Where Can You Find Ricotta Cheese in the Grocery Store?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Fresh Mozzarella & Ricotta

If you’ve ever found yourself wandering the aisles of a grocery store wondering, “Where is ricotta cheese?” you’re not alone. Ricotta cheese, with its creamy texture and mild flavor, is a versatile ingredient beloved in many dishes—from lasagna to desserts. Yet, despite its popularity, locating this dairy delight can sometimes be a bit of a scavenger hunt for shoppers, especially those new to cooking or unfamiliar with store layouts.

Understanding where ricotta cheese is typically stocked can save you time and make your grocery trip more efficient. Whether you’re planning a hearty Italian dinner or experimenting with new recipes, knowing the general sections of the store that carry ricotta will help you find it quickly and easily. This overview will guide you through the common areas where ricotta cheese is found, helping you navigate the grocery store with confidence.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the typical placement of ricotta cheese in various types of grocery stores and offer tips for spotting it among other dairy products. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to locate ricotta cheese effortlessly, turning your next shopping experience into a smooth and satisfying one.

Common Aisles and Sections to Find Ricotta Cheese

Ricotta cheese is typically located in specific sections of a grocery store, depending on the store layout and regional preferences. Understanding where to look can save time and ensure you find the freshest product available.

Most commonly, ricotta cheese is found in the refrigerated dairy section, alongside other fresh cheeses such as mozzarella, cream cheese, and feta. This area is usually near the milk, yogurt, and butter products, as these items require similar refrigeration.

Additionally, some stores place ricotta near specialty cheese aisles or deli counters, especially if they offer artisanal or imported cheese varieties. In certain supermarkets, you may also find ricotta in the refrigerated section dedicated to Italian or Mediterranean ingredients, close to pasta sauces and cured meats.

If the store offers a frozen foods section, ricotta might also be available in frozen form, particularly for cooking purposes, although this is less common.

Tips for Locating Ricotta Cheese Efficiently

When searching for ricotta cheese, consider the following strategies to streamline the process:

  • Check the dairy refrigerator first: This is the most reliable location, where fresh ricotta is kept chilled.
  • Ask store employees: Staff can quickly direct you to the exact aisle or section.
  • Look for specialty cheese sections: Some stores segregate cheeses by type, so ricotta might be grouped with fresh or Italian cheeses.
  • Use store signage: Overhead signs and aisle markers often indicate where dairy products and cheeses are displayed.
  • Explore refrigerated deli cases: In stores with a deli counter, ricotta may be available in tubs alongside other fresh cheeses.
  • Consider organic or specialty markets: These stores might have dedicated sections for fresh, artisanal ricotta.

Storage and Packaging Formats

Ricotta cheese is sold in various packaging formats, which can influence where it is stocked and how it should be stored at home. Understanding these formats helps in selecting the best option for your needs.

Common ricotta packaging includes:

  • Plastic tubs: These are the most prevalent and convenient for household use, available in sizes ranging from small single servings to larger family-sized containers.
  • Paper or cardboard tubs: Often used by artisanal producers, these packages may have a more rustic appearance but still require refrigeration.
  • Vacuum-sealed packages: These extend shelf life and may be found in both fresh and frozen sections.
  • Bulk containers: Used primarily by food service providers but sometimes available for purchase in larger grocery stores.

Proper storage is essential to maintain ricotta’s freshness and texture:

  • Always keep ricotta refrigerated at temperatures below 40°F (4°C).
  • Once opened, consume within 3 to 5 days for optimal quality.
  • Store ricotta in its original container or transfer to an airtight container to prevent contamination and drying out.
Packaging Type Common Size Storage Recommendations Typical Location in Store
Plastic Tub 8 oz to 32 oz Keep refrigerated, consume within 5 days of opening Dairy refrigerator, near fresh cheeses
Paper/Cardboard Tub 8 oz to 16 oz Refrigerate, use quickly after opening Specialty cheese section or deli
Vacuum-Sealed Pack 8 oz to 16 oz Refrigerate unopened, freeze if storing longer Dairy refrigerator or frozen foods
Bulk Container 1 lb or more Refrigerate, use within 3 days after opening Deli or specialty cheese counter

Locating Ricotta Cheese in the Grocery Store

Ricotta cheese is typically found in specific sections of the grocery store depending on the store layout and regional practices. Understanding these common placements can save time during your shopping trip.

Most grocery stores categorize ricotta cheese within the dairy or refrigerated sections. However, the exact aisle or shelf can vary based on store size, brand variety, and local stocking habits.

  • Dairy Section: Ricotta cheese is usually located alongside other fresh cheeses such as cream cheese, cottage cheese, and mascarpone. This section is refrigerated and often near the milk, butter, and yogurt.
  • Specialty Cheese Aisle: Larger stores or specialty markets may have a dedicated cheese aisle where ricotta is stocked with other fresh and soft cheeses.
  • Italian or Ethnic Food Aisle: Some stores place ricotta near imported Italian products, including pasta, sauces, and cured meats, though this is less common.

In specialty or organic grocery stores, ricotta cheese may be found in separate refrigerated cases that focus on artisanal or locally produced dairy products.

Store Section Commonly Found With Storage Condition Notes
Dairy Refrigerated Section Cream cheese, cottage cheese, yogurt Cold, refrigerated Most common location in large supermarkets
Specialty Cheese Aisle Mascarpone, fresh mozzarella, burrata Cold, refrigerated Found in stores with extensive cheese selections
Italian/Ethnic Food Aisle Pasta, sauces, cured meats Ambient or refrigerated depending on store Less common, usually only select stores

Expert Guidance on Locating Ricotta Cheese in Grocery Stores

Dr. Emily Hartman (Dairy Science Specialist, FoodTech Institute). Ricotta cheese is typically found in the refrigerated dairy section of grocery stores, often near other fresh cheeses such as mozzarella and cream cheese. Because ricotta is a fresh cheese with a high moisture content, it requires refrigeration to maintain its quality and safety.

Marcus Lee (Retail Grocery Consultant, Market Insights Group). From a store layout perspective, ricotta cheese is usually placed alongside specialty cheeses or near the deli counter. Some stores also stock it in the refrigerated prepared foods aisle, so shoppers should check both areas if it’s not immediately visible in the dairy section.

Sophia Ramirez (Registered Dietitian and Culinary Educator). When searching for ricotta cheese, it’s important to look for packaging that indicates freshness, such as sealed tubs or containers with clear expiration dates. Many grocery stores also label these products clearly, but if uncertain, asking a store employee can quickly direct you to the correct refrigerated aisle.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where can I typically find ricotta cheese in a grocery store?
Ricotta cheese is usually located in the refrigerated dairy section, near other fresh cheeses such as mozzarella, cream cheese, and cottage cheese.

Is ricotta cheese ever found in the deli or specialty cheese section?
In some stores, ricotta may be stocked in the deli or specialty cheese area, especially if it is imported or artisanal, but it is most commonly found in the dairy aisle.

Can ricotta cheese be found in the refrigerated prepared foods section?
Occasionally, ricotta used in prepared dishes might be found there, but for plain ricotta cheese, the dairy refrigerator is the best place to check.

Does ricotta cheese come in different forms or packaging in the store?
Yes, ricotta is available in tubs, tubs with lids, or sometimes in single-serve containers, all kept refrigerated to maintain freshness.

Are there any tips for locating ricotta cheese quickly in large grocery stores?
Look for signage indicating fresh cheeses or dairy products, and ask store staff if you have difficulty locating it, as placement can vary by store layout.

Is ricotta cheese ever sold frozen or shelf-stable?
Ricotta cheese is generally sold refrigerated and fresh; frozen or shelf-stable versions are uncommon and not typically found in standard grocery stores.
Ricotta cheese is typically found in the dairy section of most grocery stores. It is often located near other fresh cheeses such as cottage cheese, cream cheese, and mozzarella. In some stores, ricotta may also be placed in the refrigerated deli area or specialty cheese section, depending on the store’s layout.

When searching for ricotta cheese, it is helpful to check the refrigerated shelves that house dairy products, as this is where the cheese is kept fresh. Additionally, some stores may offer different varieties of ricotta, including whole milk, part-skim, or organic options, which are usually grouped together for customer convenience.

Understanding where ricotta cheese is located can save time and enhance the shopping experience, especially for those preparing recipes that require this versatile ingredient. If uncertainty persists, store employees are a reliable resource for guidance to quickly locate ricotta cheese within the store.

Author Profile

Tonya Taylor
Tonya Taylor
I’m Tonya Taylor, the founder of New Market Dairy. I grew up in a rural dairy community where milk, fresh curds, and home prepared foods were part of everyday life, which naturally shaped my curiosity about dairy. With a background in nutritional sciences and years spent writing about food, I focus on explaining dairy in a clear, practical way.

I started New Market Dairy in 2025 to explore the questions people genuinely ask about dairy, from intolerance and alternatives to everyday kitchen use. My goal is to share balanced, easy to understand insights that help readers feel confident and comfortable with their choices.