If you’re looking for a quick yet luxurious meal, Creamy Tuscan Ravioli is the perfect dish.
This recipe combines tender cheese-filled ravioli with a rich, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – Ready in under 30 minutes!
- Rich & Creamy – The sauce is packed with bold, Tuscan-inspired flavors.
- Versatile – Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms for a hearty twist.
Ingredients
- 1 package (9-12 oz) cheese ravioli (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper to taste
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- ½ cup chicken broth (optional for a lighter sauce)
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter (for extra richness)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ravioli
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add ravioli and cook according to the package instructions until tender but firm to the bite.
- Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water to adjust sauce consistency later.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute to release their flavors.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth (if using), stirring well.
- Add Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and butter, mixing until the sauce starts to thicken.
Step 3: Add Spinach & Ravioli
- Toss in fresh spinach and stir until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add cooked ravioli to the skillet, gently coating them in the creamy sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
- Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for added richness.
- Serve immediately with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Creamy Tuscan Ravioli
- Use Fresh Ravioli – Fresh ravioli cooks quickly and has a better texture than frozen.
- Don’t Overcook the Ravioli – Overcooked ravioli can become mushy. Cook them until just tender.
- Balance the Sauce – If the sauce is too thick, add more chicken broth or pasta water. If too thin, let it simmer longer to thicken.
- Enhance the Flavor – A splash of white wine in the sauce adds depth and richness.
- Make It Lighter – Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter version.
Variations
- Protein Boost – Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or cooked Italian sausage.
- Extra Veggies – Mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes make great additions.
- Vegan Option – Use plant-based ravioli, coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the sauce ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat and toss with freshly cooked ravioli when ready to serve.
2. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute half-and-half, whole milk (for a lighter version), or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream.
3. Can I freeze this dish?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the sauce separately. Let it cool, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before adding cooked ravioli.
4. What other pasta works well with this sauce?
Fettuccine, tortellini, or penne all pair beautifully with the creamy Tuscan sauce.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Tuscan Ravioli is a simple yet indulgent dish that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
The combination of tender ravioli, rich cream sauce, and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes creates a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a crisp salad, and you’ll have a restaurant-worthy dish in no time.
Try this recipe today and impress your family with this delightful homemade pasta!