Description
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Ravioli Sauce is a quick and easy Italian-inspired recipe that transforms any ravioli dish with its rich, velvety texture and aromatic garlic flavor. Ready in just 15 minutes, it combines butter, garlic, heavy cream, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a smooth, indulgent sauce perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Sauce
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (can use salted butter if needed)
- 3 cloves Minced Garlic (sauté until fragrant but do not brown)
- 1 cup Heavy Cream (for a lighter version, use half-and-half or low-fat milk)
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated is best for optimal melting)
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning (adjust based on personal taste)
- Salt, to taste (use sparingly as Parmesan can add saltiness)
- Pepper, to taste (essential for flavor enhancement)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Melt Butter: Melt unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring gently for about 2 minutes to avoid browning.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, approximately 1 minute, being careful not to burn it to maintain the delicate flavor.
- Add Heavy Cream: Pour in the heavy cream while stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat for about 2 minutes to slightly thicken the sauce.
- Incorporate Parmesan: Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until it is fully melted and the sauce is smooth, which should take about 3 minutes.
- Season Sauce: Stir in the Italian seasoning as well as salt and pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed to balance the flavors.
- Simmer Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly for a creamy consistency.
- Serve: Serve the sauce immediately over cooked ravioli, garnished with fresh parsley if desired, for an elegant and flavorful pasta dish.
Notes
- To reduce calories, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or low-fat milk, but note the sauce may be less rich.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and provides superior flavor compared to pre-grated varieties.
- Avoid browning the garlic to keep the sauce smooth and prevent a bitter taste.
- This sauce can be prepared in advance and gently reheated on low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to adjust consistency.
- Use fresh parsley as garnish to add a pop of color and fresh flavor to the dish.
