Butternut squash ravioli is a delightful twist on traditional pasta, combining the sweet, nutty flavor of roasted butternut squash with silky pasta dough. This dish not only captures the essence of fall but also provides a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a main dish or a side, these ravioli are sure to impress your family and friends with their vibrant color and rich flavor.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this butternut squash ravioli recipe for its incredible depth of flavor and versatility. The natural sweetness of the squash pairs beautifully with a hint of sage and nutmeg, creating a warm and inviting dish. Plus, it’s relatively easy to make, making it suitable for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, fitting perfectly into a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing taste. The chance to impress your guests with homemade pasta also adds to its charm!
Tips and Tricks
To make your butternut squash ravioli experience smoother, consider roasting the squash ahead of time to save on prep. Use a fork to mash the roasted squash with ricotta cheese and spices until smooth for a creamy filling. If you’re short on time, store-bought wonton wrappers can replace homemade pasta dough—just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. For extra flavor, brown the butter before pouring it over the cooked ravioli to add a nutty aroma.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the ravioli; they only need about 3-5 minutes in boiling water. Keep an eye on them, as fresh pasta cooks much faster than dried. Another common mistake is not sealing the ravioli properly, which can lead to the filling leaking out during cooking. Make sure to press out any air pockets and seal the edges tightly. Lastly, don’t skip seasoning your filling; a pinch of salt can make all the difference in enhancing the flavors.
Make Ahead Tips
For busy cooks, you can prepare the filling and pasta dough a day in advance. Store the filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and keep the pasta dough wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. You can also freeze the assembled ravioli; just layer them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer and are great for quick meals later.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to experiment with the filling! Try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a different flavor profile. You can also spice it up by incorporating feta cheese or a sprinkle of Parmesan into the filling. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta dough. If you want to go vegan, substitute the cheese with a cashew cream or a tofu ricotta blend.
How to Serve
Serve your butternut squash ravioli drizzled with brown butter and garnished with crispy sage leaves for an elegant touch. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or pecorino cheese will elevate the dish even further. Pair it with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the ravioli.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly chilled Pinot Grigio complements the flavors beautifully. If you prefer cocktails, a gin and tonic with a twist of lime would be refreshing. For dessert, consider serving a light apple tart or pumpkin pie to maintain the seasonal theme.
How to Store
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will keep well for 3-4 days. You can also freeze the cooked ravioli; just ensure they are cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, simply boil in water for a minute or two or warm them gently in a skillet over medium heat.
Equipment Needed
You will need a rolling pin or a pasta machine to roll out the dough, a sharp knife or pastry cutter to cut the ravioli, and a large pot for boiling. If you have a ravioli stamp, it can help shape and seal your pasta more easily. A baking sheet lined with parchment paper is also helpful for freezing the ravioli before cooking.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the ricotta with a plant-based cheese or a homemade cashew cheese. For those avoiding gluten, use gluten-free flour for the pasta dough. Make sure to check labels for any pre-made ingredients like pasta wrappers to ensure they fit your dietary needs.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the fall, the butternut squash is at its peak, but in spring or summer, consider using zucchini or sweet potatoes for a lighter filling. Fresh herbs like basil or mint can also brighten the dish in warmer months, making it a refreshing option.
Cost Breakdown
The estimated cost for this dish is around $12-15 for about four servings. However, by using seasonal squash and substituting store-bought pasta, you can keep costs down. Buying ingredients in bulk or at local farmers’ markets can also help reduce the overall price.
Kitchen Hacks
To save time peeling butternut squash, poke holes in it and microwave for a few minutes to soften the skin, making it easier to peel. Use a food processor to quickly mash the filling after roasting the squash instead of doing it by hand. If you don’t have a pasta machine, roll the dough as thin as possible with a rolling pin; it might take longer, but it’s equally effective!
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen butternut squash? Yes, frozen squash can be a time-saver. Just thaw it and drain excess moisture before mixing with the cheese.
- What can I use instead of ricotta? Cream cheese or mascarpone work well, or you can opt for a vegan alternative.
- How do I know when the ravioli are done? They will float to the top of the boiling water when cooked; allow them to simmer for an additional minute once they float.
How To Make butternut squash ravioli recipe
Butternut Squash Ravioli
Butternut squash ravioli is a delightful twist on traditional pasta, combining the sweet, nutty flavor of roasted butternut squash with silky pasta dough.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 package of fresh pasta dough (or homemade)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- Fresh sage leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the butternut squash in half, scoop out the seeds, and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Roast for 30-40 minutes until tender.
- Once cooked, scoop the flesh into a mixing bowl and mash until smooth. Stir in ricotta, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Roll out your pasta dough to your desired thickness or use store-bought pasta sheets. Cut the dough into squares or circles, placing a teaspoon of filling in the center of each piece
- Fold the dough over the filling to create a pocket, pressing to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a better seal.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ravioli in batches for about 3-5 minutes, until they float to the surface.
- In a skillet, melt butter and add sage leaves, cooking until the butter is browned and fragrant.
- Drain the ravioli and toss them gently in the skillet with the brown butter and sage. Serve immediately.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 456Total Fat 32gSaturated Fat 19gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 11gCholesterol 114mgSodium 565mgCarbohydrates 28gFiber 2gSugar 1gProtein 15g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Butternut squash ravioli is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that celebrates the flavors of the season. With a little patience and creativity, you can create a stunning dish that brings warmth and joy to your dining table. Whether you make it for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the process and savor each delicious bite!
