Ravioli Sauce is a rich and flavorful addition that perfectly complements the tender, stuffed pasta. Whether you’re working with cheese ravioli, spinach, or meat-filled varieties, this sauce enhances the dish with its creamy texture and bold, savory notes.
Made with simple ingredients, it’s quick to prepare and elevates ravioli into a restaurant-quality meal.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Whisk
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients Overview
- Butter: Adds richness and forms the base of the sauce.
- Garlic: Infuses the sauce with aromatic, savory flavor.
- Heavy cream: Creates a luscious, creamy texture.
- Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for a nutty, salty flavor.
- Tomato paste (optional): Adds a tangy depth of flavor and a touch of color.
- Herbs: Basil, thyme, or parsley enhance the sauce with fresh or dried herbaceous notes.
- Salt and pepper: Brings out the flavors of the other ingredients.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil or thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Directions
- Melt the butter:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant. - Add the cream:
Pour in the heavy cream, whisking continuously to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer. - Incorporate the cheese:
Stir in the Parmesan cheese, whisking until it melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy. - Enhance the flavor:
If using, whisk in the tomato paste for a hint of tanginess. Add the dried basil or thyme and stir to combine. - Season the sauce:
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. - Combine with ravioli:
Toss cooked ravioli gently in the sauce until coated. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs for garnish.
Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
15 minutes
Nutrition (per serving, serves 4)
- Calories: 200
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
Expert Tips
- Consistency: For a thinner sauce, add a splash of pasta cooking water. For a thicker sauce, simmer a few minutes longer.
- Cheese alternative: Pecorino Romano works well as a substitute for Parmesan.
- Extra flavor: Add a splash of white wine or lemon juice for a bright, tangy twist.
FAQs
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if needed.
What if I want a tomato-based sauce?
You can skip the cream and increase the tomato paste to 1/4 cup, thinning it out with a bit of vegetable or chicken broth.
Does this sauce pair with other pasta?
Absolutely! This sauce is versatile and works wonderfully with fettuccine, tortellini, or even gnocchi.
Storing & Reheating
Storing: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring frequently. Add a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.
Substitutions & Variations
- Dairy-free: Use coconut cream and vegan Parmesan for a plant-based option.
- Spicy twist: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or a dash of cayenne for more heat.
- Herb-forward: Incorporate fresh basil, parsley, or oregano for a vibrant flavor profile.
Ravioli Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- **Melt the butter**:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant.
- **Add the cream**:
- Pour in the heavy cream, whisking continuously to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- **Incorporate the cheese**:
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, whisking until it melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- **Enhance the flavor**:
- If using, whisk in the tomato paste for a hint of tanginess. Add the dried basil or thyme and stir to combine.
- **Season the sauce**:
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- **Combine with ravioli**:
- Toss cooked ravioli gently in the sauce until coated. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs for garnish.
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