Cheese Ravioli with Brown Butter and Fresh Tomato Sauce
There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of cheese ravioli, especially when it’s enveloped in a rich brown butter sauce and topped with vibrant, fresh tomatoes. This dish not only celebrates the creamy filling of the ravioli but also highlights the natural sweetness of tomatoes, making it a delightful meal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a special dinner or a cozy weeknight meal, this Cheese Ravioli with Brown Butter and Fresh Tomato Sauce is sure to impress.
Why This Cheese Ravioli with Brown Butter and Fresh Tomato Sauce Stands Out
What sets this recipe apart is the combination of textures and flavors. The buttery, nutty notes from the browned butter contrast beautifully with the juicy burst of cherry tomatoes. When tossed with fresh basil and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, you’ll find that every bite is a wonderful balance of richness and freshness. It’s simple yet elegant, making it a perfect example of how a few quality ingredients can come together to create something spectacular.
The Ingredient Lineup
To make this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Two 9-ounce packages fresh ravioli: Cheese-filled ravioli works best for this recipe.
- 6 tablespoons (3/4 stick) salted butter: The star ingredient for the brown butter sauce.
- 2 cups cherry or pear tomatoes: Their sweetness adds a fresh burst of flavor.
- 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh basil: A fragrant herb that enhances the dish.
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: A delicious finishing touch that adds depth.
Gear Checklist
Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools:
- Large pot: For boiling the ravioli.
- Skillet: To prepare the brown butter sauce.
- Colander: For draining the ravioli.
- Cutting board and knife: To chop the basil and tomatoes.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Serving plates: To present your beautiful dish.
Cheese Ravioli with Brown Butter and Fresh Tomato Sauce, Made Easy
Creating this delightful dish is easier than you might think. Just follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Cook the Ravioli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the fresh ravioli and cook according to the package instructions, typically about 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the surface and are tender. Once cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the ravioli in a colander.
Step 2: Prepare the Brown Butter Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the salted butter. Continue to cook the butter, swirling the pan occasionally, until it turns a golden brown color and develops a nutty aroma. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to let it burn!
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes
Once the butter is browned, add the cherry or pear tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring gently, until the tomatoes start to soften and burst.
Step 4: Combine Ravioli and Sauce
Gently add the drained ravioli to the skillet with the brown butter and tomatoes. Toss to coat the ravioli in the sauce. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to create a silky texture.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped basil. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve the ravioli warm, topped with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Easy Ingredient Swaps
If you’re looking to customize this dish, here are a few ingredient swaps you might consider:
- Fresh ravioli can be substituted with frozen ravioli if fresh is unavailable.
- Use unsalted butter if you prefer to control the salt level.
- For a different flavor, try adding sautéed garlic or shallots to the butter sauce.
- Swap the cherry tomatoes for roasted or sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper flavor.
- Feel free to use any cheese that melts well in place of Parmesan, like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano.
Mistakes Even Pros Make
Even seasoned cooks can stumble when making this dish. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Overcooking the ravioli can lead to a mushy texture; keep an eye on the cooking time.
- Burning the butter can ruin the sauce; watch it closely and stir frequently.
- Not reserving enough pasta water; this can lead to a dry sauce.
- Forgetting to season the dish at the end can make it taste flat; always taste before serving!
Leftovers & Meal Prep
This dish is perfect for leftovers and meal prep!
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce. For meal prep, consider portioning out the cooked ravioli and sauce separately to keep them fresh and prevent the pasta from becoming too soggy.
Reader Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of ravioli?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you like, such as fettuccine or penne. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.
What can I add to make this dish more filling?
If you’d like to add more substance, consider including cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Cook the ravioli just before serving to ensure the best texture.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian! Just ensure that the cheese you use is also suitable for your dietary preferences.
Healthy-ish Favorites
If you’re looking for other recipes that are just as delightful, check out these healthy-ish favorites:
Time to Try It
Now that you have the complete guide for making Cheese Ravioli with Brown Butter and Fresh Tomato Sauce, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! This dish is not only quick and easy but also incredibly satisfying and packed with flavor. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy every cheesy, buttery bite!
Cheese Ravioli with Brown Butter and Fresh Tomato Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the fresh ravioli and cook according to the package instructions, typically about 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the surface and are tender. Once cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the ravioli in a colander.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the salted butter. Continue to cook the butter, swirling the pan occasionally, until it turns a golden brown color and develops a nutty aroma. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to let it burn!
- Once the butter is browned, add the cherry or pear tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring gently, until the tomatoes start to soften and burst.
- Gently add the drained ravioli to the skillet with the brown butter and tomatoes. Toss to coat the ravioli in the sauce. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to create a silky texture.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped basil. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve the ravioli warm, topped with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth.
- Use frozen ravioli if fresh is unavailable.
