Imagine twirling your fork into a plate of perfectly cooked four cheese ravioli, blanketed in a rich, aromatic marinara sauce that transports you straight to the heart of Italy. This isn't just another pasta dish – it's a culinary journey that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal you can create right in your own kitchen. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a recipe that combines classic Italian flavors, creamy cheese-filled pillows, and a sauce so delicious, it'll have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package (12 oz) four cheese ravioli
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by finely chopping the onion and mincing the garlic cloves. Measure out dried herbs and have salt and pepper ready.
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release aromatic flavors.
- Pour the crushed tomatoes into the skillet, stirring to combine with the onion and garlic mixture. Add dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Reduce heat to low and let the marinara sauce simmer, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and allow flavors to meld together.
- While sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the four cheese ravioli and cook according to package instructions, typically 3-4 minutes or until they float to the surface.
- Drain the ravioli carefully using a slotted spoon or colander, ensuring they remain intact.
- Plate the cooked ravioli and generously ladle the homemade marinara sauce over the top. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese as a final garnish.
- Serve immediately while hot, optionally accompanied by additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for extra flavor.
Tips
- Use fresh ingredients: The quality of your tomatoes and herbs can make or break your marinara sauce. Choose ripe, high-quality crushed tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Don't rush the sautéing: Take your time caramelizing the onions and garlic. This builds a flavor foundation for your entire sauce.
- Salt your pasta water generously: This is your only chance to season the ravioli from the inside out. The water should taste like the sea.
- Watch your ravioli carefully: They cook quickly, so stay close and remove them as soon as they float to the surface to prevent overcooking.
- Let the sauce simmer: Allowing the marinara to cook slowly helps develop deeper, more complex flavors.
- Finish with fresh Parmesan: The freshly grated cheese adds a final layer of flavor and richness that pre-grated cheese can't match.
- Serve immediately: Four cheese ravioli is best enjoyed piping hot, so time your cooking to serve right away.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 65mg
