Imagine diving into a plate of cheese ravioli, where each tender pocket bursts with creamy ricotta and savory mozzarella, all enveloped in a rich, zesty tomato sauce. The aroma fills your kitchen like a warm hug, making your stomach growl louder than a hungry bear! Honestly, if comfort had a flavor, it would be cheese ravioli – perfect for cozy family dinners or those evenings when you just need to treat yourself.
The excitement of this dish goes beyond the first bite. Picture sharing this delightful meal with friends who can’t help but smile at the deliciousness before them. It’s an experience that transforms any ordinary night into a festive occasion. So grab your apron, and let’s embark on this cheesy adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cheese ravioli recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
- The flavor profile combines rich cheeses with a hint of herbs for a delightful taste explosion
- Visually, these vibrant pasta pockets are as stunning as they are delicious, promising to impress anyone at your table
- Perfect for various occasions from casual family meals to elegant dinner parties, this dish suits any gathering perfectly
I remember the first time I made cheese ravioli for my family; their faces lit up as they took their first bites! It quickly became our go-to comfort food.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Cheese Ravioli: Choose high-quality fresh pasta from your local market or make it homemade for extra love.
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Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavors while adding richness to the sauce.
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Garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides an aromatic depth that elevates the entire dish.
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Canned Whole Tomatoes: Opt for San Marzano tomatoes for their natural sweetness and robust flavor.
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Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds a salty kick that complements the creaminess of the ravioli perfectly.
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Fresh Basil: Use aromatic basil leaves for garnish; they add freshness and color to your dish.
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Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sautéing the Aromatics: Begin by heating two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. As the oil shimmers, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—around 30 seconds or so. You want that golden hue without burning!
Creating the Sauce Base: Pour in the canned tomatoes along with their juice. Use a wooden spoon to break them up gently while cooking for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly. The aroma should be heavenly by now!
Seasoning Your Sauce: Sprinkle salt and pepper generously into the sauce while stirring in some fresh basil leaves. Let it simmer on low heat while you prepare the ravioli—it’s about to get cheesy!
Cooking the Ravioli: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil over high heat. Gently add cheese ravioli and cook according to package instructions—usually around 4-5 minutes until they float like little pasta boats ready for adventure.
Pasta Meets Sauce: Using a slotted spoon, transfer cooked ravioli directly into your skillet of sauce, gently folding them together without breaking those delicate pockets. Cook together for another minute so flavors meld beautifully.
Finishing Touches: Serve hot with generous sprinkles of grated parmesan and fresh basil on top. Enjoy every cheesy bite—you’ve earned it!
Now sit back and relish in your creation because nothing says “I love you” quite like homemade cheese ravioli!
You Must Know
- The cheese ravioli recipe is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with comforting textures
- You can easily customize the filling based on your taste preferences, making each batch unique
- The right sauce can elevate the dish into a gourmet masterpiece
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect cheese ravioli, start by boiling salted water while preparing your filling. Once ready, cook the ravioli gently to avoid tearing them apart.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses for the filling, such as ricotta or goat cheese. Adding fresh herbs or spices can enhance the flavor profile significantly.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover ravioli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a bit of sauce to restore their original flavor and texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making cheese ravioli, ensure your pasta dough is rolled thin for a delicate bite
- Always seal ravioli edges tightly to prevent filling from leaking during cooking
- Remember to taste your filling before sealing; adjustments can make all the difference!
Creating my first homemade cheese ravioli was like a culinary adventure gone right! My friends raved about it, and I realized I had officially leveled up my cooking game.
FAQ
What type of cheese works best for ravioli filling?
Ricotta combined with Parmesan creates a creamy and flavorful filling for your ravioli.
How long do I need to cook store-bought cheese ravioli?
Typically, store-bought cheese ravioli cooks in about 3-5 minutes in boiling water.
Can I freeze homemade cheese ravioli?
Yes, freeze uncooked ravioli on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container once solidified.
Cheese Ravioli
Indulge in the comforting delight of homemade cheese ravioli, where each tender pocket is filled with creamy ricotta and savory mozzarella, all enveloped in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dish promises to transform your meal into an unforgettable experience. With its vibrant colors and harmonious flavors, cheese ravioli is a feast for both the eyes and taste buds. So roll up your sleeves and join me on this cheesy culinary adventure that will leave you craving more!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cheese ravioli
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz canned whole San Marzano tomatoes
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped + extra for garnish
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Create sauce base: Pour in canned tomatoes with juice. Break them up gently and simmer for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Season sauce: Add salt, pepper, and chopped basil. Let it simmer on low while preparing the ravioli.
- Cook ravioli: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add cheese ravioli and cook according to package instructions (typically 4-5 minutes) until they float.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Using a slotted spoon, transfer cooked ravioli to the skillet, folding gently with the sauce for another minute.
- Serve: Plate hot, topped with grated Parmesan and additional basil.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
