Easy Ravioli Sauce

This easy ravioli sauce is a delightful blend of rich, creamy flavors that come together in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this sauce complements not only ravioli but also any pasta dish you desire. With its tomatoey base and hints of Italian seasoning, it’s sure to impress everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This sauce can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a fast weeknight meal.
• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of tomato paste, chicken stock, and cream creates a deep, satisfying flavor that elevates any pasta dish.
• Versatile Use: While it’s fantastic with ravioli, this sauce works well with all types of pasta and even as a base for casseroles.
• Minimal Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up this sauce anytime without the need for complicated shopping.
• Creamy Texture: The addition of heavy cream gives the sauce a luscious texture that is both comforting and indulgent.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to create your easy ravioli sauce.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium pot: Essential for cooking your sauce evenly and allowing the flavors to develop.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients like onions and garlic efficiently.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes quick work of dicing vegetables, ensuring uniform cooking.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring sauces without scratching your cookware, promoting even consistency.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium onion (finely diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

Tomato Components

• 1/3 cup tomato paste
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken stock
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes

Seasoning & Cream

• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/3 cup heavy cream

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 finely diced onions and minced garlic.
* Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.

Step 2: Add Tomato Paste

Once the onions are ready:
* Stir in the tomato paste.
* Cook for an additional minute to deepen the flavor.

Step 3: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Next, add the remaining ingredients to create the sauce:
* Pour in the chicken stock and diced tomatoes.
* Add sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, and ground black pepper.
* Bring everything to a boil before reducing to a simmer. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes.

Step 4: Finish with Cream

After simmering:
* Stir in the heavy cream.
* Allow it to cook for another 2 minutes to meld all flavors together.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your easy ravioli sauce over cooked ravioli or your favorite pasta. Enjoy this delightful dish with family or friends!

How to Serve Easy Ravioli Sauce

This easy ravioli sauce is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether with your favorite pasta or as a base for other dishes, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal.

With Fresh Ravioli

• Serve the sauce over cooked ravioli to enjoy a classic dish. Top with grated cheese for added flavor.

As a Pasta Sauce

• Use this easy ravioli sauce with any pasta shape. It pairs beautifully with spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine.

With Grilled Chicken

• Drizzle the sauce over grilled chicken breasts for a creamy and savory twist. It adds depth to the dish.

In a Pasta Bake

• Mix the sauce with cooked pasta and cheese, then bake until bubbly for a delicious pasta bake.

As a Pizza Sauce

• Spread the sauce on pizza dough instead of traditional tomato sauce. Top with your favorite toppings for a unique pizza experience.

For Dipping Breadsticks

• Serve the easy ravioli sauce as a warm dip for breadsticks or garlic bread. It’s perfect for appetizers.

How to Perfect Easy Ravioli Sauce

Creating the perfect easy ravioli sauce is simple with these tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions and garlic elevate the flavor profile significantly compared to dried versions.
• Balance Acid and Sweetness: Adjust sugar levels based on your tomatoes’ acidity for optimal balance.
• Experiment with Spices: Add red pepper flakes for heat or fresh herbs like basil for an aromatic touch.
• Blend for Smoothness: For an ultra-creamy texture, blend the sauce before adding cream, ensuring it’s silky smooth.
• Adjust Consistency: If too thick, add more chicken stock; if too thin, simmer longer to thicken.
• Let It Rest: Allow the sauce to sit for a few minutes after cooking; this helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Ravioli Sauce

Pairing side dishes with easy ravioli sauce can elevate your meal. Here are some delightful options that complement its rich flavors.

1. Garlic Bread
   This classic side is perfect for soaking up every drop of delicious sauce. Toasted baguette slices work beautifully.

2. Caesar Salad
   A crisp Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce. The crunchiness of romaine is delightful.

3. Steamed Vegetables
   Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition while balancing out the richness of the sauce.

4. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil create a light and flavorful side that complements the dish well.

5. Roasted Asparagus
   Roasted asparagus spears seasoned simply bring out earthy flavors that pair nicely with rich sauces like this one.

6. Focaccia Bread
   Soft and flavorful focaccia makes an excellent accompaniment, perfect for dipping into the easy ravioli sauce.

7. Zucchini Noodles
   For a lighter option, serve zucchini noodles alongside ravioli topped with this rich sauce—a delicious twist!

8. Quinoa Salad
   A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with vegetables provides protein and fiber while balancing out your meal’s richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you create the perfect easy ravioli sauce. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Skipping the onion and garlic: These ingredients add essential flavor. Always sauté them until soft for a rich base.
• Using low-quality tomatoes: The quality of diced tomatoes affects the sauce’s taste. Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes for the best results.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season adequately can result in a bland sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust salt and spices as needed.
• Overcooking the cream: Adding heavy cream too soon or cooking it too long can curdle it. Stir it in towards the end and keep the heat low.
• Not letting it simmer: Quick cooking can lead to an underdeveloped flavor. Allow the sauce to simmer to meld all the ingredients together.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store easy ravioli sauce in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
• Let the sauce cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Easy Ravioli Sauce

• Portion out the sauce into freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Easy Ravioli Sauce

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until warm, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until heated through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Easy Ravioli Sauce?

Easy ravioli sauce is a creamy, tomato-based sauce perfect for dressing ravioli or other pasta dishes. It’s quick and flavorful, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Can I customize Easy Ravioli Sauce?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or include protein such as chicken or turkey. Adjust spices according to your preference for extra flavor.

How do I make Easy Ravioli Sauce vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative. Ensure all other ingredients are also plant-based.

How long does Easy Ravioli Sauce last in the fridge?

The easy ravioli sauce lasts up to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

This easy ravioli sauce is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough to complement various pasta types beyond just ravioli. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins for added flavor and nutrition. We encourage you to try this delicious recipe and enjoy its creamy richness!