Easy Ravioli Sauce

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious sauce that elevates your pasta game, you’ve come to the right place! This Easy Ravioli Sauce is one of my absolute favorites because it combines rich flavors with a creamy texture. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile enough to use with any pasta, not just ravioli!

Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this sauce will surely impress. Trust me, every spoonful is pure comfort food bliss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: This sauce comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those last-minute dinner plans.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy, tomatoey goodness that goes well with any pasta.
• Versatile use: While it’s designed for ravioli, you can easily pair this sauce with other types of pasta or even use it as a base for baked dishes!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare this sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for an easy reheat on busy nights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Easy Ravioli Sauce, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Most of these are likely already 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
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/3 cup heavy cream

Variations

One of the best things about this Easy Ravioli Sauce is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to make it your own.

• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add red pepper flakes or fresh basil for a kick.
• Opt for plant-based: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
• Change up the base: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock to cater to different dietary preferences.

How to Make Easy Ravioli Sauce

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a medium pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onions and garlic, cooking for about 4-5 minutes until they are soft and translucent. This step is essential because sautéing these aromatics brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor.

Step 2: Incorporate Tomato Paste

Next, add the tomato paste to the pot and cook for an additional minute. This allows the tomato paste to caramelize slightly, enhancing its rich flavor before adding additional liquids.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

Now it’s time to mix in your chicken stock, diced tomatoes, sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce it to a simmer. Cooking this mixture for 15-20 minutes helps all those wonderful flavors meld together.

Step 4: Creamy Finish

Finally, stir in the heavy cream and let it cook for another 2 minutes. This step transforms your sauce into a creamy dream that clings beautifully to your ravioli or any pasta of your choice!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve this luscious sauce over cooked ravioli and enjoy every bite! It’s that easy. Pair it with some garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Pro Tips for Making Easy Ravioli Sauce

Making this easy ravioli sauce is a breeze, but a few tips can help you elevate it even further!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions and garlic will give your sauce a vibrant flavor, making it taste homemade and delicious.

• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer or add more tomato paste. For a thinner consistency, simply add more chicken stock.

• Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to add other herbs like basil or oregano to customize the flavor profile to your liking. It’ll create a unique twist that suits your palate.

• Blend for creaminess: If you like a smoother texture, use an immersion blender right in the pot for a couple of seconds after adding the cream. This will create an ultra-creamy sauce without any lumps.

• Make it ahead of time: This sauce keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to a month. A quick reheat will save you time on busy weekdays!

How to Serve Easy Ravioli Sauce

Serving this delightful ravioli sauce is all about presentation and complementary flavors that enhance your meal experience. Here are some fun ways to serve it up!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of torn fresh basil adds color and freshness, brightening each bite.
• Parmesan cheese (or vegan alternative): A dusting of grated Parmesan cheese creates a rich finishing touch that enriches the overall flavor.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes before serving for an extra kick.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the leftover sauce, adding comforting flavors that pair beautifully with pasta.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil tossed in balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the ravioli sauce.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds crunch and color to your plate while providing nutrients—a great way to balance out the meal!
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens dressed in olive oil and lemon complements the heaviness of pasta, creating a delightful contrast.

Enjoy preparing your easy ravioli sauce and serving it with these delicious ideas!

Make Ahead and Storage

This easy ravioli sauce is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it, making your weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to keep it fresh and flavorful.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Let the sauce cool completely before sealing the container to prevent condensation.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the sauce to cool completely before freezing.
• Pour into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If the sauce is too thick after thawing, add a splash of chicken stock or water to reach your desired consistency.
• You can also reheat in the microwave. Heat in short intervals, stirring between each one for even warming.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe!

Can I make Easy Ravioli Sauce without chicken stock?

Yes! You can substitute with vegetable stock for a vegetarian option that still adds great flavor.

How do I thicken my Easy Ravioli Sauce if it’s too thin?

If your sauce is too thin, try simmering it uncovered for a few extra minutes. Alternatively, you can mix in a little cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) until it reaches your desired thickness.

Can I use this Easy Ravioli Sauce on other pasta dishes?

Absolutely! This versatile sauce pairs well with all types of pasta, not just ravioli. Feel free to get creative!

Final Thoughts

I hope this easy ravioli sauce brings joy and deliciousness to your dining table! Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a special addition to any meal. Enjoy making this recipe, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations with me. Happy cooking!