Easy Ravioli Sauce

If you’re looking for a quick and comforting meal, this Easy Ravioli Sauce is just what you need! It’s rich, creamy, and tomatoey—perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without the fuss. This sauce has become a beloved staple in my kitchen because it’s so versatile. Whether you’re serving it over your favorite ravioli or using it with another pasta, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.

What I love most about this recipe is how quickly it comes together—just 30 minutes from start to finish! That means more time to enjoy dinner with family or friends, making it ideal for gatherings or cozy nights in. Let me share why this easy ravioli sauce is bound to become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This sauce can be whipped up in just 30 minutes, making meal prep a breeze.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and rich flavor, even the pickiest eaters will love it!
• Versatile Use: Not only great with ravioli, but also perfect for any pasta dish you have in mind.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it for busy days.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create this delightful sauce. You might already have many of these items in your pantry!

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

One of the best things about this Easy Ravioli Sauce is its flexibility! Here are some fun variations to make it your own:

• Add some veggies: Toss in spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes for a little kick if you like things spicy!
• Creamy alternative: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream for a lighter version.
• Herb infusion: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can brighten up the sauce beautifully.

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 and cook for about 4-5 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. Sautéing the onions releases their natural sweetness, which makes the base of our sauce extra flavorful.

Step 2: Incorporate Tomato Paste

Next, stir in the tomato paste and cook for just one minute. This step deepens the tomato flavor and adds richness to your sauce.

Step 3: Build Flavor with Stock and Tomatoes

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

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Stir in the heavy cream and allow it to cook for another two minutes. This is where your Easy Ravioli Sauce transforms into a creamy delight! The cream adds a luscious texture that complements the acidity of the tomatoes perfectly.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Finally, serve your delicious sauce over cooked ravioli or any pasta of your choice. Enjoy every bite! This Easy Ravioli Sauce is sure to impress everyone around your dinner table.

Pro Tips for Making Easy Ravioli Sauce

Creating a delicious ravioli sauce at home is simple, and with a few helpful tips, you can elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions and garlic bring out the best flavors in your sauce. Opting for fresh over dried enhances the overall taste and aroma.

• Adjust the seasoning: Everyone’s taste buds are different! Always taste your sauce as it cooks and feel free to adjust the salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning to suit your preferences.

• Let it simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer longer melds the flavors beautifully. A good 20 minutes will develop a rich and complex taste.

• Blend for creaminess: If you prefer a smoother texture, consider blending the sauce briefly with an immersion blender before adding cream. This adds a velvety touch without sacrificing flavor.

• Make it ahead of time: This sauce keeps well in the fridge for up to a week or can be frozen for later use. Making it in advance means one less thing to worry about on busy nights!

How to Serve Easy Ravioli Sauce

Serving your easy ravioli sauce can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to help you present this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil not only adds a pop of color but also brings a refreshing flavor that complements the richness of the sauce.
• Parmesan cheese (or vegan alternative): Grated Parmesan cheese can add a lovely salty depth. If you’re avoiding dairy, there are some excellent vegan cheese options available that mimic the flavor beautifully.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top. It adds an exciting kick to each bite!

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Nothing pairs better with pasta than garlic bread! Its crunchy texture and buttery flavor make it perfect for sopping up any extra sauce.

• Mixed green salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette balances out the richness of the ravioli sauce while adding freshness.

• Steamed vegetables: Broccoli or asparagus lightly steamed can be a nutritious side that complements your meal without overshadowing the main dish.

• Risotto: For an indulgent twist, serve your ravioli alongside creamy risotto. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a comforting dining experience.

Enjoy this easy ravioli sauce with your favorite pasta or as a flavorful companion to various dishes. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This easy ravioli sauce is perfect for meal prep! It stores well and can be made ahead of time, allowing for quick weeknight dinners or lunch options. Here’s how to manage your leftovers effectively:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Divide the sauce into portion-sized containers or freezer bags.
• Make sure to remove excess air from bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or use the microwave for a quick thawing method.
• Reheat on medium heat in a saucepan until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken stock or water to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this easy ravioli sauce!

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

Absolutely! This easy ravioli sauce works wonderfully with any type of pasta. Just toss it with cooked noodles for a delicious meal.

How long can I store this Easy Ravioli Sauce?

You can store this easy ravioli sauce in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months. Perfect for meal prepping!

Can I substitute heavy cream in this recipe?

Yes! You can use a plant-based cream alternative if you prefer a non-dairy option, which will still provide a creamy texture.

What should I serve with this Easy Ravioli Sauce?

This sauce pairs beautifully with ravioli, but also goes great with spaghetti, penne, or even as a dipping sauce for breadsticks!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this easy ravioli sauce as much as I do! Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it truly special and versatile. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner or a quick lunch, this sauce is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations!