Ravioli with Garlic Pesto Cream Sauce Recipe
Introduction
Ravioli with Garlic Pesto Cream Sauce is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. Tender ravioli is coated in a rich, garlicky sauce with creamy pesto and Parmesan, creating a delightful Italian-inspired meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb spinach or cheese ravioli
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup pesto
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the ravioli according to the package directions until tender. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to brown it.
- Step 3: Stir in the heavy cream, pesto, and grated Parmesan. Cook gently, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is warmed through and slightly thickened.
- Step 4: Add the cooked ravioli to the sauce and toss until evenly coated. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh basil leaves if desired.
Tips & Variations
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Add toasted pine nuts on top for extra crunch and flavor.
- Try using sun-dried tomato pesto for a different twist.
Storage
Store leftover ravioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water if the sauce thickens too much. Avoid microwaving to keep the sauce smooth.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen ravioli for this recipe?
Yes, frozen ravioli works perfectly. Just be sure to follow the package instructions for cooking times and do not thaw before boiling.
Is it possible to make the sauce dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute dairy-free butter and cream alternatives like coconut cream or cashew cream, and use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast.
PrintRavioli with Garlic Pesto Cream Sauce Recipe
This delicious Ravioli with Garlic Pesto Cream Sauce features tender spinach or cheese ravioli coated in a rich and flavorful cream sauce infused with garlic and vibrant pesto. Perfect for a quick yet elegant Italian-inspired meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 lb spinach or cheese ravioli
Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup pesto
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
To garnish
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Cook the ravioli: Cook 1 lb of spinach or cheese ravioli according to the package instructions, usually boiling in salted water until they float to the surface and are tender.
- Prepare the sauce: In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, making sure not to burn the garlic.
- Add cream and pesto: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 1/4 cup of pesto sauce. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld together and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Incorporate Parmesan: Stir in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Toss ravioli in sauce: Drain the cooked ravioli and add them directly into the skillet with the garlic pesto cream sauce. Toss gently to coat the ravioli evenly with the sauce.
- Serve and garnish: Plate the sauced ravioli and garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for a flavorful and visually appealing finish.
Notes
- You can substitute store-bought pesto or use homemade for better freshness.
- For a lighter version, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or a lower-fat cream alternative.
- Fresh garlic can be adjusted depending on your preference for pungency.
- If using frozen ravioli, add a minute or two to the cooking time as needed.
- Fresh basil not only adds flavor but also makes the dish more visually attractive.
Keywords: ravioli garlic pesto cream sauce easy Italian pasta dinner
