Easy Ravioli Sauce

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious way to elevate your pasta night, this Easy Ravioli Sauce is just the ticket! It’s creamy, tomatoey, and full of flavor, making it a perfect match for your favorite ravioli. What I love most about this recipe is how it brings comfort and joy to the table in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight dinner or serving it at a family gathering, this sauce never fails to impress.

This recipe is not only fantastic with ravioli but also versatile enough to pair beautifully with any pasta you have on hand. Trust me; once you try it, it will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up a delicious meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Creamy Delight: The addition of heavy cream gives this sauce a rich texture that your family will adore.
• Kid-Friendly: This sauce is mild yet flavorful, making it appealing for both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Use: Not just for ravioli, you can use this sauce on any pasta or even as a base for casseroles!
• Make Ahead: You can prepare this sauce in advance and store it in the fridge, ready to heat up when needed.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Easy Ravioli Sauce requires simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

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
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/3 cup heavy cream

Variations

The beauty of this Easy Ravioli Sauce lies in its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on what you have or your personal preferences:

• Add Veggies: Toss in some spinach or mushrooms for an extra nutrient boost and added flavor.
• Make It Spicy: If you like a kick, add red pepper flakes to spice things up!
• Swap the Cream: For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half or coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
• Change the Protein: Add cooked chicken or sautéed vegetables for heartier variations.

How to Make Easy Ravioli Sauce

Step 1: Heat the Oil

In a medium pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. This step is essential because heating the oil helps release those wonderful flavors from the onions and garlic.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add the onions and garlic to the pot. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes until they are soft and translucent. This step is crucial as it caramelizes the onions slightly, bringing out their natural sweetness.

Step 3: Add Tomato Paste

Once the onions are ready, stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional minute. This enhances the tomato flavor by allowing it to cook down a bit before adding other liquids.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time to mix in the chicken stock, diced tomatoes, sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring everything to a boil before reducing it to a simmer. Let it cook gently for 15-20 minutes; this allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Stir in Cream

Finally, stir in the heavy cream and let it cook for another two minutes. This step adds richness to your sauce and makes it perfectly creamy!

Step 6: Serve

Serve your delicious Easy Ravioli Sauce over cooked ravioli or any pasta of your choice. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Ravioli Sauce

Creating the perfect Easy Ravioli Sauce is all about attention to detail and a few helpful tricks. Here are some pro tips to elevate your sauce to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions and garlic make a world of difference in flavor. They add brightness and depth that dried options can’t match.

• Adjust the consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid. This allows the flavors to concentrate, giving you a richer taste.

• Experiment with herbs: Don’t hesitate to add fresh basil or parsley at the end of cooking. Fresh herbs brighten up the sauce and provide a pop of color and freshness.

• Taste as you go: Before serving, taste your sauce and adjust seasonings as needed. A little extra salt or pepper can make all the difference in enhancing the overall flavor.

• Make it ahead of time: This sauce stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days or freezes beautifully. Making it ahead allows the flavors to meld together even more!

How to Serve Easy Ravioli Sauce

Serving your Easy Ravioli Sauce is just as important as making it! Here are some wonderful ways to present this dish that will wow your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few torn leaves of fresh basil not only add vibrant color but also enhance the aroma of your dish.
• Grated Parmesan cheese alternative: Sprinkle some dairy-free grated cheese on top for an added layer of creaminess and flavor.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: If you enjoy a touch of heat, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can give your sauce a delightful kick.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: A classic pairing with any pasta dish, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus complement the richness of the ravioli sauce beautifully.
• Steamed broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds not only a lovely color but also a nutritious element that balances out your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to create a memorable dining experience with your Easy Ravioli Sauce! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This easy ravioli sauce is perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up in advance and enjoy it throughout the week, making busy days a little less hectic.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Pour the cooled sauce into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the containers for expansion as it freezes.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely; heat in 30-second intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe.

What can I serve with Easy Ravioli Sauce?

This versatile sauce pairs wonderfully with any type of pasta, including spaghetti, fettuccine, or even gnocchi. Don’t hesitate to experiment!

Can I make Easy Ravioli Sauce without heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter version that still maintains great flavor.

How long does Easy Ravioli Sauce last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Easy Ravioli Sauce will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope this easy ravioli sauce becomes a delightful addition to your family meals! It’s rich, creamy, and incredibly versatile—perfect for dressing up your favorite pasta dishes. Enjoy making it as much as I do, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations. Happy cooking!