Easy Ravioli Sauce

This Easy Ravioli Sauce is a delightful and quick option for busy weeknights or special occasions. It combines rich flavors with simple ingredients, making it perfect for pairing with both refrigerated and frozen ravioli. The creamy sauce, enhanced by tomatoes and spices, creates a comforting meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This sauce comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a fast dinner.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of garlic, herbs, and cream results in a deliciously rich sauce that enhances any ravioli.
• Versatile Pairing: Perfect with various pasta types, from cheese-filled to vegetable ravioli, this sauce adapts easily to your preferences.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.
• Easily Customizable: Feel free to add vegetables or proteins like chicken or turkey to make it even heartier.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your easy ravioli sauce, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large high-walled skillet
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Whisk
• Silicone spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large high-walled skillet: This is essential for cooking the sauce evenly without splattering.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements ensure balanced flavors in your sauce.
• Whisk: Helps combine the ingredients smoothly, preventing lumps in the cream mixture.

Ingredients

To create this delicious easy ravioli sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Sauce

• 3 tablespoons salted butter (I use Land O’ Lakes)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• ½ teaspoon EACH: onion powder, dried basil, dried oregano, mustard powder
• ¾ cup chicken broth
• 1 ½ cups half and half (half light cream/half milk)
• 10 oz. Rotel tomatoes with green chilies (juices reserved)
• 3 tablespoons cream cheese (softened)
• 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)

For the Ravioli

• 20 oz. refrigerated ravioli
• 1 pinch Red Pepper Flakes (optional)

How to Make Easy Ravioli Sauce

Step 1: Prep Work

Measure out all ingredients prior to beginning.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic

Melt the butter in a large high-walled skillet over medium-low heat. Add the garlic and cook for 2 minutes, stirring continuously.

Step 3: Create Base Flour Mixture

Add the flour and cook for another 2 minutes. Next, add the tomato paste along with onion powder, basil, oregano, and mustard powder. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Add Liquids

Gradually add chicken broth in small splashes while stirring continuously. Follow this by adding half and half in the same manner until fully incorporated. Bring to a boil before reducing heat to low simmer.

Step 5: Combine Tomatoes

Add softened cream cheese and drained diced tomatoes into the mixture. (Pro Tip: Reserve some of the tomato juice if you’d like to thin out the sauce later.)

Step 6: Cook Ravioli

Cook ravioli according to package instructions; drain them once cooked.

Step 7: Finish Sauce

Reduce heat of the sauce to low. Gradually sprinkle in Parmesan cheese while stirring until fully combined. Add red pepper flakes if desired for extra heat.

Step 8: Combine Ravioli with Sauce

Gently stir in cooked ravioli using a silicone spatula until well coated with sauce. If needed, add reserved tomato juice for desired consistency before serving!

Enjoy your delicious Easy Ravioli Sauce!

How to Serve Easy Ravioli Sauce

Serve this Easy Ravioli Sauce over your favorite ravioli for a comforting meal. It pairs well with various sides and garnishes that enhance its creamy, flavorful profile.

With Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Chopped fresh basil adds a burst of flavor and a beautiful garnish.
• Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley for a hint of freshness and color.

With Grated Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan cheese on top enhances the dish’s richness.
• Mozzarella: Melted mozzarella can be added for a gooey texture and flavor contrast.

As Part of a Meal

• Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm garlic bread for dipping into the sauce.
• Salad: A simple side salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the ravioli sauce.

How to Perfect Easy Ravioli Sauce

Creating a perfect Easy Ravioli Sauce is all about technique and timing. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh minced garlic delivers more flavor than pre-minced options.
• Slowly Add Broth: Gradually adding chicken broth helps create a smooth and creamy consistency without lumps.
• Don’t Rush the Simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer helps deepen the flavors and thicken it properly.
• Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, use reserved tomato juice to achieve your desired consistency.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste your sauce before serving; adjust seasonings as needed for optimal flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Ravioli Sauce

Pairing your ravioli with complementary side dishes elevates the entire meal experience. Here are some great options.

1. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender add color and nutrition to your plate.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides crunch and balances the creaminess of the sauce.
3. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers crisp lettuce and tangy dressing that contrasts nicely with rich ravioli.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil make a refreshing side that enhances Italian flavors.
5. Grilled Zucchini: Seasoned grilled zucchini adds a smoky touch that complements the ravioli sauce perfectly.
6. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery garlic knots are perfect for dipping in any leftover sauce on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Ravioli Sauce, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Bold preparation: Not measuring your ingredients beforehand can lead to inconsistencies. Always prep your ingredients before starting.
• Bold temperature control: Cooking garlic too quickly can make it bitter. Sauté on medium-low heat for the best flavor.
• Bold flour clumps: Adding flour too fast can create lumps in your sauce. Gradually add flour and mix well to prevent clumping.
• Bold seasoning adjustment: Skipping the taste test before serving may leave your sauce bland. Always taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
• Bold overcooking ravioli: Leaving ravioli in boiling water too long leads to mushy pasta. Follow package instructions for perfect texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Easy Ravioli Sauce in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Easy Ravioli Sauce

• Freeze the sauce in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It lasts up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Easy Ravioli Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place sauce in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered with a microwave-safe lid, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over low heat while stirring frequently, adding a splash of broth or reserved tomato juice if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses some common questions regarding Easy Ravioli Sauce.

What is Easy Ravioli Sauce made of?

Easy Ravioli Sauce is made from butter, garlic, tomato paste, chicken broth, half and half, cream cheese, and seasonings. It’s rich and flavorful!

Can I customize my Easy Ravioli Sauce?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or use different cheeses based on your preference.

How do I thicken my Easy Ravioli Sauce?

If you desire a thicker sauce, simmer it longer or gradually add more grated Parmesan cheese until you achieve your desired consistency.

How do I pair Easy Ravioli Sauce with dishes?

This sauce goes great with various types of ravioli—choose from cheese, spinach, or meat-filled options for delightful combinations!

Final Thoughts

The Easy Ravioli Sauce is a delicious addition to any meal. Its creamy texture and flavorful profile make it versatile enough for various raviolis. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or add-ins for a personalized touch! Try this recipe today; you’ll love it!