What is a good substitute for ricotta cheese?

Good substitutes for ricotta cheese include: Cottage Cheese, blended smooth, Firm Tofu, crumbled, Mascarpone, Cashew Ricotta (soaked cashews + lemon + herbs). Blend full-fat cottage cheese until completely smooth to replicate ricotta's creamy texture. It's slightly tangier and higher in protein. Works in lasagna, stuffed shells, cheesecake, and pancakes.

Best Ricotta Cheese Substitutes

Out of ricotta cheese? These are the best ricotta cheese substitutes you can use in cooking and baking — ranked by how well they work in most recipes. Whether you need a dairy-free swap, a pantry staple alternative, or just ran out mid-recipe, one of these 4 options will have you covered.

Cottage Cheese, blended smoothFirm Tofu, crumbledMascarponeCashew Ricotta (soaked cashews + lemon + herbs)

Cottage Cheese, blended smooth

Use instead of Ricotta Cheese

Blend full-fat cottage cheese until completely smooth to replicate ricotta's creamy texture. It's slightly tangier and higher in protein. Works in lasagna, stuffed shells, cheesecake, and pancakes.

Ratio: 1:1Best for: lasagna, stuffed shells, cheesecake, pancakes

Firm Tofu, crumbled

Use instead of Ricotta Cheese

Press and crumble firm tofu to mimic ricotta's grainy texture. Season with lemon juice, nutritional yeast, and salt for a convincing dairy-free version. Best in lasagna, stuffed pasta, and savory galettes.

Ratio: 1:1Best for: lasagna, stuffed pasta, savory galettes

Mascarpone

Use instead of Ricotta Cheese

Mascarpone is richer and creamier than ricotta — use it when you want a more indulgent result. It works in cheesecakes, creamy pasta sauces, and desserts. Thin slightly with milk if needed.

Ratio: 1:1Best for: cheesecakes, creamy pasta sauces, desserts

Cashew Ricotta (soaked cashews + lemon + herbs)

Use instead of Ricotta Cheese

Soak 1 cup cashews, blend with 2 tbsp lemon juice, 2 tbsp nutritional yeast, and salt until slightly grainy. It's creamy with a tangy flavor that works beautifully in stuffed pasta, pizza, and toast toppings.

Ratio: 1:1Best for: stuffed pasta, pizza, toast toppings

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best substitute for ricotta cheese?

The best substitutes for ricotta cheese are Cottage Cheese, blended smooth, Firm Tofu, crumbled, Mascarpone. Blend full-fat cottage cheese until completely smooth to replicate ricotta's creamy texture. It's slightly tangier and higher in protein. Works in lasagna, stuffed shells, cheesecake, and pancakes.

Can I use Firm Tofu, crumbled instead of ricotta cheese?

How do I substitute ricotta cheese in baking?

When substituting ricotta cheese in baking, it's important to match the ratio carefully. Check the individual substitution notes above for exact measurements and tips for each swap.