Description
This Creamy Pesto Ravioli recipe delivers a luscious and comforting meal in just 15 minutes. Tender cheese ravioli cooked in a smooth blend of pesto, cream, and broth creates a rich sauce, complemented by fresh baby spinach and a hint of lemon juice for brightness. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it’s both flavorful and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Sauce and Base
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup pesto
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound refrigerated cheese ravioli
- 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach
Seasoning and Toppings
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional, to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: In a skillet over medium-high heat, combine the chicken broth, pesto, heavy cream, and lemon juice. Stir well to incorporate the pesto evenly and allow the mixture to come to a gentle bubble.
- Add the ravioli: Once the sauce starts bubbling, add the refrigerated cheese ravioli directly into the skillet, distributing them evenly.
- Cook the ravioli: Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce heat to medium-low. Let the ravioli cook for 5 minutes, allowing them to heat through and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Check and adjust sauce: Stir the ravioli gently; if the sauce remains too watery, continue cooking uncovered for an additional 2-3 minutes until it reaches desired consistency.
- Add spinach: Stir in the fresh baby spinach, cover the pan again, and let it wilt for 1-2 minutes, mixing spinach evenly into the creamy sauce.
- Season and serve: Taste and season the dish with salt and pepper as needed. Optionally, sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese on top before serving to enhance flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
- Lemon juice adds a subtle brightness, but can be omitted if preferred.
- For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative.
- If using frozen ravioli, add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Feel free to add toasted pine nuts or sun-dried tomatoes for extra texture and flavor.
