If you love pasta and are looking for a delightful dish to impress your family or friends, this cheese ravioli recipe is the perfect choice. Homemade ravioli brings a comforting touch to any meal and offers endless opportunities for customization. Imagine delicate pockets of dough filled with creamy ricotta and mozzarella cheeses, perfectly complemented by your favorite sauce. Making cheese ravioli at home may seem daunting at first, but with this straightforward approach, youโll find it more accessible than ever. Follow along as we guide you step-by-step through the process of crafting these delicious little parcels of joy. In just over an hour, you will have a beautiful plate of fresh cheese ravioli ready to serve, whether itโs for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. Get ready to delight your taste buds with this scrumptious dish that is sure to become a family favorite!
Why Youโll Love This cheese ravioli recipe
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinner
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Ingredients for cheese ravioli recipe
Hereโs what youโll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for the best texture in your pasta dough.
- Ricotta Cheese: Opt for whole milk ricotta for creaminess; itโs the star filling in your ravioli.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella adds melty goodness; fresh mozzarella works beautifully too.
- Eggs: Large eggs help bind the pasta dough while enriching its flavor.
- Salt: A pinch enhances the overall taste of both the dough and the filling.
For the Sauce:
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil to add richness to your sauce.
- Fresh Basil: Chopped fresh basil elevates flavor; substitute dried if necessary.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make cheese ravioli recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and crack in the eggs. Gradually mix until a shaggy dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 5-10 minutes until smooth.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In another bowl, mix ricotta cheese and shredded mozzarella until well combined. Add salt and pepper to taste. For added flavor, sprinkle in some grated Parmesan or nutmeg if desired.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Divide the dough into quarters; keep unused portions covered. Roll out one piece into thin sheets using a pasta machine or rolling pin until itโs about paper-thin.
Step 4: Form Ravioli
Spoon small dollops of filling onto one half of the rolled-out dough. Fold over the other half to cover each dollop, pressing out air pockets. Use a knife or pastry cutter to cut out individual ravioli shapes.
Step 5: Cook the Ravioli
Bring salted water to boil in a large pot. Gently drop in prepared ravioli and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they float; theyโre done when they rise.
Step 6: Serve with Sauce
In a skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil and sautรฉ garlic briefly before adding fresh basil and cooked ravioli. Toss gently until well coated before serving.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Pasta Resting Time: Allow dough to rest covered after kneading; it helps relax gluten fibers.
- Freezing Ravioli: If making ahead of time, freeze uncooked ravioli on baking sheets before transferring them into bags.
How to Serve cheese ravioli recipe
This cheese ravioli recipe is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the filling for your cheese ravioli up to two days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also make the pasta dough a day prior; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This will save you prep time on your cooking day.
- Storing: Leftover cheese ravioli should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to store them longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
- Reheating: To reheat refrigerated cheese ravioli, warm them gently in boiling water for about two minutes. For frozen ravioli, cook directly from frozen for about four to six minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet with some sauce over medium heat until warmed through.
Suggestions for cheese ravioli recipe:
Use Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh, high-quality ingredients is crucial when making a delicious cheese ravioli recipe. Fresh pasta flour and organic eggs will elevate the taste significantly. Avoid pre-packaged or frozen ingredients as they can compromise the flavor and texture of your dish. Always choose fresh cheeses such as ricotta or mozzarella for stuffing, as they provide a creamier and more flavorful filling. Additionally, fresh herbs like basil or parsley can enhance the overall taste. Remember, the quality of your ingredients directly impacts the final dish, so invest in fresh produce and cheeses to create an authentic ravioli experience.
Donโt Overstuff the Ravioli
One common mistake in preparing a cheese ravioli recipe is overstuffing the pasta. While it may be tempting to add generous amounts of filling for extra flavor, it can lead to problems during cooking. Overstuffed ravioli are prone to bursting while boiling, which results in lost filling and a mess in the pot. To avoid this issue, use just enough filling to cover the center of each pasta square without overflowing. A good rule of thumb is to use about one tablespoon of filling per ravioli. This ensures a well-balanced bite and maintains the integrity of each piece during cooking.
Ensure Proper Sealing
Properly sealing your ravioli is essential for a successful cheese ravioli recipe. If the edges are not sealed well, water can seep in during cooking, causing them to fall apart. To achieve a good seal, lightly moisten the edges of your pasta with water before folding them over the filling. Press firmly along the edges to remove any air pockets and ensure they stick together. You can also crimp the edges with a fork for extra security and decorative appeal. Taking these steps will help ensure that your ravioli hold their shape and remain intact throughout the cooking process.
Cook Ravioli Gently
Cooking your cheese ravioli recipe requires gentle handling to preserve their delicate nature. Boiling them too vigorously can cause breakage or uneven cooking. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil. Once you add the ravioli, stir gently to prevent them from sticking together or clinging to the bottom of the pot. Cooking time usually ranges from 3-5 minutes, depending on whether youโre using fresh or frozen pasta. Keep an eye on them until they float to the surface; thatโs your cue that theyโre done.
FAQs:
What types of cheese are best for cheese ravioli?
When crafting your ideal cheese ravioli recipe, selecting the right cheeses is vital for achieving richness and flavor in your filling. Popular choices include ricotta due to its creamy texture and mild taste, mozzarella which adds stretchiness, and Parmesan for a salty kick. Some recipes even blend these cheeses with herbs or spinach for added depth. Experimenting with combinations can yield delightful variations! Just remember that using fresh cheeses will significantly improve your dish compared to processed options.
How do I store leftover cheese ravioli?
Storing leftover cheese ravioli properly ensures you enjoy it later without compromising its quality. First, allow any cooked ravioli to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator; this prevents moisture buildup that could make them soggy. They typically last 3-4 days when stored correctly in cold storage. If youโve made extra uncooked ravioli, consider freezing them instead by placing them on a baking sheet until firm before transferring them into freezer bags; this helps prevent sticking!
Can I make cheese ravioli ahead of time?
Yes! Preparing your cheese ravioli ahead of time can save you effort on busy days while still delivering homemade goodness at mealtime. You have two main options: you can either prepare uncooked ravioli and freeze them for future use or cook them and refrigerate leftovers for quick meals later on. If freezing, ensure they are properly sealed in airtight bags after initial freezing on sheets to avoid clumping togetherโthis way, youโll have fresh-tasting pasta ready whenever you crave it!
What sauce pairs well with cheese ravioli?
Choosing a delicious sauce enhances any cheese ravioli recipe significantly! Classic pairings include marinara or tomato-based sauces that complement cheesy fillings beautifully while adding acidity balance to rich flavors. Alternatively, a light garlic butter sauce provides subtlety without overpowering your dish; finish it off with freshly grated Parmesan! For something unique, consider using pesto made from basil or sun-dried tomatoesโboth offer vibrant tastes that elevate your homemade creation!
Conclusion
In summary, mastering a delightful cheese ravioli recipe involves careful attention to detail at every stageโfrom selecting fresh ingredients and ensuring proper sealing techniques to avoiding overstuffing each piece carefully cooked in gently simmering water. By adhering closely to these tips and suggestions outlined above while experimenting with various fillings and sauces, youโll create mouthwatering dishes that impress family members and guests alike! Remember that practice makes perfect; donโt hesitate to refine your technique over time as you gain confidence in making homemade cheese-filled delights! Enjoy every step of this culinary journey!

Cheese Ravioli Recipe
- Author: Cecilia
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of homemade cheese ravioli, a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. This easy recipe features delicate pasta pockets stuffed with a creamy blend of ricotta and mozzarella cheeses. Topped with a simple yet flavorful sauce, each bite is a harmony of textures and tastes that will impress your family and friends. With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, making fresh cheese-filled pasta at home has never been easier. Whether youโre preparing for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this cheese ravioli recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ยฝ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt to taste
- Olive oil for sauce
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the dough by mixing flour and salt in a bowl. Create a well, add the egg, and knead until smooth. Let rest for 30 minutes.
- For the filling, combine ricotta, mozzarella, and salt in a bowl.
- Roll out the dough into thin sheets. Place small dollops of filling on one half, fold over the dough, seal edges firmly to form ravioli.
- Cook ravioli in boiling salted water for 3-4 minutes until they float.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sautรฉ garlic; toss cooked ravioli with sauce before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 ravioli (150g)
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For variations, try adding spinach or herbs to the cheese filling. Ensure proper sealing of ravioli to prevent bursting during cooking. Freeze uncooked ravioli on baking sheets before transferring to bags for later use.