Name: Creamy Ravioli with Sun Dried Tomato Sauce in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 package Refrigerated Ravioli (fresh cheese ravioli); 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (or olive oil for a lighter touch); 3 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 small Shallot (diced); 3 tablespoons Tomato Paste (tube recommended); 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning (or dried herbs of choice); 0.25 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional); 3 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour (or gluten-free flour); 0.33 cup Dry White Wine (or extra chicken stock); 1.5 cups Chicken Stock (low-sodium recommended); 0.5 cup Heavy Cream (or half-and-half for lighter version); 0.5 cup Sun Dried Tomatoes (chopped, oil-packed preferred); Kosher Salt (to taste); Freshly Ground Black Pepper (to taste); 0.25 cup Parmesan (freshly grated); 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (chopped for garnish)

As I stirred the cream sauce simmering on the stove, the unmistakable fragrance of sun-dried tomatoes wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy Italian trattoria. This 30-Minute Creamy Ravioli with Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce has become a beloved favorite in my home—not just for its dreamy texture and delightful flavor, but also because it fits perfectly into our busy weeknight routine. Friends and family alike rave about how impressively quick it is to whip up, allowing us to enjoy a gourmet meal without hours in the kitchen. Plus, the recipe is wonderfully flexible, letting you customize it with whatever proteins or veggies you have on hand. Who’s ready to elevate their dinner game and indulge in something truly delicious tonight?

Why Is This Ravioli Recipe a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: Imagine serving up an extraordinary meal in just 30 minutes! This recipe is perfect for those hectic weeknights when you want something special without a long wait.

Versatility at Its Best: Feel free to customize with your favorite proteins or veggies. Whether you’re adding shrimp, spinach, or even grilled chicken, the options are endless!

Decadent Flavor: The sun-dried tomato cream sauce provides a rich, savory indulgence that will impress both your family and guests.

Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a gourmet experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. The dish not only nourishes but delights the senses!

Healthy Options Available: Want to lighten it up? Consider swapping in some leafy greens or opting for gluten-free pasta; this dish remains flexible and accommodating. Check out my recipe for Cream Cheese Corn as a side dish for a complementary flavor!

Ravioli with Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Ingredients

• To create this delightful meal, gather the following ingredients that perfectly complement the rich and creamy sauce!

For the Ravioli

Refrigerated Ravioli – Use fresh cheese ravioli for convenience and a soft base that complements the sauce.

For the Cream Sauce

Unsalted Butter – Adds a creamy richness; substitute with olive oil for a lighter touch.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Essential for flavor; fresh garlic is preferred for the best aroma.
Shallot (1 small, diced) – Enhances sweetness; an onion can be used as a substitute in a pinch.
Tomato Paste (3 tablespoons) – Provides a robust tomato flavor; a tube makes for easy measuring.
Italian Seasoning (2 teaspoons) – Offers essential herb flavor; feel free to swap with individual dried herbs.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (¼ teaspoon, optional) – Adds a touch of heat; omit for a milder dish, especially for kids.
All-Purpose Flour (3 tablespoons) – Serves as a thickener; use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
Dry White Wine (⅓ cup) – Infuses depth; select a wine you’ll enjoy drinking, or use extra chicken stock for a non-alcoholic option.
Chicken Stock (1½ cups) – Adds rich flavor to the sauce; low-sodium or homemade stock is best.
Heavy Cream (½ cup) – Contributes to the creaminess; for a lighter version, consider half-and-half.
Sun Dried Tomatoes (½ cup, chopped) – Key for flavor; choose oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for convenience.
Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste.
Parmesan (¼ cup, freshly grated) – Adds a delightful salty, nutty flavor; Pecorino Romano can be substituted.
Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped) – Enhances color and brightness as a garnish; basil can be a flavorful swap or omitted altogether.

With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to crafting a stunning Ravioli with Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce that will capture hearts and appetites!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ravioli with Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Ravioli
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Carefully add the refrigerated cheese ravioli and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 3–5 minutes, until they float and become tender. Once cooked, drain well in a colander and set aside, allowing the ravioli to await the creamy sauce.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted and bubbling, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and 1 small diced shallot, cooking for about 2 minutes until both are fragrant and the shallot becomes translucent. Stir occasionally, allowing the mixture to warm your kitchen with delicious aromas as you prepare the sun dried tomato cream sauce.

Step 3: Add Tomato Paste and Seasonings
Next, stir in 3 tablespoons of tomato paste along with 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning and ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes, if desired. Cook this mixture for about 1 minute until fragrant, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The vibrant colors and rich scent signal that it’s time to thicken up the sauce for your ravioli.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
Whisk in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, stirring continuously for about 1 minute until it is lightly browned and creates a roux. This step is crucial for achieving a creamy texture in your Ravioli with Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce. You’ll know it’s ready when the consistency thickens and starts to smell toasty.

Step 5: Deglaze with Wine
Pour in ⅓ cup of dry white wine to deglaze the skillet, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits stuck to the bottom. Allow the wine to simmer for about 2 minutes, letting it reduce slightly. This step adds depth of flavor to your sauce, creating a luxurious base for the ravioli to soak up.

Step 6: Simmer the Sauce
Add 1½ cups of chicken stock, ½ cup of heavy cream, and ½ cup of chopped sun dried tomatoes to the skillet. Season your sauce with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. The sauce will thicken slightly, becoming creamy and inviting.

Step 7: Incorporate the Ravioli
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in ¼ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the mixture. Then, gently fold in the cooked ravioli, ensuring each piece is coated with the creamy sun dried tomato sauce. Heat through for about 1–2 minutes, just until everything is warmed to perfection.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Dish out the ravioli onto plates and garnish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color. Serve your Ravioli with Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce immediately while it’s luxuriously creamy and warm, allowing everyone to enjoy the gourmet experience you’ve created in just 30 minutes!

Variations & Substitutions for Ravioli with Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

Feel free to personalize this recipe to suit your taste and pantry ingredients—let’s get creative in the kitchen!

Tortellini Twist: Swap in tortellini for a fun shape—this adds a delightful twist and keeps the dish exciting!
Vegetable Add-Ins: Incorporate seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition. They’ll brighten up your dish!
Protein Choices: Customize with cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or crumbled vegetarian sausage for a hearty meal that suits every diner. Each option brings its flavor to the table!
Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh basil or thyme instead of parsley for a fragrant twist that perfectly complements the creamy sauce.
Spicy Kick: Want some heat? Toss in a bit more crushed red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce for an extra zing!
Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a creamy, savory delight that’s dairy-free.
Gluten-Free Pasta: Swap regular ravioli for a gluten-free option to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions. You can enjoy creamy comfort without the gluten!
Add Leafy Greens: Sneak in some fresh spinach or kale while simmering for added nutrients and color; it’s a simple way to boost your meal’s health factor!

Don’t forget to balance your meal with a fresh side, like Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli, to complement the richness of the sauce!

Storage Tips for Ravioli with Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the sauce has cooled before sealing to preserve quality.

Freezer: Unfortunately, cream-based sauces do not freeze well and can separate upon thawing, so it’s best to enjoy this ravioli with sun dried tomato cream sauce fresh.

Reheating: When ready to reheat, warm the leftovers gently on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of chicken stock or cream to restore that creamy texture and prevent drying out.

Room Temperature: For safety, do not leave the ravioli out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

What to Serve with Ravioli with Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce?

Elevate your dining experience by complementing this rich dish with delightful sides and pairings that enhance its creamy flavor.

Italian Chopped Salad: A refreshing mix of crispy greens, tomatoes, olives, and mozzarella offers a crunchy contrast to the creamy sauce.
Easy Garlic Parmesan Knots: Soft, buttery knots are perfect for scooping up that luscious sauce while adding an irresistible garlicky flavor.
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: Nutty roasted broccoli drizzled with garlic and Parmesan balances the richness of the ravioli, creating a well-rounded meal.
Creamy Polenta: Silky polenta can serve as a delightful base, soaking up the sun dried tomato cream, adding an extra layer of indulgence to your plate.
Sparkling Wine: A chilled glass of sparkling white or Prosecco brightens the meal, cutting through the creaminess with its refreshing bubbles.
Lemon Sorbet: Cleanse your palate with a light, zesty lemon sorbet for dessert. Its brightness offers a perfect finish after the rich ravioli.
Sautéed Spinach: Tender spinach sautéed in olive oil rounds out the plate with a fresh, vibrant green element, adding nutrients and beautiful color.
Crusty Italian Bread: A warm loaf is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce, making it a comfort food staple to accompany your cherished meal.

Expert Tips for Ravioli with Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

Perfect Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your ravioli as they cook; overcooking can lead to mushy pasta. Aim for 3-5 minutes, depending on the brand.
Don’t Skip the Deglazing: Scraping up the brown bits after adding wine is essential for adding depth to your sun dried tomato cream sauce. Avoid the temptation to rush this step!
Custom Flavor Boost: For a richer taste, try incorporating some cooked Italian sausage or ground meats while sautéing the garlic and shallots. Your guests will love the enhanced flavor!
Thickening the Sauce: If your sauce isn’t thickening as desired, let it simmer a bit longer. A nice creamy texture is key to complementing the ravioli perfectly.
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh garlic and high-quality chicken stock makes all the difference in flavor. This small step can elevate your Ravioli with Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce to new heights!
Reheating Wisely: When reheating leftovers, do so gently on low heat and add a splash of chicken stock or cream to restore creaminess. Enjoy every last bite!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing the Ravioli with Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce in advance is a fantastic way to save time during busy weeknights! You can cook the ravioli and sauce separately up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the cooked ravioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and keep the cooled sauce in another container. To maintain quality, make sure the sauce is fully cooled before refrigerating to prevent condensation. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the sauce gently over low heat while adding the ravioli to warm through for about 1-2 minutes, ensuring a delicious, creamy meal with minimal effort!

Ravioli with Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe FAQs

What type of ravioli should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using fresh cheese ravioli for the best texture and flavor. If you’re looking for variety, feel free to swap in tortellini or mini ravioli for a delightful twist!

How long can I store leftovers?
You can store any leftovers of this delicious Ravioli with Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Just make sure the sauce has cooled before sealing to keep everything fresh.

Can I freeze this creamy sauce?
Unfortunately, cream-based sauces do not freeze well because they can separate upon thawing. It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, but if you have any leftover ravioli, you can freeze them separately for up to 3 months and make a fresh sauce later!

What if my sauce is too thin?
If your sauce isn’t thickening to your liking, let it simmer for a bit longer on low heat. You could also whisk in a bit more flour or cornstarch mixed with cold water to help achieve that creamy consistency you desire. Just make sure to simmer it for another minute or so to cook out any flour taste.

Are there any dietary considerations for this ravioli dish?
Absolutely! This recipe contains dairy due to the heavy cream and cheese. If you’re lactose intolerant or looking for a lighter version, consider using dairy-free alternatives, such as coconut cream, and vegan cheese. Always check the ravioli packaging for allergens if you have specific dietary restrictions.