Easy Ravioli Sauce
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that brings comfort to your table, this Easy Ravioli Sauce is just what you need! It’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, making it a favorite in my home. I love how this sauce comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be paired with any pasta you have on hand!
Every time I whip up this Easy Ravioli Sauce, I’m reminded of those cherished moments spent around the dinner table—sharing laughs, stories, and of course, great food. Whether you’re cooking for family or just treating yourself to a comforting dish, this sauce will surely become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This sauce takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, freeing up your evening for more quality time.
- Creamy Delight: The addition of heavy cream gives the sauce a luscious texture that pairs beautifully with ravioli or any pasta.
- Family-Friendly: With its rich tomato flavor and creamy goodness, even the pickiest eaters will ask for seconds!
- Versatile Use: While it’s perfect for ravioli, feel free to use it with any pasta of your choice or as a base for other dishes.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this sauce ahead of time and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this Easy Ravioli Sauce. You likely have many of them in your pantry already!
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion (finely diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/3 cup tomato paste
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken stock
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
Variations
This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways you can mix things up:
- Add some veggies: Toss in some spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
- Spice it up: If you like a kick, add red pepper flakes to give the sauce some heat.
- Swap the cream: Use coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free alternative while maintaining creaminess.
- Mix in protein: Add cooked chicken or sautéed mushrooms to make it heartier.
How to Make Easy Ravioli Sauce
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a medium pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onions and garlic, cooking for about 4-5 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. This step is crucial because sautéing these ingredients brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
Step 2: Incorporate the Tomato Paste
Next, stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for about 1 minute. This helps caramelize the sugars in the paste, intensifying its flavor before adding other liquids.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Add in your chicken stock, diced tomatoes, sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat to simmer. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes; this allows all those flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Finish with Cream
Finally, stir in the heavy cream and let it cook for an additional 2 minutes. This last step transforms your sauce into a creamy delight that clings perfectly to every ravioli.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Easy Ravioli Sauce over freshly cooked ravioli or any pasta you prefer. Enjoy every bite knowing you’ve created something comforting and delicious in just half an hour!
Pro Tips for Making Easy Ravioli Sauce
Creating the perfect Easy Ravioli Sauce is a breeze if you keep these handy tips in mind!
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions and garlic will enhance the flavor profile of your sauce, making it more aromatic and delicious.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Since everyone’s palate is different, feel free to tweak the salt and pepper levels to suit your preference. This ensures that every bite is just right for you.
- Experiment with herbs: If you have fresh herbs like basil or parsley on hand, adding them at the end can provide a burst of freshness and color to your sauce.
- Make it ahead: This sauce stores beautifully in the fridge for up to a week, so consider making a double batch. It’s perfect for quick meals on busy nights!
- Blend for creaminess: If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the sauce before adding the cream. This gives you an ultra-creamy finish that clings perfectly to each ravioli.
How to Serve Easy Ravioli Sauce
Serving your Easy Ravioli Sauce beautifully can make your meal feel extra special! Here are some delightful ideas for presentation.
Garnishes
- Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley adds color and a fresh taste that brightens the dish.
- Grated Parmesan cheese substitute: For a non-dairy option, try using nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese alternative to give that cheesy flavor without any animal products.
- Cracked black pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper not only enhances flavor but also adds visual appeal.
Side Dishes
- Garlic bread: A warm, toasted slice of garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate. The buttery garlic flavor complements the richness of the ravioli sauce beautifully.
- Steamed vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans offer a refreshing crunch and a nutritious balance to the meal. They add color and vitamins, creating a well-rounded plate.
- Mixed greens salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the creamy sauce, keeping things light yet satisfying.
- Risotto or quinoa: For something heartier, serve your ravioli with a side of creamy risotto or fluffy quinoa. These grains soak up flavors wonderfully and elevate your dining experience.
Now that you’re equipped with these tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to enjoy this delicious Easy Ravioli Sauce! Happy cooking!
Make Ahead and Storage
This easy ravioli sauce is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it come together quickly, but it also stores well, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to keep your sauce fresh for later use.
Storing Leftovers
- Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Make sure to let the sauce cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing
- Allow the sauce to cool completely before freezing.
- Transfer the sauce into freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking!
Reheating
- Thaw the frozen sauce in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- To reheat, warm in a pot over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally until heated through.
- You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot.
FAQs
Have questions about this easy ravioli sauce? You’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.
Can I use this easy ravioli sauce with other types of pasta?
Absolutely! This versatile sauce pairs well with any pasta you have on hand. Whether it’s spaghetti, penne, or even gnocchi, feel free to experiment!
How long does this easy ravioli sauce last in the fridge?
When properly stored in an airtight container, this easy ravioli sauce can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it cool down before storing!
Can I make this sauce dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. This will give you a creamy texture without using animal-derived products.
What can I serve with this easy ravioli sauce?
Besides ravioli, you can serve this rich and flavorful sauce over grilled vegetables or as a dipping sauce for breadsticks. The possibilities are endless!
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this easy ravioli sauce as much as I do! It’s not just simple and quick; it’s packed with flavor and perfect for busy nights when you want something comforting. Remember, cooking is about having fun and creating memories—so gather your loved ones and enjoy every delicious bite together. Happy cooking!
Easy Ravioli Sauce
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
If you’re craving a comforting meal that comes together quickly, this Easy Ravioli Sauce is your go-to recipe! In just 30 minutes, you can create a rich and creamy sauce bursting with flavor, perfect for dressing up any pasta, especially ravioli. With its balance of savory tomatoes and luscious cream, this dish is not only family-friendly but also versatile enough to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or looking for a satisfying weeknight meal, this sauce will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion (finely diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/3 cup tomato paste
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken stock
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a medium pot over medium-high heat. Sauté finely diced onions and minced garlic for 4-5 minutes until soft.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to enhance flavor.
- Add chicken stock, diced tomatoes, sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and cook for an additional 2 minutes until the sauce is creamy.
- Serve over freshly cooked ravioli or your choice of pasta.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup (120g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
