Creamy Tuscan Ravioli is a luxurious yet simple dish that combines tender cheese-filled ravioli with a rich, garlic-infused cream sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach. This restaurant-quality meal is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
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Rich and Flavorful: The creamy sauce is enhanced with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning.
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Versatile: Easily adaptable with different types of ravioli or added proteins.
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Comfort Food: A hearty and satisfying meal that feels indulgent.
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Minimal Cleanup: Prepared in just one skillet, reducing dishwashing time.
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Family-Friendly: A dish that both adults and children will enjoy.
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Elegant Presentation: Looks impressive on the plate, perfect for entertaining.
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Customizable Heat: Adjust the level of spice to your preference.
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Seasonal Flexibility: Incorporate seasonal vegetables for variety.
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Leftover Friendly: Tastes great even when reheated the next day.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 (25 oz) package cheese ravioli
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2 tablespoons butter
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3 teaspoons minced garlic
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1 cup heavy cream
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon paprika
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
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1 cup baby spinach, washed and chopped
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½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
Directions
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Cook the Ravioli: Prepare the cheese ravioli according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Add Cream and Seasonings: Pour in the heavy cream, then whisk in the salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Continue to whisk until the sauce begins to bubble.
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Incorporate Cheese: Gradually add the shredded Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
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Add Vegetables: Stir in the chopped baby spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is wilted.
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Combine with Ravioli: Add the cooked ravioli to the skillet, gently tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
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Serve: Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4
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Preparation Time: 10 minutes
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Cooking Time: 20 minutes
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Total Time: 30 minutes
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Variations
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Protein Addition: Incorporate grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage for added protein.
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Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable-based ravioli and ensure the Parmesan is vegetarian-friendly.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
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Herb Infusion: Include fresh basil or thyme for an aromatic touch.
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Alternative Greens: Substitute spinach with kale or arugula for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if necessary.
FAQs
Can I use frozen ravioli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen ravioli can be used. Adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
What type of sun-dried tomatoes should I use?
Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil are recommended for their rich flavor and softer texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately. Reheat and combine with freshly cooked ravioli before serving.
Is there a dairy-free alternative to heavy cream?
You can use coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute, though it will alter the flavor profile.
How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?
Simmer the sauce for a few extra minutes to reduce it, or add a small amount of grated Parmesan cheese to thicken.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Freezing is not recommended as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.
What side dishes pair well with this ravioli?
A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement this dish nicely.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, tortellini or gnocchi can be used as alternatives to ravioli.
How do I prevent the ravioli from sticking together?
Ensure the ravioli are well-drained and lightly tossed with a bit of oil if not combining with the sauce immediately.
Is this dish suitable for children?
Absolutely, the creamy sauce and mild flavors are generally well-received by children.
Conclusion
Creamy Tuscan Ravioli is a delightful fusion of rich flavors and comforting textures, making it a standout dish for any occasion. Its quick preparation and versatile nature allow for easy customization to suit various dietary preferences and tastes. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends
Print
Creamy Tuscan Ravioli
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Pasta, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy Tuscan ravioli is a rich and flavorful pasta dish featuring cheese ravioli in a garlic-parmesan cream sauce with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. A restaurant-quality meal ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
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1 (25 oz) package cheese ravioli
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2 tbsp butter
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3 tsp garlic, minced
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1 cup heavy cream
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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1/2 tsp paprika
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese
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1 cup baby spinach, washed and chopped
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1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
Instructions
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Cook ravioli: Prepare the ravioli according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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Make sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
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Add cream and seasonings: Pour in the heavy cream, whisking in salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a gentle bubble.
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Incorporate cheese: Slowly whisk in the parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
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Add veggies: Stir in spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook until spinach wilts.
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Combine with pasta: Add the cooked ravioli to the sauce and gently toss to coat.
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Serve: Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and serve immediately.
Notes
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Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
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For a lighter version, substitute half of the cream with milk or a dairy-free alternative.
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Use fresh ravioli for the best texture and flavor.
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