Ravioli sauce has been my go-to for elevating a simple weeknight meal into something special. I remember the first time I tried making my own creamy ravioli sauce from scratch; the aroma of sautéed garlic and simmering tomatoes filled my kitchen, promising a delicious dinner. It’s incredibly satisfying to create such a rich and flavorful sauce that perfectly coats every piece of pasta. This recipe is my adaptation of a classic Italian-American favorite, designed to be both simple and incredibly satisfying. Let’s whip up some amazing homemade ravioli sauce together!
Why You’ll Love This Ravioli Sauce
This isn’t just any sauce; it’s a game-changer for your pasta nights. You’ll adore how quickly it comes together, making it a truly easy ravioli sauce. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, pairing beautifully with all sorts of filled pasta.
- Quick preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich flavor: A delightful balance of tangy tomatoes and creamy indulgence.
- Homemade taste: Tastes like it simmered for hours, but it’s an easy ravioli sauce.
- Versatile pairing: Works wonderfully with cheese, spinach, or any ravioli you love.
- Smooth texture: The rosé color and creamy consistency are simply irresistible.
- Customizable: Easily adjust seasonings to your personal taste.
- Impresses guests: Serve this for company and they’ll think you’re a gourmet chef!
Ingredients for Homemade Ravioli Sauce
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to creating a delicious tomato ravioli sauce that will make your ravioli sing. I love how accessible everything is!
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – this forms the base for sautéing our aromatics
- 1 medium onion, finely diced – for a sweet, savory foundation
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that classic Italian flavor
- 1/3 cup tomato paste – this is key to deepening the tomato flavor and color of our sauce
- 1 cup low sodium chicken stock (or vegetable stock) – adds liquid and savory depth; use vegetable stock for a vegetarian meal
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes – provides texture and a burst of tomato goodness
- 1 tablespoon sugar – balances the acidity of the tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – a blend of herbs for authentic taste
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – enhances all the flavors
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper – for a subtle kick
- 1/3 cup heavy cream – this is what makes it a creamy ravioli sauce, adding richness and that beautiful rosé hue
It’s so rewarding to create a delicious sauce from scratch, and this rosé ravioli sauce is a testament to that! It really delivers a wonderful flavor without taking up your whole evening. This quick ravioli sauce is perfect for those nights when you want something special, but time is of the essence.
How to Make Rosé Ravioli Sauce
- Step 1: Start by heating 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil in a medium pot over medium-high heat. I love the sizzle this makes!
- Step 2: Add the 1 medium onion, finely diced, and 3 cloves garlic, minced. Sauté these aromatics for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is nice and soft and the garlic is fragrant. You’ll start to smell that classic Italian base forming.
- Step 3: Stir in the 1/3 cup tomato paste. Cook this for just 1 minute, stirring constantly. This step really helps to deepen the tomato flavor and gives our sauce that lovely color.
- Step 4: Now, pour in the 1 cup low sodium chicken stock (or vegetable stock for a vegetarian option), the 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper. Give it all a good stir to combine.
- Step 5: Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes. This allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich base for your quick ravioli sauce.
- Step 6: Uncover the pot and stir in the 1/3 cup heavy cream. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring, until the sauce is heated through and has that gorgeous, creamy rosé color. Be careful not to boil it once the cream is added.
- Step 7: Your fantastic homemade ravioli sauce is ready! Pour this delicious quick ravioli sauce generously over your favorite cooked ravioli. Serve immediately and enjoy this simple yet satisfying meal.
Pro Tips for the Best Ravioli Sauce
Want to elevate your homemade ravioli sauce? These simple tips will ensure your sauce is a showstopper every time. They make this easy ravioli sauce even better!
- Always use good quality canned diced tomatoes; they have a great texture and flavor for this sauce.
- Don’t skip sautéing the onion and garlic until soft – this builds a crucial flavor base.
- When adding the cream, make sure the sauce isn’t boiling rapidly, as this can cause it to curdle.
- Taste and adjust seasonings before serving! A pinch more salt or a dash of red pepper flakes can make all the difference.
What’s the secret to perfect creamy ravioli sauce?
The secret to a perfect creamy ravioli sauce lies in that gentle simmer after adding the cream. It allows the richness to meld without breaking, creating a smooth finish reminiscent of a classic Italian ravioli sauce. For more tips on achieving perfect pasta dishes, check out these tips for cooking pasta.
Can I make this ravioli sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare this sauce up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s a great way to save time on busy nights. You can find more make-ahead meal ideas here.
How do I avoid common mistakes with tomato ravioli sauce?
Avoid burning your garlic by sautéing it gently. Also, be careful not to over-reduce the sauce before adding the cream, as this can make it too thick and pasty. Learning about common cooking mistakes can help improve your results, as discussed in this article on kitchen mistakes.
Best Ways to Serve Ravioli Sauce
This versatile sauce is a dream for any ravioli. It’s particularly delightful as a sauce for cheese ravioli, where its creamy tomato notes complement the mild cheese filling beautifully. I also love it with spinach and ricotta filled ravioli, as the sauce’s richness cuts through the slight bitterness of the spinach.
- Classic Pairing: Serve this rosé sauce generously over your favorite ravioli. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette and some crusty garlic bread are perfect companions to soak up every last drop of this delicious sauce.
- Baked Ravioli Casserole: Gently toss cooked ravioli with the sauce, layer it in a baking dish with some mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden. It’s comfort food at its finest!
- Dipping Sauce: Don’t forget, this sauce is also fantastic as a ravioli dipping sauce! Serve it in a small bowl alongside your ravioli for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutrition Facts for Ravioli Sauce
When you whip up this homemade ravioli sauce, you’ll find it’s a delicious way to add flavor without a huge calorie count. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutrition per serving, which is about 1/4 of the sauce:
- Calories: Approx. 180-200 kcal
- Fat: Approx. 12-15g
- Saturated Fat: Approx. 6-8g
- Protein: Approx. 3-5g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 15-18g
- Fiber: Approx. 2-3g
- Sugar: Approx. 8-10g
- Sodium: Approx. 300-400mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially the type of stock and cream you choose for your sauce. For more information on healthy eating, consider resources like the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
How to Store and Reheat Ravioli Sauce
Properly storing and reheating this delicious homemade ravioli sauce ensures you can enjoy its delightful flavor later. My favorite part is knowing I have extra sauce ready to go for another meal!
- Cooling: Always let the sauce cool completely on the counter before transferring it to storage containers. This prevents condensation, which can affect texture and shelf life.
- Refrigerator Storage: Transfer the cooled sauce into an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days. This makes it a perfect candidate for meal prep, giving you a quick ravioli sauce whenever you need it.
- Freezer Storage: For longer storage, freeze the sauce in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be kept frozen for up to three months. This is a fantastic way to have a classic Italian ravioli sauce on hand for months!
- Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the sauce in a saucepan over low to medium heat. Stir frequently to ensure even heating. If the sauce seems too thick after refrigeration or freezing, add a splash of water, milk, or cream to loosen it up to your desired consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ravioli Sauce
What sauce goes with ravioli?
Just about any sauce can go with ravioli, but a creamy rosé sauce like this one is a fantastic choice for most types, especially cheese or spinach filled. For heartier fillings like meat or mushroom, a robust marinara sauce for ravioli or even a rich Bolognese works wonderfully. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
Is this sauce good for cheese ravioli?
Absolutely! This creamy rosé sauce is a dream with cheese ravioli. The balance of tomato and cream complements the mild, savory cheese filling perfectly without overpowering it. It’s one of my favorite pairings for a reason!
Can I make this ravioli sauce vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this a vegetarian ravioli sauce! Simply swap the low sodium chicken stock for low sodium vegetable stock. The rest of the ingredients are already vegetarian-friendly, making it a simple substitution for a delicious meat-free meal. You can find more vegetarian recipes here.
How much sauce do I need per serving of ravioli?
A good rule of thumb is about 1/2 cup of sauce per serving of ravioli. This recipe yields approximately 4 servings, so you’ll have enough to generously coat your pasta. If you’re serving it with sides, you might use slightly less, but it’s always nice to have a little extra for dipping!
Variations of Ravioli Sauce You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered this creamy rosé, you might want to explore other delicious options. This recipe is a fantastic starting point, but there are so many ways to switch up your ravioli sauce!
- Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes along with the garlic and onion in Step 2. This transforms it into a delightful spicy rosé sauce that pairs beautifully with ricotta-filled ravioli.
- Lemon Zest Brightness: Stir in the zest of one lemon and a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice at the very end, just before serving. This adds a wonderful brightness and is a fantastic variation if you find the sauce a bit too rich.
- Classic Marinara: If you prefer a more traditional tomato base, you can omit the heavy cream entirely and simmer the sauce a bit longer. This creates a robust marinara sauce for ravioli that is wonderfully simple and satisfying, perfect for any ravioli filling.
- Herb Infusion: Feel free to experiment with fresh herbs! Chopped fresh basil, parsley, or even a little fresh oregano stirred in at the end can add another layer of flavor, making it a truly personalized ravioli sauce.
Ravioli Sauce: 1 Creamy, Dreamy Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and creamy rosé sauce perfect for ravioli, featuring a balance of tomato and cream flavors.
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 (or vegetable stock)
- 1 can (15 ounces) 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 onion and garlic for 4-5 minutes until onion is soft.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
- Add chicken stock, diced tomatoes, sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and cook for 2 more minutes until heated through.
- Pour the ravioli sauce over cooked ravioli and serve hot.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, use vegetable stock.
- For a lighter sauce, use half and half or milk instead of heavy cream.
- Add fresh basil or lemon juice for brightness.
- Add red pepper flakes or Parmesan for deeper flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or stock if needed.
- This sauce can be frozen for up to one month.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/4 of sauce)
- Calories: Approx. 180-200 kcal (estimated, varies with ingredients)
- Sugar: Approx. 8-10g (estimated)
- Sodium: Approx. 300-400mg (estimated, depends on stock and salt added)
- Fat: Approx. 12-15g (estimated)
- Saturated Fat: Approx. 6-8g (estimated)
- Unsaturated Fat: Approx. 6-7g (estimated)
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 15-18g (estimated)
- Fiber: Approx. 2-3g (estimated)
- Protein: Approx. 3-5g (estimated)
- Cholesterol: Approx. 30-40mg (estimated)
