Go Back
A bowl of homemade ricotta cheese with fresh herbs

Homemade Ricotta Cheese

A creamy and fresh homemade ricotta cheese that's easy to prepare and perfect for both savory and sweet dishes.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Cheese, Condiment
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 108
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 cups whole milk Provides a luscious, creamy base that is essential for ricotta.
  • 1 cup buttermilk Adds a slightly tangy flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
  • 1 tsp salt Brings out the natural flavors of the milk.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Combine whole milk and buttermilk in a large pot (at least a 5-quart pot).
  2. Place the pot over medium-high heat, stirring constantly to prevent scorching.
  3. Once the mixture reaches a gentle boil, reduce the heat to low and stop stirring. Let it cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes.
  4. Remove the pot from heat and cover it. Allow it to stand for 10 minutes.
Draining and Storing
  1. Line a colander with several layers of cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel.
  2. Pour the curds into the lined colander and let them drain for about 1 minute. Drain longer for drier ricotta.
  3. Transfer the ricotta to an airtight container and refrigerate. It can be kept fresh for up to 5 days.

Notes

Using a kitchen thermometer can help ensure the milk doesn’t exceed 200°F before reducing the heat. Feel free to experiment with seasonings or herbs to flavor the ricotta.