Before keto, I thought ricotta was only good for lasagna. And even then, mostly as filler. But it turns out, it’s one of the most underrated ingredients in a keto kitchen. It’s naturally low in carbs, high in protein, and incredibly creamy. Whether you’re making breakfast muffins, no-bake desserts, or actual lasagna (minus the noodles), ricotta pulls its weight.
Here are 14 keto ricotta recipes I’ve actually made and eaten. No weird swaps, no fake macros. Just good food that happens to be low carb.
Is Ricotta Cheese Keto?
Yes! Ricotta is keto-friendly in moderation. A standard 100g serving has around 3g net carbs, 0.3g sugar, and 11g protein. The texture is a bit grainier than cottage cheese, but way smoother than feta. It works in both sweet and savoury dishes, especially when you want something a bit fluffier or creamier than your usual cheese.
Tips for Cooking with Ricotta on Keto
- Use full-fat ricotta for best flavour and macros
- Drain it if it’s too watery, especially for baking
- Mix with eggs for extra fluffiness in pancakes and bakes
- Blend it for mousse, dips, or frosting-like textures
14 Keto Ricotta Recipes to Try
| Recipe | Nutritional Information (per serve) | Time |
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Prep time: 15 mins Cook time: 45 mins |
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Prep time: 45 mins | Cook time: 20 mins |
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Prep time: 30 mins | Cook time: 60 mins |
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Prep time: 20 mins | Cook time: 30 mins |
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Prep time: 25 mins | Cook time: 35 mins |
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Prep time: 10 mins | Cook time: 30 mins |
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Prep time: 5 mins | Cook time: 5 mins |
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Prep time: 35 mins | Cook time: 40 mins |
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Prep time: 30 mins | Cook time: 30 mins |
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Prep time: 20 mins | Cook time: 15 mins |
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Prep time: 10 mins | Cook time: 35 mins |
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Prep time: 10 mins | Cook time: 30 mins |
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Prep time: 10 mins | Rest time: 24 hours |
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Prep time: 10 mins | Cook time: 0 mins |
See also: Best Keto Cottage Cheese Recipes
1. Keto Ricotta Pancakes
Light, fluffy, and perfect for a weekend breakfast. These pancakes use almond flour, vanilla, and ricotta for unbeatable texture. Top with sugar-free jam or a handful of berries if you’re feeling fancy.
Per serve: 4g net carbs, 22g protein, 50g fat, 560 calories.
2. Keto Ricotta & Tomato Gnocchi
Craving pasta? These pillowy gnocchi are made from almond flour, egg, and ricotta—then topped with a rich tomato and olive sauce. Heavier on carbs, but worth it for a comfort meal.
Per serve: 18g net carbs, 48g protein, 83g fat, 820 calories.
3. Keto Moussaka with Zucchini and Mince
A low-carb spin on classic Greek comfort food. This layered moussaka uses zucchini instead of potato and features a creamy ricotta topping that pulls everything together.
Per serve: 9g net carbs, 45g protein, 19g fat, 410 calories.
4. Spinach Sausage Ricotta Casserole
This bake is loaded with sausage, greens, and a generous helping of ricotta. It’s rich, filling, and keeps well for leftovers—perfect for meal prep or a casual dinner.
Per serve: 5g net carbs, 57g protein, 28g fat, 510 calories.
5. Keto Ricotta Lasagna
This skillet lasagna skips the pasta but keeps all the comfort. Ricotta, cheddar, and mozzarella melt into a meaty tomato base for a one-pan dinner win.
Per serve: 12g net carbs, 49g protein, 22g fat, 450 calories.
6. Keto Egg Muffins with Sausage
Perfect for grab-and-go breakfasts. These muffins use sausage, ricotta, and herbs for a savoury, protein-packed snack that reheats well.
Per serve: 3g net carbs, 23g protein, 26g fat, 320 calories.
See also: Keto Queso Cheese Dip Recipes
7. Keto Noatmeal with Ricotta and Cinnamon
Skip the oats, keep the comfort. This warm, cinnamon-spiced bowl uses ricotta, butter, and chia to deliver a breakfast that feels indulgent.
Per serve: 8g net carbs, 10g protein, 24g fat, 270 calories.
8. Juicy Keto Ricotta Stuffed Chicken
This lemony, herby chicken is stuffed with a creamy ricotta-mozzarella filling. Fancy enough for guests, easy enough for weeknight dinner.
Per serve: 2g net carbs, 51g protein, 25g fat, 390 calories.
9. Fluffy Keto Ricotta Brownies
Dense, chocolatey, and just a little bit fudgy—ricotta makes these brownies stay moist and rich. Optional but encouraged: chopped nuts.
Per serve: 7g net carbs, 11g protein, 34g fat, 390 calories.
10. Soft Keto Ricotta Cookies
Soft and chewy, these cookies are a kid-friendly win. Ricotta adds creaminess, while almond flour and coconut oil keep things keto.
Per serve (3 cookies): 3g net carbs, 12g protein, 31g fat, 350 calories.
11. No Fuss Keto Ricotta Cake
This cake is a keeper. Lightly sweet, subtly coconutty, and high in protein—have a slice with coffee or as an anytime snack.
Per serve (2 pieces): 8g net carbs, 17g protein, 29g fat, 370 calories.
See also: Keto Cream Cheese Fat Bombs
12. Keto Frittata with Bacon and Ricotta
A quick, satisfying frittata loaded with smoky bacon and dollops of creamy ricotta. Great for meal prep or weekend brunch.
Per serve: 3g net carbs, 8g protein, 8g fat, 122 calories.
13. No-Bake Keto Ricotta Pecan Cheesecake
No oven needed here. This chilled cheesecake uses ricotta, sweetener, and gelatine—topped with pecans and strawberries. Chill overnight for best results.
Per serve: 6g net carbs, 22g protein, 14g fat, 240 calories.
14. Keto Ricotta Chocolate Mousse
Got 5 minutes and a spoon? This mousse blends ricotta, cocoa, vanilla, and sweetener into a quick, creamy dessert. Chill or eat it straight away.
Per serve: 4g net carbs, 10g protein, 13g fat, 170 calories.
See also: Best Keto Bread Recipes
How to Use Up Ricotta (Without Wasting a Spoonful)
Let’s be real: Ricotta tubs are rarely small. If you’ve got leftovers after trying a recipe or two, here are a few no-recipe-needed ideas to use it up:
- Mix with cinnamon and sweetener for an instant dessert
- Stir into scrambled eggs or omelettes for a fluffier finish
- Layer into a savoury bake or keto lasagna
- Add to smoothies or protein bowls for extra creaminess
Ricotta’s not just for baking. It’s a fridge staple that works across breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert. And when you use it well, it doesn’t taste like “diet food.” It just tastes good.