Easy Ravioli Sauce

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious sauce that will elevate your pasta dishes, then this Easy Ravioli Sauce is just what you need! It’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. What I love most about this recipe is how effortlessly it comes together in just 30 minutes. It’s the kind of meal that transforms a simple dinner into something special without much fuss.

This sauce not only pairs beautifully with ravioli but works wonders with other pasta too! Whether you’re whipping up a cozy dinner for two or feeding a crowd, this Easy Ravioli Sauce will surely impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious sauce ready to go!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike can’t resist the creamy, tomato goodness.
• Versatile: Perfect for ravioli but also great on any pasta you have on hand.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Simple ingredients lead to a rich and satisfying dish.
• Make-Ahead Option: Leftovers store well in the fridge for another easy meal!

Ingredients You’ll Need

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

One of the best things about this Easy Ravioli Sauce is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these tasty variations:

• Add Vegetables: Toss in some spinach or mushrooms for added nutrients and flavor.
• Spice It Up: If you like a kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while simmering.
• Go Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a lighter option.
• Swap the Stock: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian-friendly version.

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 them for 4-5 minutes until they become soft and translucent. This step is important because sautéing the onions enhances their sweetness and adds depth to your sauce.

Step 2: Incorporate Tomato Paste

Next, stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for about 1 minute. This helps deepen its flavor and gives your sauce that beautiful rich color.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Add 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 for 15-20 minutes so all those flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Cream It Up!

Finally, stir in the heavy cream and let it cook for an additional 2 minutes. This will give your sauce that creamy texture that makes it oh-so-delicious!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Easy Ravioli Sauce over freshly cooked ravioli or whatever pasta you choose. Enjoy every bite of this warm and comforting dish!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Ravioli Sauce

Making this easy ravioli sauce is a breeze, but a few tips can take your sauce from good to fantastic!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions and garlic can significantly enhance the flavor of your sauce, making it taste more vibrant and homemade.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to tweak the salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning to suit your preferences. This allows you to create a sauce that feels just right for you.

• Simmer longer for depth: If time allows, let your sauce simmer a bit longer than the suggested time. This extra simmering helps the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a richer taste.

• Experiment with cream alternatives: If you’re looking for a lighter option or have dietary restrictions, try substituting heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream. Both options add creaminess without sacrificing flavor.

• Make it ahead: This sauce keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months. Making it ahead saves time on busy nights and allows the flavors to deepen even more.

How to Serve Easy Ravioli Sauce

This easy ravioli sauce is not only delicious with ravioli but also versatile enough to enhance many dishes. Here are some fun ideas on how to present your dish beautifully!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil: A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors of the sauce.
• Parmesan cheese: Grated dairy-free Parmesan gives an irresistible cheesy finish that elevates every bite.
• Red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, a dash of red pepper flakes can add excitement and warmth to the dish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A classic accompaniment, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. Its crispy texture and buttery flavor make every meal feel special.

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a nutritious contrast to the creamy sauce. The bright green color adds visual appeal as well!

• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides balance to the meal while adding crunch and freshness.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus are not only healthy but also bring out natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with tomato-based sauces.

With these serving tips and garnishes in mind, you’re all set to enjoy your easy ravioli sauce in style! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This easy ravioli sauce is perfect for meal prep, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights. You can whip up a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week or save some for later!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing it in the container.

Freezing

• To freeze, pour the cooled sauce into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• For easier use, consider freezing in individual portions.

Reheating

• To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave for quick reheating.
• Heat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If the sauce thickens too much after freezing, add a splash of chicken stock or cream to loosen it up.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make this Easy Ravioli Sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! This sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge or freezer. Just follow our storage tips above to keep it fresh.

What can I serve with Easy Ravioli Sauce?

This versatile sauce pairs beautifully with any type of pasta, not just ravioli. You can also use it as a base for casseroles or even as a dipping sauce for breadsticks!

How can I adjust the thickness of my Easy Ravioli Sauce?

If you find your sauce too thick, simply add a bit more chicken stock or cream while reheating until you reach your desired consistency.

Is there a vegan substitute for heavy cream in Easy Ravioli Sauce?

Yes! You can replace heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free version without compromising flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Easy Ravioli Sauce as delightful and comforting as I do! It’s quick to prepare but packed with flavor, making it a staple in my kitchen. Enjoy making this recipe and feel free to get creative with your favorite pasta dishes. Happy cooking!