Slow Cooked Ravioli is a dish that dances on your taste buds, swirling together flavors that are both comforting and vibrant. Imagine sinking your fork into tender pillows of pasta, enveloped in a rich sauce that warms your soul like an embrace from a long-lost friend. The aroma wafts through the air, teasing your senses before you even take that first bite.
As you prepare this meal, memories flood back of family dinners where laughter mingled with the clinking of forks and the warmth of shared stories. Whether it’s a rainy Sunday afternoon or an impromptu gathering with friends, Slow Cooked Ravioli is the perfect companion for any occasion. Get ready to dive into a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Slow Cooked Ravioli recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight meals stress-free.
- The flavor profile combines savory herbs and rich tomato sauce for a deliciously satisfying dish.
- Its visual appeal with vibrant colors makes it a feast for the eyes as well.
- Perfectly versatile, you can add vegetables or proteins based on what you have at home.
Ingredients for Slow Cooked Ravioli
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ravioli: Choose your favorite stuffed ravioli cheese, spinach, or meat work beautifully in this recipe.
- Marinara Sauce: A good quality marinara sauce adds depth of flavor; homemade or store-bought both work well.
- Fresh Basil: This fragrant herb elevates the dish with its aromatic freshness; use whole leaves for garnish.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds a salty richness; sprinkle generously over each serving.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances flavor and helps prevent sticking in the slow cooker.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Slow Cooked Ravioli
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients and equipment: a slow cooker, measuring cups, and spoons. This way, everything’s within arm’s reach when you’re ready to start cooking.
Step 2: Layer Your Ingredients
Begin by drizzling olive oil in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add half of the marinara sauce to create a flavorful base. Next, layer half of the ravioli on top of the sauce, followed by another layer of marinara sauce.
Step 3: Add Fresh Herbs
Sprinkle some fresh basil leaves over the layers you’ve created. This infuses every ravioli with delightful herbal notes that elevate the entire dish.
Step 4: Repeat Layers
Continue layering with the remaining ravioli and finish off with the last bit of marinara sauce. Make sure every piece is coated in sauce; nobody wants dry pasta!
Step 5: Slow Cook It
Cover and set your slow cooker to low heat for about four hours. If you’re really hungry (or impatient), you can cook it on high for two hours instead.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked through and bubbling with flavor, serve your Slow Cooked Ravioli hot! Top each serving with grated parmesan and more fresh basil if desired.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra sauce for the perfect finishing touch! Enjoy every bite as if it were made just for you (because honestly, it was!).
With its comforting textures and bursting flavors, this Slow Cooked Ravioli will soon be one of your go-to recipes perfect for cozy nights or lively gatherings!
You Must Know
- Slow cooked ravioli is the ultimate comfort food that warms the heart and satisfies the soul.
- This dish not only saves time but also allows flavors to meld beautifully, creating a mouthwatering experience.
- Plus, it’s perfect for impressing friends and family without breaking a sweat!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve slow cooked ravioli perfection, start by sautéing your favorite vegetables in olive oil. Then, simmer the sauce while cooking the ravioli separately. Combine everything just before serving for optimal texture and flavor fusion.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out traditional ravioli fillings for something more adventurous, like spinach and ricotta or even butternut squash. Add fresh herbs or a splash of cream to elevate your sauce and customize your dish. For more inspiration, check out this cream cheesy ravioli recipe.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover slow cooked ravioli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ravioli for a tender bite that enhances your meal.
- Avoid overcrowding the pot when boiling; this ensures even cooking.
- Lastly, always taste your sauce before serving; adjusting seasoning can make all the difference!
I once made slow cooked ravioli for my family reunion, and they all raved about it! My aunt even asked if I could cook it every Sunday. That’s when you know you’ve hit culinary gold!
FAQs :
What ingredients are needed for Slow Cooked Ravioli?
To make delicious slow cooked ravioli, you will need fresh or frozen ravioli, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic, and ricotta cheese. Additionally, you can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added flavor. Consider using grated Parmesan cheese for topping. delicious meatball pairing The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility; feel free to mix in your favorite proteins such as chicken or sausage. flavorful chicken option Make sure to have fresh herbs like basil on hand to elevate the dish even further.
How long does it take to cook Slow Cooked Ravioli?
Cooking slow cooked ravioli generally takes about 4 to 6 hours on low heat in a slow cooker. This method allows the flavors of the sauce and ingredients to meld beautifully while ensuring the ravioli cooks perfectly without becoming mushy. If you’re short on time, you can also cook it on high for about 2 to 3 hours. Always check that the ravioli is heated through before serving, as cooking times can vary based on the type of cooker used.
Can I use store-bought marinara sauce for Slow Cooked Ravioli?
Yes, you can absolutely use store-bought marinara sauce when preparing slow cooked ravioli. In fact, many people prefer the convenience and consistent flavor of jarred sauces. However, if you have extra time and ingredients, consider making a homemade marinara for a richer taste. You can enhance store-bought sauces by adding sautéed onions, garlic, and fresh herbs for a personalized touch. This way, you create a delicious base that complements your ravioli perfectly.
Is it safe to freeze Slow Cooked Ravioli leftovers?
Yes, freezing leftovers from your slow cooked ravioli is safe and an excellent way to reduce waste. Make sure to let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Properly stored, your leftovers can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until thoroughly warmed.
Conclusion for Slow Cooked Ravioli :
In summary, slow cooked ravioli is an easy and flavorful dish that brings comfort food to your table with minimal effort. With simple ingredients like marinara sauce and fresh ravioli, you can create a satisfying meal that delights everyone. This recipe offers flexibility in terms of ingredients and cooking time, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences or dietary needs. Whether enjoyed freshly made or as leftovers, slow cooked ravioli is sure to become a family favorite! For more inspiration, check out this slow cooker pot roast recipe.
Slow Cooked Ravioli
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Slow Cooked Ravioli is a comforting dish that combines tender ravioli with a rich marinara sauce, creating a flavor-packed meal perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. This recipe is simple to prepare, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully as they cook slowly. Each bite offers a delightful blend of flavors, enhanced by fresh herbs and generous amounts of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
- 24 oz frozen or fresh cheese-filled ravioli
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare your slow cooker by drizzling olive oil at the bottom.
- Layer half of the marinara sauce, then half of the ravioli.
- Add half of the basil leaves followed by another layer of marinara sauce.
- Repeat with the remaining ravioli and sauce; top with remaining basil.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours (or high for 2 hours).
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: - Customize your dish by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. - Enhance store-bought marinara sauce by sautéing garlic and onions before adding to your layers.
