If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you have to try this Creamy Pesto Ravioli with Spinach Recipe. It’s packed with luscious, velvety sauce that clings to pillowy cheese-filled ravioli, then brightened with fresh spinach leaves for a beautiful pop of green. Every bite bursts with the rich flavors of basil pesto and hints of lemon, balanced perfectly by creamy decadence. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe is a delightful way to elevate simple ingredients into something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of straightforward ingredients, this dish comes together quickly but delivers layers of flavor. Each component plays a key role, from adding depth and creaminess to contributing fresh, vibrant color that makes the dish irresistible.
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth: Adds a subtle savory base that lightens the creaminess without overwhelming the dish.
- 1/2 cup pesto: The star flavor, packed with basil, garlic, and pine nuts, giving the sauce its signature herby punch.
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream: Makes the sauce irresistibly smooth and luscious, coating every ravioli perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Brightens the sauce with a touch of acidity to balance the richness.
- 1 pound refrigerated cheese ravioli: Soft, cheesy pillows that soak up all the delicious sauce.
- 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach: Adds freshness and a vibrant green color, bringing a healthy contrast to the creamy sauce.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional): An extra layer of savory nuttiness that enhances every bite if you like.
How to Make Creamy Pesto Ravioli with Spinach Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Sauce Ingredients
Start by pouring the chicken or vegetable broth, pesto, heavy cream, and lemon juice into a skillet over medium-high heat. Give everything a good stir so the pesto dissolves smoothly into the liquid. This is where the magic begins—watch as those vibrant greens and creamy whites blend into a velvety base that sets the tone for the entire dish.
Step 2: Add the Ravioli to the Bubbling Sauce
Once the sauce mixture starts to bubble gently, it’s time to add the cheese ravioli right into the skillet. The heat will help the ravioli cook perfectly while absorbing all those herby, creamy notes. This step ensures your pasta gets infused with flavor throughout.
Step 3: Cover and Simmer the Ravioli
Lower the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet with a lid. Let the ravioli cook in the sauce for about five minutes. The cover traps steam to cook the pasta evenly without drying the sauce out, allowing it to thicken gradually around each delicate ravioli.
Step 4: Stir and Adjust Sauce Consistency
After five minutes, give everything a gentle stir. At this point, the sauce should have thickened nicely. If you find it’s still a bit too thin for your preference, feel free to let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes. This little patience pays off with a richer, creamier coating.
Step 5: Wilt the Fresh Spinach
Next, stir in the fresh baby spinach and cover the pan again. Let the spinach wilt for a minute or two; it will soften just enough to be delicious while keeping its bright color and subtle texture—an essential freshness kick for the dish.
Step 6: Season and Finish with Parmesan
The final flourish is seasoning the dish to taste with salt and pepper. A generous sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese on top adds a nutty, savory finish that elevates the sauce’s complexity. Now your Creamy Pesto Ravioli with Spinach Recipe is ready to delight!
How to Serve Creamy Pesto Ravioli with Spinach Recipe
Garnishes
Keep the garnishes simple to showcase the rich sauce and vibrant greens. I love to add a little extra parmesan, a few fresh basil leaves, or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil. A twist of cracked black pepper right on top adds an attractive and tasty finishing touch.
Side Dishes
This dish shines as a comforting main course but pairs beautifully with light side dishes. A crisp arugula salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted cherry tomatoes provides a fresh, zesty counterpoint. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for scooping up every last drop of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, serve the ravioli directly in shallow bowls or rustic plates to display the creamy sauce and spinach artfully. You can also sprinkle toasted pine nuts or a pinch of chili flakes for extra texture and a little heat, giving your guests a delicious surprise with every bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Creamy Pesto Ravioli with Spinach Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors actually meld beautifully overnight, making leftovers just as tasty as freshly made.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to make it ahead. Cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to two months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop.
Reheating
Reheat on the stove over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to ensure it warms evenly without sticking or drying out. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep the ravioli tender and the sauce silky.
FAQs
Can I use frozen ravioli instead of refrigerated?
Absolutely! Frozen ravioli works well with this recipe. Just increase the covered cooking time by a few minutes to ensure the pasta cooks through completely and stays tender in the creamy sauce.
What type of pesto is best for this recipe?
Classic basil pesto is ideal for the best flavor, but you can experiment with sun-dried tomato pesto or even arugula pesto for a unique twist. Just make sure it’s a high-quality, fresh pesto for the richest taste.
Is there a vegetarian option for the broth?
Yes, vegetable broth is a great vegetarian alternative to chicken broth and works perfectly in this dish without sacrificing flavor. It keeps things light and suitable for vegetarians.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a creamy non-dairy alternative and use a vegan pesto. Be mindful that the flavor will differ slightly but remain deliciously creamy.
How can I add protein to this dish?
For an extra protein boost, toss in grilled chicken strips, sautéed shrimp, or toasted pine nuts. Adding these to the sauce just before serving makes it a heartier meal without overpowering the basil and spinach flavors.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Creamy Pesto Ravioli with Spinach Recipe enough for anyone craving a luxurious yet simple meal. It’s quick to prepare, comforting, and full of bright, fresh elements that make every bite memorable. Once you try it, this will surely become one of your go-to recipes for satisfying dinner nights.
