Description
Garlic Butter Ravioli with Spinach & Mushrooms
Ingredients
1 package (10 oz) cheese or spinach ravioli
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
2 cups fresh spinach
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Cook the Ravioli: Boil ravioli according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Mushrooms: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add garlic and mushrooms, sautéing until mushrooms are golden brown.
Add Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking until the spinach wilts.
Make the Sauce: Pour in broth and add red pepper flakes, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper.
Toss the Ravioli: Add cooked ravioli to the skillet, gently tossing to coat in the garlic butter sauce.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 350 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, gather all ingredients and equipment: a large pot for boiling, a large skillet, and utensils for stirring. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. While waiting, prep your vegetables: mince the garlic, slice the mushrooms, chop the sun-dried tomatoes, and measure the spinach. Once the water boils, add the ravioli and cook for the time specified on the package, usually 3-5 minutes. Drain carefully, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.
For the sauce, place your large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and butter. Once the butter melts and foams, add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms have released their moisture and turned a deep golden brown. Next, add the fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir continuously for 2-3 minutes until the spinach is fully wilted. Pour in the broth and add red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to reduce slightly. Finally, add the drained ravioli to the skillet. Using a gentle folding motion, toss the ravioli in the sauce for 1-2 minutes until evenly coated and heated through.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and savory dish pairs beautifully with several sides. For a complete meal, serve with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A slice of warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. To elevate the presentation, garnish each plate with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a few extra red pepper flakes, and a fresh basil leaf.
How-to Summary
Boil ravioli. Sauté garlic and mushrooms in butter/oil. Wilt spinach and add tomatoes. Create a sauce with broth and seasonings. Toss cooked ravioli in the skillet to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen ravioli? Yes, frozen ravioli works perfectly. You can boil it directly from frozen, but may need to add 1-2 minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes? Roasted red peppers or a tablespoon of tomato paste (added with the broth) are excellent alternatives for a similar tangy depth.
How can I make this dish creamier? Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk with the broth for a luxuriously creamy sauce.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly? It’s best enjoyed fresh. Freezing can cause the ravioli to become mushy and the spinach to lose its texture upon reheating.
Can I add protein? Absolutely. Sautéed shrimp, shredded rotisserie chicken, or white beans are great additions. Add pre-cooked protein when you toss the ravioli in the sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the ravioli, as it will continue to cook slightly when tossed in the skillet. Do not burn the garlic; add it to the pan just after the butter melts and before it browns. Ensure your skillet is large enough to comfortably toss all ingredients without breaking the ravioli. Finally, do not skip seasoning the sauce in the pan—this builds layers of flavor that simply salting at the table cannot achieve.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Ravioli with Spinach & Mushrooms is a testament to how a few quality ingredients can create a spectacular, restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes. Its balance of savory garlic butter, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant spinach makes it a reliable and impressive dish for both busy weeknights and casual entertaining. Mastering this simple technique opens the door to endless variations, ensuring it will become a cherished staple in your cooking repertoire.