Cooking Substitutions, Recalculated
Home / Cheese / Ricotta

What can I use instead of ricotta?

Best substitute for 1 cup ricotta
1 cup cottage cheese
Cottage cheese — Blend smooth for a closer texture.
cups
Amounts below are for 1 cup ricotta

5 substitutes for ricotta

SubstituteUse this muchNotes
Cottage cheese1 cup cottage cheeseBlend smooth for a closer texture.
Mascarpone1 cup mascarponeRicher and sweeter.
Cream cheese1 cup cream cheeseSoften and thin with a little milk.
Greek yogurt1 cup plain Greek yogurtLighter and tangier; good in dips.
Silken tofu1 cup blended silken tofuDairy-free; season well.

Ricotta is a soft, mild, slightly sweet fresh cheese. For lasagna, fillings and creamy dips these soft-cheese swaps work well.

Tips

  • For baking, blend cottage cheese until smooth to mimic ricotta.
  • Drain wet swaps so fillings don't get runny.

FAQ

Best ricotta substitute for lasagna?
Blended cottage cheese is the closest 1:1 for lasagna and stuffed pasta.
Can I use cream cheese instead of ricotta?
Yes, 1:1 - soften it and thin with a little milk for a spreadable texture.