Creamy Tuscan Ravioli
Paul, AI Chef
Indulge in rich and flavorful Creamy Tuscan Ravioli with garlic parmesan sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach for a quick and comforting Italian dinner!
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 35 minutes mins
Course Main Dish
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 people
Calories 450 kcal
For the Ravioli & Sauce:
- 1 lb cheese or meat-filled ravioli – Fresh or frozen both work perfectly.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic minced – For that irresistible garlic parmesan aroma.
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped – Infuses the sauce with a tangy, slightly sweet depth.
- 2 cups baby spinach – Wilts beautifully into the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream – The secret to a silky restaurant-style texture.
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese – Adds a bold nutty richness.
- ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth – Helps balance and thin the sauce to perfection.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning – A blend of oregano basil, and thyme for an authentic Tuscan touch.
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional – A subtle kick of heat for extra flavor.
- Salt & black pepper to taste
For Garnishing (Optional but Recommended!):
- Extra parmesan cheese – Because more cheese is always a good idea.
- Fresh basil or parsley – A pop of color and freshness.
- A drizzle of olive oil – Enhances the creamy glossy finish.
Cook the Ravioli
Boil the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it's boiling, drop in your ravioli and cook according to the package instructions (usually 3-4 minutes for fresh ravioli or 5-7 minutes for frozen).
Drain and set aside: Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water just in case you need it to adjust the sauce later. Then, drain the ravioli and set it aside.
Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant (but not browned).
Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Their tangy, slightly sweet flavor will blend perfectly into the sauce, giving it that signature Tuscan taste.
Prepare the Creamy Sauce
Add the spinach to the skillet and cook until it wilts—about 2 minutes.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let it come to a simmer, and watch the sauce begin to thicken.
Season with Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat). Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until it reaches a creamy consistency.
Combine Ravioli with Sauce
Gently add the cooked ravioli into the skillet, carefully tossing it in the creamy sauce to coat each piece evenly.
Add parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring it in until the cheese melts and creates a velvety smooth texture. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add a bit of the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Finish and Serve
Once the ravioli is fully coated and heated through, give it a final taste. Adjust the seasoning with a pinch more salt or pepper if necessary.
Serve immediately, topping with a sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese, fresh basil or parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil for that glossy, restaurant-quality finish.
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Protein: 12g
- Vitamin A: 25% DV
- Vitamin C: 20% DV
- Calcium: 15% DV
- Iron: 10% DV