Easy Ravioli Sauce Recipe: Quick and Delicious

Looking for a quick and flavorful sauce to elevate your ravioli? This easy ravioli sauce combines rich tomatoes, creamy texture, and fragrant herbs for a restaurant-quality dish you can make in minutes. Whether you’re using store-bought or homemade ravioli, this sauce is a perfect match for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

What Is Ravioli Sauce?

Ravioli sauce is a versatile topping designed to complement the delicate flavors of stuffed pasta. This recipe uses a base of crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese to create a creamy tomato sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Dried basil and oregano add classic Italian seasoning, while garlic enhances the savory notes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes.
• Rich and Creamy: Combines the freshness of tomatoes with the richness of cream and Parmesan.
• Customizable: Pairs well with any ravioli filling, from cheese to spinach or meat.
• Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser for all ages.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
• ½ tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Sauce

1. Heat the Oil: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Sauté Garlic: Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Stir in crushed tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Incorporate Cream: Reduce the heat to low and stir in heavy cream. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Finishing Touches

5. Add Parmesan Cheese: Mix in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Serve: Toss cooked ravioli in the sauce, or spoon the sauce over the ravioli. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this sauce with cheese, spinach, or mushroom ravioli for a perfect flavor combination.
• Serve alongside a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
• Complement with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, for a sophisticated touch.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream if needed to restore the consistency.

Freezing Instructions

• This sauce freezes well. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
• Herbaceous Flavor: Substitute fresh basil and oregano for dried herbs.
• Vegan Option: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and use a vegan Parmesan substitute.
• Extra Veggies: Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for additional texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can substitute fresh tomatoes. Use about 4 medium tomatoes, peeled and diced. Cook longer to allow them to break down into a sauce.

What ravioli pairs best with this sauce?
Cheese ravioli is a classic choice, but it also works well with spinach, mushroom, or even lobster-filled ravioli.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving.

This easy ravioli sauce is the perfect way to enhance any pasta night. Creamy, flavorful, and ready in minutes, it’s a must-try recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out—your taste buds will thank you!

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