Name: Creamy Tuscan Cheese Ravioli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 12-14 oz cheese ravioli (1 package); 2-3 tbsp butter or olive oil; 1 small onion (finely chopped); 3-4 garlic cloves (minced); 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (sliced); 2 cups fresh spinach; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste); Optional: red pepper flakes for heat; Optional garnish: fresh basil or parsley

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Indulge in the comforting embrace of Creamy Tuscan Cheese Ravioli, where delicate cheese-filled pasta meets a luscious sun-dried tomato and spinach sauce. This dish perfectly balances richness and freshness, making it an ideal choice for a cozy weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend meal.

With every bite, you’ll experience tender ravioli coated in a creamy, flavorful sauce that blends aromatic garlic and onion with the sweet tang of sun-dried tomatoes and the vibrant pop of fresh spinach. It’s a simple yet elegant plate that feels luxurious without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy comfort food perfect for busy weeknights.
Rich, creamy sauce with bright sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach.
Versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and garnishes.

Ingredients

Cheese Ravioli: About 350–400 g (12–14 oz) of tender, filled pasta that provides a satisfying cheesy center.
Butter or Olive Oil: 2 to 3 tablespoons to sauté aromatics and build the sauce’s foundation.
Small Onion: Finely chopped for a sweet and mild base flavor that balances the sauce.
Garlic Cloves: 3 to 4 cloves minced to add fragrant depth and savoriness.
Heavy Cream: 1 cup to create a smooth, rich, and velvety sauce that envelops the ravioli.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Half a cup sliced to infuse a tangy sweetness and vibrant color.
Fresh Spinach: 2 cups of leafy greens that wilt to add freshness and nutrients.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Half a cup to melt into the sauce, lending sharp, nutty flavor.
Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper: To taste, seasoning and balancing the dish.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Adds a subtle kick of heat to contrast the creamy sauce.
Fresh Basil or Parsley (optional garnish): Bright, herbaceous finish that enhances aroma and presentation.

Instructions

Cook the Ravioli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, which flavors the pasta as it cooks. Add the cheese ravioli and cook according to the package instructions until tender but still firm to the bite. Drain gently to avoid tearing and set aside, keeping them warm and ready to be coated in sauce.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter or heat olive oil to create a flavorful base. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, releasing their sweetness. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about one minute until aromatic, being careful not to burn it to maintain a delicate flavor.
Make the Cream Sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet, gently bringing it to a simmer to meld with the sautéed aromatics. Add the sliced sun-dried tomatoes to infuse the sauce with their intense, tangy sweetness. Quickly stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted, allowing the greens to soften and the sauce to thicken into a luscious coating.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the sauce and stir until it fully melts and integrates, giving the sauce a silky texture and rich, nutty flavor. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to enhance the depth and complexity of the sauce.
Combine with Ravioli: Carefully add the cooked ravioli to the skillet, gently tossing to evenly coat each piece with the creamy Tuscan sauce. This step ensures every ravioli is flavorful and perfectly dressed without breaking the delicate pasta.
Serve: Plate the ravioli immediately while warm, garnishing with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a fragrant and colorful finishing touch that brightens the dish both visually and flavor-wise.

You Must Know

Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for a richer, more vibrant sauce flavor.
If the sauce thickens too much, loosen with a splash of reserved pasta water to maintain a silky consistency.
Alternative ravioli fillings like spinach or mushroom work well to vary textures and flavors.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to refresh the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy ravioli pairs wonderfully with crunchy garlic bread or a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, balancing the richness for a well-rounded meal.

Professional Tips

To avoid overcooking ravioli, closely monitor the boiling time as fresh or frozen packages differ.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melting and superior flavor compared to pre-grated options.
Fresh herbs added just before serving enhance aroma and color but avoid cooking them down to preserve their brightness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen ravioli for this recipe?: Yes, frozen ravioli works well; just adjust cooking time according to package directions and drain carefully to prevent tearing.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream sauce?: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream, and use a vegan cheese alternative to keep it creamy and delicious.
How can I make this recipe spicier?: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper when seasoning the sauce to achieve your preferred heat level.
What type of sun-dried tomatoes should I use?: Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes provide the richest flavor and softer texture, but dry-packed tomatoes rehydrated in warm water also work well.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?: Yes, you can make the sauce in advance and gently reheat it when ready. Add fresh spinach just before serving to keep it vibrant.
How do I prevent the sauce from separating?: Simmer the sauce gently without boiling and add cheese gradually off heat to maintain a smooth, creamy texture.