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Ravioli with Garlic Pesto Cream Sauce Recipe

4.6 from 125 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Incorporate Parmesan: Stir in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
  5. 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.
  6. 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