mixture and baked in tomato sauce.
Ricotta Cheese Substitutes: Cottage cheese, mascarpone, silken tofu
Fritters
Ricotta is used in the batter for either sweet or savory fritters.
Ricotta Cheese Substitutes: Cottage cheese, quark, Greek yogurt
Pancakes
Ricotta pancakes are fluffier and richer than regular versions.
Ricotta Cheese Substitute: Buttermilk cheese, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese
Muffins and Scones
Ricotta moistens the dough in these baked goods.
Ricotta Cheese Substitute: Buttermilk cheese, sour cream, Greek yogurt
Crostini
Grilled or toasted bread is topped with ricotta and various other toppings.
Ricotta Cheese Substitute: Goat cheese, queso fresco, mascarpone
Ricotta Pie
A pie filled with a sweet or savory ricotta mixture.
Ricotta Cheese Substitute: Cottage cheese, quark, mascarpone
Savoury Tarts
Ricotta serves as the base for the tart filling.
Ricotta Cheese Substitute: Mature goat cheese, mascarpone, feta
Bruschetta
Toasted bread is topped with a spread of ricotta and other fresh ingredients.
Ricotta Cheese Substitute: Goat cheese, feta, queso fresco
Ricotta Dip
A creamy dip made from a ricotta base.
Ricotta Cheese Substitute: Sour cream, Greek yogurt, queso blanco
Smoothies
Ricotta adds a protein-rich, creamy element to smoothies.
Ricotta Substitute: Greek yogurt, silken tofu, almond milk
Stuffed Vegetables
Ricotta is used as a filling for vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
Ricotta Substitute: Fresh goat cheese, feta, queso fresco
Soufflé
Ricotta can be the base cheese for either sweet or savory soufflés.
Best Ricotta Cheese Substitutes: Swiss cheese, cheddar, cottage cheese
Ice Cream
Some artisan ice creams use ricotta for a unique creamy texture.
Best Ricotta Cheese Substitutes: Cream cheese, mascarpone, Greek yogurt
Salad Toppings
Ricotta is crumbled or dolloped onto salads.
Substitute for Ricotta Cheese: Feta, fresh goat cheese, queso fresco
Risotto
Ricotta is sometimes stirred into the dish for extra creaminess.
Substitute for Ricotta Cheese: Parmesan, mascarpone, cream cheese
Super Helpful Tips when using a ricotta cheese substitute
Here are some quick and practical insider tips if you want to substitute ricotta cheese:
- Drain the Substitute: If using a wetter alternative like cottage cheese, drain it first to prevent making your dish too soggy.
- Blend for Smoothness: For a smoother texture, blend cheese substitutes like tofu or cottage cheese before using them in recipes.
- Season to Taste: Ricotta is often relatively mild, so you may need to adjust seasoning when using a stronger-flavoured substitute.
- Add Fats for Richness: When using low-fat substitutes, consider adding a touch of cream or melted butter for richness.
- Mix and Match: Try combining two substitutes to mimic ricotta's complex taste and texture. For example, cottage cheese and Parmesan can be a good duo.
- Test Dairy-Free First: If using plant-based alternatives, do a small test batch first to ensure the substitute works well with the other ingredients in your recipe.
- Freeze for Later: Substitutes like tofu and cream cheese freeze well so that you can keep them on hand for future recipes.
- Nutritional Yeast for Flavor: A sprinkle of nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor when using plant-based substitutes.
- Straining Yoghurt: Strain Greek yogurt through a cheesecloth for a couple of hours to achieve a thicker consistency, closer to ricotta.
- Avoid Overcooking: Some substitutes, like cream cheese, can separate if cooked at high temperatures too long.
- Probiotic Boost: Opt for fermented options like kefir cheese for added probiotic benefits.
- Watch the Salt: Some cheese substitutes are saltier than ricotta, so you may need to reduce the salt in your recipe accordingly.
- Test Consistency: Different substitutes have varying water content. To ensure the final texture of your dish remains intact, you may need to adjust liquid quantities in your recipe.
- Spices and Herbs: Don't shy away from adding spices and herbs to flavour-neutral substitutes like tofu or queso fresco. A pinch of nutmeg or a sprinkle of basil can help bridge the flavor gap.
More Cheese Substitutes
If you found this article useful, here are my other helpful guides if you get stuck on finding alternatives for other types of cheese:
Tammy
I used mashed potatoes as a substitute in lasagna and it was delicious!
Donna
Originally I found this site because I wanted to know what pot cheese was. My mother, RIP, was Italian and I remember as a little girl in the 1950’s in New York, that she used to go to an Italian cheese market to get it. For years I did not know what it was until today. Thank you so much for the clarification and substitutes.