When it comes to creating a memorable dinner, few dishes can rival the charm and comfort of homemade ravioli. And if you're looking for a filling that will take your ravioli to the next level, look no further than our top - rated sausage ravioli filling. Whether you prefer your ravioli boiled or breaded, this restaurant - worthy filling is sure to be a hit at your dinner table.
The star of this filling is, of course, the sausage. Sausage brings a rich, savory flavor that forms the base of the entire dish. You can choose your favorite type of sausage, be it Italian sausage with its blend of herbs and spices, or a milder breakfast sausage for a more subtle taste. The key is to cook the sausage thoroughly, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. This ensures that every bite of the ravioli has a burst of that delicious sausage flavor.
Next up is the creamy ricotta. Ricotta cheese adds a smooth and velvety texture to the filling. It also has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that complements the sausage perfectly. When you mix the cooked sausage with the ricotta, you start to create a filling that is both hearty and indulgent. The ricotta also helps to bind the other ingredients together, making it easier to stuff into the ravioli.
Spinach is another essential ingredient in this recipe. Not only does it add a pop of color to the filling, but it also brings a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals. Fresh spinach is ideal, as it has a more vibrant flavor compared to frozen spinach. Simply wilt the spinach in a pan with a little bit of olive oil until it's tender, then squeeze out any excess moisture. This step is crucial, as too much moisture in the filling can cause the ravioli to fall apart during cooking.
A hint of nutmeg is the secret ingredient that takes this filling from good to great. Nutmeg has a warm, slightly sweet and spicy flavor that adds depth and complexity to the dish. Just a small amount, about a 1/4 teaspoon, is enough to enhance the other flavors without overpowering them. When you add the nutmeg to the mixture of sausage, ricotta, and spinach, you'll notice an immediate difference in the aroma and taste.
Once you've prepared the filling, it's time to make the ravioli. You can use store - bought pasta sheets for convenience, or if you're feeling adventurous, make your own pasta dough from scratch. Lay out the pasta sheets on a clean surface and place small spoonfuls of the filling at regular intervals. Then, cover the filling with another pasta sheet and press around each mound of filling to seal the ravioli. Use a knife or a ravioli cutter to cut out individual ravioli.
Now comes the fun part - cooking and serving your ravioli. You have two main options: boiling or breading. Boiling the ravioli is the classic method. Simply drop the ravioli into a pot of boiling salted water and cook for a few minutes until they float to the surface. This usually takes about 3 - 5 minutes, depending on the size of the ravioli. Once they're cooked, you can toss them in melted butter for a simple and delicious sauce. The butter adds a rich, buttery flavor that pairs well with the filling.
If you're in the mood for something a little more decadent, you can bread the ravioli. Dip the cooked ravioli in beaten eggs, then coat them in breadcrumbs. Fry them in a pan with a little bit of oil until they're golden brown and crispy on the outside. This gives the ravioli a whole new texture and makes them even more irresistible.
Another popular option for serving the ravioli is with marinara sauce. Marinara sauce is a classic Italian tomato sauce that is made with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs. It has a bright, tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the filling. You can either make your own marinara sauce from scratch or use a store - bought version. Pour the marinara sauce over the cooked ravioli and top it with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a truly mouth - watering meal.
In conclusion, our sausage ravioli filling recipe is a versatile and delicious option for your dinner table. With its combination of sausage, ricotta, spinach, and nutmeg, it offers a unique and satisfying flavor profile. Whether you choose to boil, bread, or serve it with marinara sauce, this ravioli is sure to become a family favorite. So, the next time you're planning a pasta night, give this recipe a try and enjoy a restaurant - quality meal in the comfort of your own home.
