Easy Ravioli Sauce

This Easy Ravioli Sauce is a delightful blend of rich flavors that can elevate any pasta dish. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. The creamy tomato base makes it versatile for ravioli and other pasta varieties. Once you try this sauce, it will undoubtedly become a go-to in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, this sauce is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of tomato paste and diced tomatoes creates a deep, satisfying taste.
• Versatile Use: While ideal for ravioli, this sauce pairs well with any pasta type or even as a dipping sauce for breadsticks.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday pantry staples, you can whip it up without any fuss.
• Creamy Texture: The addition of heavy cream gives this sauce a luscious consistency that coats pasta beautifully.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making this easy ravioli sauce, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium pot
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium pot: Essential for simmering the sauce evenly and preventing spills.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware and provides better control while cooking.

Ingredients

To make this easy ravioli sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:

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

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 the onions are soft and translucent.

Step 2: Add Tomato Paste

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional minute to enhance its flavor.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the chicken stock, diced tomatoes, sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Bring everything to a boil. Then reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes.

Step 4: Stir in Cream

Once the sauce has thickened slightly, stir in the heavy cream. Cook for another 2 minutes until warmed through.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve your delicious easy ravioli sauce over freshly cooked ravioli or your favorite pasta. Enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Ravioli Sauce

This easy ravioli sauce is incredibly versatile and can elevate many dishes. Here are some delightful ways to serve it for a satisfying meal.

With Fresh Ravioli

• Use store-bought or homemade ravioli filled with your choice of cheese or vegetables. The creamy sauce will complement the flavors beautifully.

Over Pasta

• This sauce pairs well with any pasta shape, such as penne, fettuccine, or farfalle. Simply toss the cooked pasta in the sauce for a quick and delicious dinner.

As a Pizza Base

• Spread this easy ravioli sauce on your pizza dough instead of traditional tomato sauce. Top with your favorite ingredients and bake for a unique twist on pizza night.

Stuffed Peppers

• Use the sauce as a delicious base for stuffed peppers. Mix it with quinoa or rice and fill halved bell peppers before baking for a hearty meal.

How to Perfect Easy Ravioli Sauce

To ensure your easy ravioli sauce turns out perfectly every time, keep these simple tips in mind.

• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and onions for the best flavor in your sauce.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or sugar according to your preference.
• Simmer longer: For more depth of flavor, let the sauce simmer longer than 20 minutes.
• Experiment with herbs: Try adding fresh basil or parsley at the end for an extra burst of freshness.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative if desired.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Ravioli Sauce

Pairing side dishes with your easy ravioli sauce can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread brushed with garlic butter makes for a classic pairing that’s perfect for soaking up the sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds a refreshing crunch that complements the creaminess of the ravioli sauce.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides vibrant color and nutrients alongside your rich pasta dish.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring earthy flavors that balance well with the creamy sauce.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar add brightness to your plate.
6. Pasta Primavera: A blend of sautéed seasonal vegetables tossed with olive oil enhances both taste and nutrition in your meal.
7. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables offers various textures and flavors to enjoy before diving into the main course.
8. Mixed Greens Salad: A light mixed greens salad dressed with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the ravioli sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To create the perfect easy ravioli sauce, be mindful of these common mistakes.

• Skipping the onion and garlic: These aromatics add depth to the flavor. Always sauté them until soft for a richer sauce.
• Using low-quality tomato products: The quality of your tomatoes affects the sauce’s overall taste. Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes or fresh ones when possible.
• Not simmering long enough: A quick cook won’t develop flavors fully. Let your sauce simmer for at least 15-20 minutes for the best results.
• Overcooking the cream: Adding cream too early can lead to curdling. Stir it in at the end and heat gently to keep it smooth and creamy.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Taste your sauce while cooking. Adjust salt, pepper, and sugar as needed to balance flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Easy Ravioli Sauce

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Ravioli Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in a covered dish, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about easy ravioli sauce.

What is an easy ravioli sauce made of?

An easy ravioli sauce typically includes olive oil, onions, garlic, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, chicken stock, sugar, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and cream.

Can I customize my easy ravioli sauce?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms or switch up the seasonings based on your preference.

How can I make my easy ravioli sauce healthier?

Consider using less cream or substituting it with a plant-based alternative. You can also increase the vegetable content for added nutrition.

How do I thicken my easy ravioli sauce?

If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer longer to reduce it or add a touch of cornstarch mixed with water as a thickener.

Can I use this sauce for other pasta dishes?

Yes! This easy ravioli sauce is versatile and pairs well with any type of pasta, not just ravioli.

Final Thoughts

This easy ravioli sauce is rich and flavorful while being quick to prepare. Its creamy texture complements various pasta dishes perfectly. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or serve it alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. Try making this delicious sauce tonight!