If you have ever wished for a pasta dish that wraps you in richness with every bite, this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Ravioli Recipe is your dream come true. Picture pillowy ravioli bursting with flavor, swimming in a velvety sauce made from sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and Parmesan, all brought together by a touch of garlic and cream. It’s comfort food elevated with bright, tangy notes and a luscious texture that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking a quick weeknight dinner or impressing a special guest, this recipe promises to deliver pure joy with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Ravioli Recipe lies in its simplicity — every ingredient plays a vital role, bringing unique flavors and textures that transform a quick meal into something memorable.
- 9 oz ravioli: Fresh or frozen ravioli works perfectly; opt for cheese-filled for a classic experience or your favorite filling for a twist.
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped): These add a tangy, chewy burst of umami that deepens the sauce’s flavor.
- 2 cups fresh spinach: Fresh greens add color, nutrition, and a gentle earthy note that balances the richness.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The base of the sauce, creating that irresistible creamy texture we all crave.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic brings warmth and aroma, making each bite inviting and flavorful.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan melts into the sauce, offering a salty, nutty depth.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Used for sautéing, it adds richness and silkiness to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides a subtle fruity flavor and helps sauté the garlic evenly.
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional): A touch of heat for those who like a little kick without overpowering the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh, fragrant finish that brightens the dish visually and in flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing every element of the recipe.
How to Make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Ravioli Recipe
Step 1: Cook the ravioli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, and cook your ravioli according to the package instructions until just al dente. This means they still have a slight bite to them — perfect for soaking up all that creamy sauce without turning mushy. Once cooked, drain the ravioli carefully and set them aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the garlic
In a large skillet, warm the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and just starting to turn golden. This step is crucial because it releases the garlic’s nutty aroma, which forms the flavorful foundation of your sauce.
Step 3: Add sun-dried tomatoes
Now stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. This softens them slightly, coaxing out their concentrated flavors and infusing the oil and butter mixture with a rich, tangy sweetness that is simply irresistible.
Step 4: Create the creamy sauce
Pour in the heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Then add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly as it melts and thickens the sauce. You want a luscious, smooth texture that clings to every bite of ravioli, so take your time here—patience pays off deliciously.
Step 5: Wilt the spinach and season
Next, add in the fresh spinach and stir it until just wilted. This adds a fresh green contrast to the creamy sauce and packs in some nutrients. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and chili flakes if you’re using them. Adjusting these seasonings is where you tailor the dish to your personal taste — don’t be shy!
Step 6: Combine ravioli and sauce
Toss the cooked ravioli gently into the skillet, coating each piece in that gorgeous creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. Let everything simmer together for 1 to 2 minutes so the ravioli soak up some of the flavor and warm through perfectly.
Step 7: Serve and garnish
Serve immediately while warm and delicious. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese if desired, to add a final burst of freshness and savory delight. This last touch makes the dish look as good as it tastes and elevates it to a restaurant-worthy presentation.
How to Serve Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Ravioli Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves add a vibrant green pop to this creamy dish, while a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan cheese brings that salty, nutty charm right to the surface. You can also add a pinch of freshly ground black pepper or crushed red chili flakes for an added kick. These simple garnishes turn a humble plate into a feast for the eyes and palate.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or some crusty garlic bread that lets you scoop up every last bit of sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli offer a great textural contrast and keep the meal balanced and fresh.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling fancy, try serving this ravioli with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a handful of toasted pine nuts for crunch. Plating it in a shallow bowl instead of a plate helps hold the creamy sauce, making every forkful extra saucy and satisfying. You can even scatter edible flower petals on top for a stunning impression if you’re entertaining guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Ravioli Recipe is best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 2 days, though it’s best enjoyed fresh. Make sure to cool it before refrigeration to maintain the sauce’s texture.
Freezing
While fresh ravioli generally doesn’t freeze well after cooking because of texture changes, the sauce can be frozen separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy again, thaw the sauce overnight in the fridge and reheat gently before combining with freshly cooked ravioli.
Reheating
The best way to reheat is gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from separating. Add a splash of milk or cream if the sauce thickens too much. Avoid microwaving as it can cause the sauce to curdle and the ravioli to become rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil instead of dry ones?
Absolutely! Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil will actually add a bit more richness to the sauce. Just drain them well and chop before adding. You might want to reduce the olive oil slightly since these tomatoes bring extra oiliness.
What type of ravioli works best in this recipe?
Cheese-filled ravioli is classic and delicious here, but spinach and ricotta or mushroom ravioli can add interesting flavors. Just keep the fillings simple to let the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce shine.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a creamy plant-based alternative and use vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor. Use vegan butter or olive oil for sautéing to keep it plant-based.
How spicy is this recipe with chili flakes?
The optional chili flakes add just a gentle warmth, not overwhelming heat. You can adjust the amount or omit them entirely if you prefer a milder dish. The cream helps balance any spiciness nicely.
Is it necessary to use fresh spinach, or can I use frozen?
Fresh spinach works best for color and texture, wilting quickly into the sauce. If using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw and drain it very well to prevent extra water from diluting your creamy sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Ravioli Recipe is a total winner when you want something quick, elegant, and utterly satisfying. The combination of tangy sun-dried tomatoes and luscious cream sauce with tender ravioli feels indulgent without being complicated. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience all those flavors coming together in one beautiful dish that feels like a little celebration at your dinner table.
Print
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Ravioli Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Ravioli is a quick and delicious Italian-inspired dish featuring tender ravioli tossed in a rich and velvety sun-dried tomato cream sauce with garlic, spinach, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a cozy dinner, it delivers a burst of flavor with a hint of spice from chili flakes and a fresh finish with basil garnish.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 9 oz ravioli (fresh or frozen)
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the ravioli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ravioli and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually about 3-5 minutes. Drain the ravioli and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned, to develop the base of the sauce.
- Cook sun-dried tomatoes: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2–3 minutes to soften and release their flavors.
- Make the cream sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir continuously until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
- Add spinach and season: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and stir until the spinach wilts completely. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and chili flakes to taste.
- Combine ravioli and sauce: Add the cooked ravioli to the skillet. Gently toss to coat the ravioli in the creamy sauce. Continue to simmer for 1–2 minutes until the ravioli are heated through.
- Serve: Serve the ravioli immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese if desired for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- You can use either fresh or frozen ravioli; cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type.
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of chili flakes or add red pepper flakes.
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a slightly lighter sauce, though it will be less rich.
- Make sure not to overcook the ravioli to avoid them becoming too soft or mushy.
- Adding fresh basil at the end enhances freshness and aroma but can be omitted if unavailable.
