This Easy Ravioli Sauce is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. With its rich creaminess and a hint of tomato flavor, this sauce enhances any ravioli dish effortlessly. It comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for family dinners, gatherings, or even a quick lunch. The combination of simple ingredients results in a flavorful sauce that pairs beautifully with both refrigerated and frozen ravioli options.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This sauce can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of cream, tomatoes, and spices creates a thick and satisfying sauce that elevates any dish.
- Versatile: Use it with different types of ravioli or even pasta for a delightful meal any night of the week.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice levels or add vegetables to make it your own.
- Comfort Food: A creamy sauce over tender ravioli makes for a comforting and hearty meal.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, it’s helpful to gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline the process and enhance your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large high-walled skillet
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Silicone spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large high-walled skillet: Perfect for mixing ingredients without spills, especially when making sauces.
- Silicone spatula: Ideal for stirring the sauce gently without scratching your cookware.
Ingredients
This easy ravioli sauce is so easy to make with refrigerated or frozen ravioli. It has a thick and flavorful cream sauce with a hint of tomato flavor, simple seasonings, and fresh or canned diced tomatoes.
For the Sauce Base
- 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)
For the Tomatoes
- 10 oz. Rotel tomatoes with green chilies (juices reserved)
For Creaminess
- 3 tablespoons cream cheese (softened)
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
For the Ravioli
- 20 oz. refrigerated ravioli
Optional Spice
- 1 pinch Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Easy Ravioli Sauce
Step 1: Prep Work
Measure out all ingredients prior to beginning. This will help streamline the cooking process.
Step 2: Cook the Base
Melt the butter in a large high-walled skillet over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 2 minutes, stirring continuously. Then add the flour and cook for another 2 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste along with onion powder, basil, oregano, and mustard powder until well combined.
Step 3: Add Liquids Gradually
Add the chicken broth in small splashes while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Repeat this step with half and half until everything is mixed well. Once combined, bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer.
Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes
Add the softened cream cheese along with drained diced tomatoes to the mixture. Remember to reserve any tomato juice if you want to thin out your sauce later.
Step 5: Cook Ravioli
While your sauce simmers, cook the ravioli according to package instructions. Drain them once cooked.
Step 6: Finish the Sauce
Lower the heat of your sauce to low. Gradually sprinkle in Parmesan cheese while stirring until fully combined. If desired, add red pepper flakes at this point for some extra heat.
Step 7: Combine Everything
Gently stir in your cooked ravioli using a silicone spatula until they are well coated with sauce. If needed, add reserved tomato juice for desired consistency. Serve hot!
How to Serve Easy Ravioli Sauce
This easy ravioli sauce pairs beautifully with various side dishes and toppings. Serving it right can elevate your meal experience and impress your family or guests.
With Fresh Herbs
- Basil: Sprinkle fresh basil on top for a burst of flavor and color.
- Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a nice touch and freshness.
Over Grated Cheese
- Parmesan: Top your dish with extra grated Parmesan for a cheesy finish.
- Mozzarella: Melted mozzarella can create a delightful gooey texture.
Accompanying Proteins
- Grilled Chicken: Serve alongside sliced grilled chicken for added protein.
- Italian Sausage: Crumbled sausage can enhance the dish’s flavors.
With Garlic Bread
- Garlic Breadsticks: Serve soft garlic breadsticks on the side for dipping.
- Toasted Baguette: A crusty baguette is perfect for scooping up the sauce.
How to Perfect Easy Ravioli Sauce
Perfecting your easy ravioli sauce ensures a rich, creamy, and flavorful result every time. Here are some tips to help you achieve that.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will enhance the flavor significantly.
- Gradual Mixing: Add liquids slowly to prevent lumps when making the sauce.
- Adjust Thickness: Use reserved tomato juice to thin out the sauce if needed.
- Taste Before Serving: Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving for optimal flavor.
- Control Heat: Keep the heat low after adding cheese to avoid clumping or burning.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Ravioli Sauce
Pairing side dishes with your easy ravioli sauce can make for a complete meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement the flavors of your dish.
- Caesar Salad: A classic salad with crisp romaine, croutons, and creamy dressing.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish.
- Roasted Asparagus: Seasoned roasted asparagus brings earthy flavors that balance the richness of the sauce.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer a comforting side option.
- Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables complements the Italian theme beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the perfect easy ravioli sauce can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Overcooking the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly. Cook it just until fragrant to avoid a bitter flavor in your sauce.
- Skipping the Flour: Flour thickens the sauce. If you skip this step, your sauce may turn out too runny.
- Not Reserving Tomato Juice: Always reserve some tomato juice from the diced tomatoes. This can help adjust the sauce’s consistency later.
- Adding Cheese Too Quickly: Gradually add the Parmesan cheese for a smoother texture. Adding it all at once can cause clumping.
- Underseasoning: Taste your sauce! Adjust seasonings like salt and pepper to enhance flavors.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keeps well for 3-4 days.
Freezing Easy Ravioli Sauce
- Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Good for up to 3 months.
Reheating Easy Ravioli Sauce
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
- Stovetop: Gently reheat over low heat while stirring frequently to prevent scorching.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make this Easy Ravioli Sauce vegetarian?
You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit any meat-based ingredients to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
Can I add meat to Easy Ravioli Sauce?
Absolutely! Ground beef or Italian sausage can be cooked and added for a hearty variation on this sauce.
What type of ravioli works best with this Easy Ravioli Sauce?
Both refrigerated and frozen ravioli work great! Choose your favorite filling, whether it’s cheese, spinach, or mushroom.
How can I customize the flavors of my Easy Ravioli Sauce?
Feel free to experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary. You can also add sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for additional flavor and nutrition.
Final Thoughts
This easy ravioli sauce is delicious and versatile. It pairs wonderfully with various ravioli types and allows for endless customization. Whether you want a creamy base or a spicy kick, you can easily adjust it to meet your preferences. Give it a try, and enjoy a delightful meal!
Easy Ravioli Sauce
Easy Ravioli Sauce is a creamy and flavorful accompaniment that transforms any ravioli dish into a comforting meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this sauce combines rich creaminess with a hint of tomato and spices, making it an exceptional choice for family dinners or quick lunches. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this delightful sauce using simple ingredients that pair beautifully with both refrigerated and frozen ravioli. Customize it by adjusting spice levels or adding extra veggies to make it your own. Serve it hot over your favorite ravioli, and enjoy a deliciously satisfying meal that everyone will love.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons salted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- ¾ cup chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups half and half
- 10 oz Rotel tomatoes with green chilies
- 3 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 20 oz refrigerated ravioli
Instructions
- Prep all ingredients before starting.
- In a large high-walled skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat and sauté garlic for about 2 minutes.
- Stir in flour and cook for another 2 minutes before adding tomato paste, broth, and half-and-half gradually until well combined.
- Bring to a boil then simmer; incorporate the drained tomatoes and cream cheese.
- Cook ravioli according to package instructions; drain once cooked.
- Add Parmesan cheese to the sauce while stirring; combine with cooked ravioli.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For added flavor, use fresh herbs like basil or parsley as garnish. To adjust thickness, reserve some tomato juice from diced tomatoes. Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
