I’ve always found butternut squash ravioli to be a perfect embodiment of comfort food, effortlessly combining rustic flavors with a touch of elegance. The homemade pasta, filled with roasted squash and creamy ricotta, has a way of inviting you in for more. When drizzled with a brown butter sage sauce, it transforms into something truly memorable. If you’re curious about the steps to achieve this comforting dish or what to pair it with to elevate the experience, you’ll want to keep going. There’s more to uncover about its preparation and serving suggestions.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
When you take your first bite of this butternut squash ravioli, you’ll immediately appreciate the rich filling made from roasted butternut squash, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. It’s like a comforting hug for your taste buds!
This dish is so much more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavor and nourishment, perfect for those family gatherings where laughter fills the air.
Here’s what you’ll love about this recipe:
- Homemade Pasta: The dough, made from equal parts all-purpose flour and semolina, offers a superior taste that beats store-bought any day!
- Brown Butter Sage Sauce: Tossed in this sauce, the ravioli has a nutty flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the creamy texture of the filling.
- Nutritious and Delicious: With over 10,000 IU of Vitamin A, you’re not just indulging; you’re fueling your body with good stuff.
Butternut Squash Ravioli
Course: DinnerCuisine: Italian4
servings1
hour10
minutes400
kcalIndulge in the comforting flavors of homemade butternut squash ravioli, a delightful dish that combines sweet roasted butternut squash with rich ricotta, encased in tender pasta.
Ingredients
- For the Filling:
1 medium butternut squash, roasted and pureed
1 cup ricotta cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon fresh sage, chopped
For the Pasta Dough:
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups semolina flour
4 large eggs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pinch of salt
- For the Sauce:
1/2 cup unsalted butter
10-12 fresh sage leaves
Directions
- Start by roasting the butternut squash until tender, then puree it and mix with ricotta, salt, pepper, and fresh sage for the filling.
- In a bowl, combine all-purpose flour, semolina, and salt. Make a well in the center, then add eggs and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Wrap in plastic and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll out the dough thinly and cut into squares. Place a teaspoon of filling in the center of each square, fold, and seal the edges with a fork.
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ravioli for 4-5 minutes or until they float.
- For the sauce, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat and add the sage leaves. Cook until the butter is browned and sage is crispy.
- Drain the ravioli and toss them with the brown butter sage sauce before serving.
Notes
- You can freeze uncooked ravioli by laying them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet and storing them in resealable plastic bags.
- Feel free to add grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Equipment
Creating perfect butternut squash ravioli requires some essential kitchen equipment that makes the process smoother and more efficient. Trust me, having the right tools can turn a formidable task into a delightful adventure!
Here are three must-have items for your cooking journey:
- Stand Mixer with Dough Hook – This is the secret weapon for kneading your pasta dough. It really helps develop the gluten, giving your ravioli that perfect chewy texture.
- Pasta Roller – Rolling out the dough can become a breeze with this tool. You’ll achieve a consistent thickness, helping you craft beautiful ravioli shapes that cook evenly.
- Ravioli Maker – Want to impress? A ravioli maker quickly forms those delicate pockets, sealing in your butternut squash filling with neat edges. Say goodbye to messy edges and hello to perfection!
Don’t forget about using a food processor for your filling—this will guarantee the filling consistency is smooth and creamy.
What to Serve With This Recipe
When I whip up butternut squash ravioli, I love thinking about what to pair with it to make the meal truly special.
A rich brown butter sage sauce is a must for drizzling, and adding some roasted seasonal veggies like Brussels sprouts really brings everything to life.
Don’t forget a light arugula salad and maybe a glass of wine to complete the experience—I promise it all works together beautifully!
Ideal Pairing Sauces
An array of sauces can elevate your butternut squash ravioli, enhancing its natural flavors while adding depth to your meal. One of my absolute favorites is the Brown Butter Sage Sauce. The nutty aroma from browned butter paired with fresh sage leaves makes each bite feel like a warm hug on a chilly fall evening.
If you’re in the mood for something familiar, a tangy Marinara Sauce does a beautiful job of balancing the creamy filling of your ravioli. For a decadent treat, Alfredo Sauce adds a rich, creamy touch that complements the sweet, delicious butternut squash.
If you’re craving something a bit greener, Pesto can brighten up your dish with its herby goodness, cutting through the rich flavors wonderfully.
Finally, let’s not forget the Hazelnut Honey Butter Sauce! This unique mix brings in warmth and crunch, making it a perfect choice for a fall cooking project.
No matter what sauce you choose, each one brings its own flair, turning your butternut squash ravioli recipe into a true delight. Enjoy exploring these flavors and make it your own!
Complementary Side Dishes
To round out your butternut squash ravioli, consider pairing it with complementary side dishes that accentuate its flavors. One of my favorite options is a light arugula salad topped with sliced pears and walnuts, drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette. It adds a rejuvenating and slightly sweet contrast to those rich flavors.
You can also try roasted Brussels sprouts tossed in olive oil and garlic. They give that nutty note a delightful crunchy texture that I can’t resist!
If you want something quick and easy, sautéed kale with lemon juice and garlic will enhance the earthy flavors of your meal. And who doesn’t love warm bread? A nice, crusty sourdough or ciabatta is perfect for soaking up any leftover brown butter sage sauce.
Don’t forget about seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots or beets that provide extra sweetness and color to your plate.
With these sides, I promise your butternut squash ravioli will shine even brighter. So, have fun mixing and matching! Cooking should be an enjoyable adventure, and these simple additions can really elevate the meal. Happy cooking!
Wine Recommendations
Pairing wine with your butternut squash ravioli can elevate your dining experience to a whole new level. When I think about the creamy texture of this dish, a full-bodied Chardonnay comes to mind. Its richness enhances the flavors without overpowering them—a true match made in heaven.
If you’d like something lighter, try a crisp Sauvignon Blanc. Its zesty acidity and herbal notes balance the sweetness of the squash perfectly.
For a red wine option, I adore Pinot Noir. Its fruity profile and low tannins harmonize beautifully with the autumn flavors, letting the dish shine.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, a Dry Riesling could be a fantastic choice too. Its vibrant acidity and fruity aromas add a delightful burst of flavor that complements the nutty elements!
Now, if you’re serving your ravioli with a brown butter sage sauce, consider a Chardonnay that’s been oak aged. This will echo those lovely toasty notes and elevate your meal even further.
Whatever you choose, just remember to enjoy each sip and savor the flavors. Happy cooking!