Last Updated on August 29, 2023 by Emma White
Ravioli is a type of stuffed pasta that is loved across the United States and around the world. The pillowy pockets of pasta filled with delicious cheeses, meats, vegetables, and more are favorites for meals, appetizers, and special occasions. In fact, ravioli consumption has increased by over 20% in the last decade, according to industry reports, showing its growing popularity.
The versatility of fillings and sauces makes ravioli an endlessly customizable and satisfying dish. Whether you’re craving a classic cheese ravioli with marinara or want to try a more unique filling like butternut squash, the options are endless when it comes to this iconic pasta.
Read on for six amazing ravioli recipes and filling ideas that will have you rushing to make a batch.
1. Butternut Squash Ravioli with Brown Butter Sage Sauce
For a seasonal fall dish, try ravioli stuffed with a mixture of roasted butternut squash, garlic, Parmesan, nutmeg, and sage. The sweet and savory filling pairs perfectly with a brown butter sage sauce.
Simply melt butter over medium heat until it turns a light brown color and has a nutty aroma, then mix in fresh sage. Pour the sauce over the cooked ravioli for a delicious, autumnal meal.
For those eager to perfect this dish, you might consider following a detailed butternut squash ravioli recipe. This would allow you to recreate this rich and flavorful pasta, ensuring every bite encapsulates the essence of fall.
2. Cheese Ravioli with Marinara Sauce
The classic cheese ravioli is a crowd-pleaser and easy weeknight dinner. For the filling, use a blend of ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses for a creamy, cheesy flavor. Mix the cheeses together in a bowl with some chopped parsley, garlic, salt and pepper.
Spoon the filling onto the ravioli dough squares, brush the edges with water, and seal into pillow shapes. Boil the ravioli for 2-3 minutes until they float to the top. Drain and serve with warm marinara sauce. Look for a smooth, rich tomato sauce seasoned with basil, oregano, and garlic. Top with grated parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
For extra flavor, bake the cheese ravioli with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. Spread sauce in a baking dish lay ravioli on top, and cover with more sauce and shredded mozzarella. Bake at 375F for 20 minutes until hot and bubbly. The melted mozzarella adds stringy, cheesy deliciousness. Serve with a leafy green salad and garlic bread for a hearty Italian-inspired dinner.
3. Lobster Ravioli with Lemon Cream Sauce
For an elegant, special occasion meal, lobster ravioli is a luxurious choice. Make the filling by mixing cooked lobster meat with ricotta, lemon zest, chives, salt, and pepper. Hand roll the ravioli dough into rounds, spoon-filling in the center, brush edges with water, and seal into pillows.
Boil the lobster ravioli for 2-3 minutes until tender. While the ravioli cooks, make the lemon cream sauce. Sauté shallots in butter until soft. Add heavy cream and lemon juice and simmer until thickened. Stir in parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
Toss the lobster ravioli with the rich lemon cream sauce. Garnish with extra chives and lemon zest. Serve with chilled white wine and mixed greens salad for a romantic dinner or special celebration meal. The sweet lobster filling and tangy lemon sauce are a match made in heaven.
4. Mushroom Ravioli with Truffle Oil
For an earthy, umami-packed ravioli, try a mushroom filling. Sauté cremini, shiitake, or oyster mushrooms in olive oil with garlic and shallots. Season with thyme, salt and pepper. Let the mushroom mixture cool before mixing it with ricotta cheese, nutmeg, and parsley.
Stuff into ravioli, seal, and boil until tender, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and toss with extra virgin olive oil or butter. Finish with a drizzle of truffle oil and a sprinkle of chopped Italian parsley. The truffle oil adds a touch of luxury and enhances the deep, woodsy mushroom flavors.
Use a mix of mushroom varieties like shiitake, oyster, and portobello for extra richness. Porcini mushrooms also pair nicely with the truffle oil. Serve the mushroom ravioli as a starter or main course. A crisp green salad balances out this earthy, savory pasta dish.
5. Chicken and Spinach Ravioli with Tomato Cream Sauce
This ravioli is filled with protein-rich ground chicken and spinach for a lighter take. Sauté the ground chicken with minced garlic, salt and pepper. Let cool before mixing with chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheese.
Stuff the filling into ravioli pockets and boil until tender yet firm. Drain and serve with a zesty tomato cream sauce. Sauté diced tomatoes in olive oil with garlic and red pepper flakes. Add heavy cream and simmer until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh basil.
The tomato cream sauce complements the chicken and spinach filling nicely. For extra nutrition, use whole wheat ravioli dough. Serve this hearty ravioli dish with a side salad for a balanced meal the whole family can enjoy. Leftovers also make an excellent lunch.
6. Roasted Vegetable Ravioli with Walnut Pesto
This vegetarian ravioli is filled with a medley of roasted vegetables. Try eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms and artichokes. Toss the chopped veggies with olive oil, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Roast at 400F until tender, about 20 minutes.
Purée the vegetable mixture into a chunky filling and mix with ricotta, Parmesan, and fresh herbs like basil, dill, or chives. Stuff into ravioli pillows and boil for 2-3 minutes until just tender. Toss with a creamy walnut pesto sauce made from walnuts, basil, olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan.
The nutty pesto pairs nicely with the sweet roasted veggies. Top with crumbled feta or goat cheese for extra flavor. This vegetarian ravioli makes a light yet satisfying meatless main course.
Conclusion
With so many tasty fillings to explore, it’s easy to see why ravioli is such a beloved pasta. From classic cheese and marinara to more unique fillings like crab or roasted veggies, the possibilities are endless. With this variety of ten amazing ravioli recipes and filling ideas, you will surely find a new favorite. So grab some ravioli wrappers and start stuffing for a comforting, crave-worthy meal.
