Prepare to elevate your dinner table with this delectable Creamy Spinach Baked Ravioli recipe. Tender cheese ravioli is bathed in a velvety spinach-infused cream sauce, then baked to golden perfection with a generous layer of melted cheese on top. This dish is the epitome of comfort food with a touch of elegance, perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests. With each creamy, indulgent bite, you’ll savor the harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more.
As a lover of Italian cuisine, I’m always on the lookout for creative ways to reinvent classic pasta dishes. One evening, while pondering what to make for dinner, I found myself inspired by the vibrant green hues of fresh spinach in my refrigerator. With a little experimentation and a dash of creativity, I transformed ordinary cheese ravioli into a culinary masterpiece: Creamy Spinach Baked Ravioli. From the moment it emerged from the oven, bubbling with creamy goodness and adorned with golden cheese, I knew I had struck gold. As my family gathered around the dinner table, their eyes widened with anticipation, and with the first forkful, they were hooked. Since then, this dish has become a cherished favorite, a go-to recipe for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of flavor, comfort, and the joy of sharing homemade goodness with loved ones.
Why Creamy Spinach Baked Ravioli Will Be Your New Go-To Dinner Delight
- Luxurious Cream Sauce: Indulge in a creamy spinach-infused sauce that’s rich, velvety, and bursting with flavor.
- Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
- Versatile Dish: Customize the dish by using your favorite type of ravioli or adding extra veggies or protein for a heartier meal.
- Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Whether served as a cozy family dinner or an impressive dinner party entree, this dish is sure to delight and satisfy all palates.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the dish in advance and simply bake it when ready to serve, making it ideal for entertaining or meal prepping.
Ingredients:
For the Creamy Spinach Sauce:
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, crushed
- 200 g (7 oz) baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tablespoon cornflour/cornstarch
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Baked Ravioli:
- 500 g (1 pound) cheese ravioli
- 1 cup grated cheese (such as mozzarella or Italian blend)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F).
- In a skillet, sauté the chopped onion in a splash of olive oil until soft and translucent. Add the crushed garlic and chopped spinach, cooking until the spinach has wilted.
- In a small bowl, mix the milk and cornflour together to create a slurry. Pour the heavy cream and milk mixture into the skillet, stirring constantly until the sauce has thickened.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice to the sauce, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Layer the cooked cheese ravioli in a baking dish, then pour the creamy spinach sauce over the ravioli.
- Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the top of the sauce.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the ravioli is heated through.
- Remove from the oven and allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil, if desired.
- Serve and enjoy the irresistible flavors of Creamy Spinach Baked Ravioli!
Notes: For added texture and flavor, try sprinkling breadcrumbs or chopped nuts on top before baking. This dish pairs perfectly with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to several days and reheated in the oven or microwave for a quick and satisfying meal.
