How to Make Whipped Ricotta (+ Other Whipped Cheese)
Make 5-minute whipped Ricotta dip (and use the same method for whipped feta dip, cottage cheese, and goat cheese!); a simple, creamy, 5 ingredient cheesy dip or spread perfect for the next game day, Potluck, or gathering!
Add all of the ingredients (apart from the toppings) to a food processor. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer or hand mixer - with a whisk attachment or regular beater.
Process until it’s creamy and smooth - the time will vary based on your particular machine. However, 1-2 minutes is usually more than enough.
When ready, give the whipped cheese a taste and adjust any of the seasonings to taste.
Transfer the whipped cheese to a serving bowl and top with a drizzle of chili honey and lemon thyme or the topping of your choice.
How to Make Ahead and Store
Make ahead: you can prepare the whipped cheese up to two days in advance. Add the toppings of your choice just before serving.Fridge: Store any leftover dip in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Just note that the toppings used may affect the shelf life (for example, fresh herbs are best enjoyed within a day).If it begins to separate slightly, just drain off the excess liquid and stir well before re-serving. It will also firm up somewhat when chilled.Freeze: you may be able to store the whipped cheese in the freezer for up to 2 months. However, it isn’t something I’ve tried, so I can’t guarantee there will be no textural changes. Also, the dip may dry out a little in the freezer. I recommend thawing it and adding it back to a food processor, adding a little cream if needed.
Notes
Recipe Notes & Variations
Use high-quality whole-milk cheese: this is the bulk of the dip, so make sure to use high-quality, whole cheese for the tastiest results. ‘Light’ cheese doesn’t whip as well and won’t be nearly as fluffy; however, it will still taste lovely.
Make sure the cheese is cold: I recommend only removing it from the refrigerator just before whipping. That way, more air will be incorporated into the cheese dip for fluffier results.
Experiment with toppings and add-ins: Based on which cheese you use, what’s in season, and what you’re in the mood for. This whipped ricotta recipe/method is super versatile!
Optional Add-ins & Variations: I like to keep the basic whipped cheese the same no matter which cheese I use and then swap out the toppings based on the cheese and what I have available.
Other herbs: Depending on which cheese you’re using, you can experiment with different herbs added into the whipped cheese or as a topping; oregano, chives, dill, thyme, sage, etc. Whipped feta dip works particularly well when blending dried herbs directly into the dip.
Pesto: A creamy soft cheese and pesto are a match made in heaven. I recommend an authentic Italian basil pesto for super delicious results!
Tomatoes: Tomatoes pair well with all of the cheeses; You can add sun-dried tomatoes directly into the whipped cheese dip. Roasted tomatoes or confit tomatoes with extra olive oil also make for a delicious topping.
Fresh fruit: Did I mention that whipped ricotta dip can also be enjoyed as a delicious dessert dip too? Top with some macerated strawberries and blueberries with vanilla and optionally a drizzle of honey or maple.
Grilled fruit: Particularly grilled peaches, blood orange, and watermelon (with whipped feta - yummy!) pieces work very well with any of the whipped cheese dips, especially when drizzled with honey or maple and some mint or basil.
Crushed nuts: Walnuts, for example, work well with whipped goat cheese and whipped ricotta. Pistachios also work well or pecans.
Roasted veg: Swap out which veggies and seasonings you use based on what’s in season; carrots, sprouts, beets, squash, etc.
Balsamic: vinegar/glaze - will pair well with the grilled fruits and roasted veggies.
Read the blog post for serving suggestions and other helpful info!