Welcome to our delicious and easy Butternut Squash Ravioli Ricotta recipe! If you’re looking for a homemade pasta dish that celebrates the flavors of autumn, you’ve come to the right place. With a savory butternut squash filling, creamy ricotta cheese, and homemade pasta dough, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive right in!
Key Takeaways:
- Learn how to make homemade butternut squash ravioli with a creamy ricotta filling.
- Enjoy the savory flavors of autumn in every bite of this comforting pasta dish.
- Follow our easy recipe for homemade pasta dough to elevate your ravioli-making skills.
- Discover a delicious brown butter sauce that pairs perfectly with Butternut Squash Ravioli Ricotta.
- Explore make-ahead and freezing tips to simplify meal planning and preparation.
Ingredients and Preparation
To make Butternut Squash Ravioli Ricotta, you will need a few key ingredients and follow a simple preparation process. Let’s dive into the details:
Ingredients:
- 1 butternut squash
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- Homemade pasta dough
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Place the squash halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast them for about 45 minutes, or until the flesh is fork-tender.
Once the butternut squash is roasted and cooled, scoop out the flesh and transfer it to a bowl. Add the ricotta cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix the ingredients well until you have a creamy and flavorful filling.
Next, it’s time to prepare the homemade pasta dough. Roll out the dough into thin sheets, ensuring that it’s not too thin to prevent tearing when filled. Spoon small portions of the butternut squash-ricotta mixture onto one sheet of pasta dough, leaving enough space between each spoonful to allow for sealing.
Place another sheet of pasta dough on top of the filling, pressing down gently around each mound to seal the ravioli. Use a ravioli cutter or a sharp knife to cut out each individual ravioli. Repeat the process with the remaining dough and filling until all the ravioli are formed.
Now, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and carefully drop the ravioli in. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface, indicating that they are properly cooked. Use a slotted spoon to remove the cooked ravioli from the water and transfer them to a serving dish.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butternut Squash | 1 |
| Ricotta Cheese | 1 cup |
| Homemade Pasta Dough | As needed |
Sauce and Serving Suggestions
A delicious sauce for Butternut Squash Ravioli Ricotta is a simple brown butter sauce. The butter is browned to a nutty perfection and then drizzled over the ravioli, adding richness and depth of flavor. To enhance the dish further, you can top the ravioli with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with sage leaves.
Serve the ravioli with a side of salad or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
| Sauce: | Brown Butter Sauce |
|---|---|
| Additional Toppings: | Freshly grated Parmesan cheese |
| Garnish: | Sage leaves |
| Serving Ideas: | Side of salad or roasted vegetables |
Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips
Preparing Butternut Squash Ravioli Ricotta ahead of time not only saves you valuable cooking time but also ensures a delicious meal is always within reach. By following these make-ahead and freezing tips, you can enjoy the flavors of this homemade pasta dish whenever you desire.
Make-Ahead Pasta Dough:
Preparing the homemade pasta dough in advance allows you to conveniently assemble the ravioli whenever you’re ready. Follow the recipe instructions to make the pasta dough and then store it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. This way, you can have fresh pasta ready to go without the hassle of making it from scratch each time.
Freezing the Ravioli:
If you want to store the Butternut Squash Ravioli Ricotta for longer periods, freezing is a great option. The ravioli can be filled and sealed, then placed on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to space them out to prevent sticking. Freeze the ravioli on the baking sheet for about an hour until they’re firm.
Once the ravioli are firm, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bags. Label the container with the date and contents for easy identification. The frozen ravioli can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer, ready to be cooked whenever you’re craving them.
Cooking Frozen Ravioli:
When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen ravioli, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand. Simply bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the frozen ravioli straight from the freezer. Cook for an additional 2 minutes beyond the recommended cooking time for fresh ravioli. The ravioli will float to the top when they’re cooked and ready to be served.
With these make-ahead and freezing tips, you can enjoy the delicious Butternut Squash Ravioli Ricotta at your convenience. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or planning ahead for a special occasion, having homemade ravioli ready to go in the fridge or freezer ensures a satisfying and comforting meal that’s always within reach.
Conclusion
Butternut Squash Ravioli Ricotta is a delectable pasta dish that captures the flavors and warmth of autumn. The combination of homemade butternut squash ravioli and a creamy ricotta filling is a surefire crowd-pleaser, suitable for a cozy family dinner or an impressive dinner party.
One of the great things about this recipe is the ability to make the pasta dough from scratch. This not only ensures a fresh and authentic taste but also gives you control over the thickness and texture of the ravioli. Whether you prefer a thin and delicate pasta or a more substantial bite, you can tailor it to your liking.
Another advantage of Butternut Squash Ravioli Ricotta is its freezer-friendly nature. By preparing the ravioli in advance and freezing them, you can have a quick and satisfying meal ready to enjoy anytime. Simply cook the frozen ravioli directly in boiling water for a few minutes, and you have a homemade restaurant-quality dish in no time.
So, indulge in the comforting flavors of fall with this homemade pasta dish. Delight in the velvety smooth texture of the ricotta filling combined with the delicate sweetness of the butternut squash. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe offers flexibility, versatility, and the sheer joy of savoring every bite of homemade goodness.
FAQ
What are the main ingredients needed for Butternut Squash Ravioli Ricotta?
The main ingredients needed for Butternut Squash Ravioli Ricotta are butternut squash, ricotta cheese, and homemade pasta dough.
How is the filling for Butternut Squash Ravioli Ricotta made?
The filling for Butternut Squash Ravioli Ricotta is made by roasting the butternut squash and then pureeing it with ricotta cheese, creating a creamy and flavorful mixture.
How is the pasta dough for Butternut Squash Ravioli Ricotta prepared?
The pasta dough for Butternut Squash Ravioli Ricotta is homemade and rolled out to encase the butternut squash-ricotta filling.
What sauce goes well with Butternut Squash Ravioli Ricotta?
A simple brown butter sauce pairs well with Butternut Squash Ravioli Ricotta, adding richness and depth of flavor.
What can be served with Butternut Squash Ravioli Ricotta?
Butternut Squash Ravioli Ricotta can be served with a side of salad or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Can Butternut Squash Ravioli Ricotta be made ahead of time?
Yes, the homemade pasta dough can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for 2-3 days for convenience.
Can Butternut Squash Ravioli Ricotta be frozen?
Yes, the ravioli can be filled and sealed, then frozen on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container for long-term storage.
How do you cook frozen Butternut Squash Ravioli Ricotta?
To cook frozen Butternut Squash Ravioli Ricotta, simply add them straight to boiling water and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Why is Butternut Squash Ravioli Ricotta a delicious and comforting autumn-inspired pasta dish?
Butternut Squash Ravioli Ricotta is a delicious and comforting autumn-inspired pasta dish due to the homemade pasta dough filled with a creamy ricotta filling, featuring the flavors of fall in every bite.
