Ravioli with Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

Learn how to make creamy ravioli with sun-dried tomato sauce in 20 minutes. Simple ingredients, restaurant-quality results. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Looking for a quick and delicious dinner idea? This ravioli with sun-dried tomato cream sauce is creamy, tangy, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ravioli with sun-dried tomato cream sauce combines the richness of cheese-filled pasta with the bold flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and a velvety cream sauce. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. For a similar pasta dish, try our penne alla vodka recipe.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create the best ravioli with sun-dried tomato cream sauce you’ve ever tasted. From selecting the right ingredients to mastering the sauce, we’ve got you covered. For more tips on cooking techniques, visit Serious Eats.

What Makes This Ravioli with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Special

This ravioli with sun-dried tomato cream sauce stands out because of its rich, tangy flavors. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and cream creates a luxurious sauce that pairs perfectly with cheese-filled ravioli. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and always a hit at the dinner table. For a complementary side dish, check out our chopped Italian salad.

The Secret to a Perfect Cream Sauce

The key to this recipe is the creamy sauce. By using heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, you achieve a smooth and velvety texture that coats the ravioli beautifully. The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy depth of flavor that elevates the dish. For more information on selecting quality Parmesan, visit Bon Appétit.

Ingredients for Ravioli with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

To make this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 package (20 oz) cheese ravioli
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

How to Make Ravioli with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce – Step by Step

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect ravioli with sun-dried tomato cream sauce:

Step 1: Cook the Ravioli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ravioli and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the ravioli, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use. For more tips on cooking pasta, visit Food Network.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the sun-dried tomatoes and garlic. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Toss and Serve

Add the cooked ravioli to the skillet and toss gently to coat them in the sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately. For a complete meal, pair it with our baked salmon.

Expert Tips for Perfect Results

To ensure your ravioli with sun-dried tomato cream sauce turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

Use High-Quality Ingredients

Opt for high-quality sun-dried tomatoes and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. These ingredients will elevate the flavor of your dish and make it taste like it came from a restaurant. For more information on selecting the best ingredients, visit The Kitchn.

Don’t Overcook the Ravioli

Cook the ravioli until they are al dente, which means they should be tender but still slightly firm to the bite. Overcooking can cause them to become mushy and fall apart. For more tips on cooking pasta, check out our spaghetti carbonara recipe.

Serving Suggestions

This ravioli with sun-dried tomato cream sauce is incredibly versatile. Here are some serving ideas:

• Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
• Serve it as a main course for a dinner party, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
• Add a protein like grilled chicken or shrimp to make the dish even more hearty and satisfying.
• Include it in a pasta buffet alongside other favorites like fettuccine Alfredo and spaghetti carbonara. For a delicious fettuccine Alfredo recipe, check out our fettuccine Alfredo.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover ravioli with sun-dried tomato cream sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the ravioli in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if necessary. For more tips on food storage, visit FDA’s food safety guidelines.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your tastes:

Vegetarian or Vegan Option

For a vegetarian version, ensure your ravioli is cheese-filled and made without meat. For a vegan option, use vegan ravioli, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream, and use a vegan Parmesan alternative. For more vegan recipes, check out our vegan chocolate cake.

Add Spinach or Mushrooms

For a boost of nutrients, add a handful of fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms to the sauce. These ingredients complement the sun-dried tomatoes and add extra texture and flavor to the dish. For more vegetable-based recipes, try our stuffed bell peppers.

Nutritional Benefits

While this dish is undeniably indulgent, it does offer some nutritional benefits. Sun-dried tomatoes are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, and the Parmesan cheese provides a good source of calcium and protein. Additionally, using whole wheat ravioli can increase the fiber content of the meal. For more information on the health benefits of sun-dried tomatoes, visit Healthline.

Common Questions About Ravioli with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

Here are some frequently asked questions about making and serving ravioli with sun-dried tomato cream sauce:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to room temperature before cooking for a smoother sauce and better emulsification. Cold ingredients can cause the sauce to separate.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Always save a cup of the pasta water before draining the ravioli. The starchy water helps adjust the sauce consistency and makes it cling better to the pasta.
• Toast the Garlic: Cook the garlic just until fragrant to avoid bitterness. Overcooking garlic can make the sauce taste harsh and unpleasant.
• Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes Gradually: If you’re using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drain them well and add them gradually to control the intensity of their flavor.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish. Add them just before serving to preserve their vibrant flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning at the End: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to suit your preferences.
• Use a Heavy Skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet ensures even heat distribution, preventing the sauce from burning or sticking to the pan.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try adding a sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.