why make this recipe
Creamy Cajun Sausage Ravioli is a delicious meal that combines rich flavors and hearty ingredients. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe is easy to follow and offers a wonderful blend of spicy sausage, creamy sauce, and cheesy ravioli, making it a family favorite. Plus, it’s a great way to involve loved ones in the kitchen, as everyone can help with different steps.
how to make Creamy Cajun Sausage Ravioli
Ingredients:
- 1 pound spicy Italian sausage
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 large red onion, diced
- 6 to 7 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon garlic blend
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 to 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 25 ounces frozen cheese ravioli
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
Directions:
- Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet.
- Add the spicy Italian sausage, red and green bell peppers, red onion, and minced garlic. Cook, breaking up the sausage with a spatula, and stir occasionally until the sausage is browned and the vegetables are softened.
- Incorporate the garlic blend, Cajun seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes into the skillet. Stir and cook for 1 minute until the spices are aromatic.
- Pour in the beef or chicken broth and heavy cream. Mix everything together and bring the contents to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet.
- Gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese fully melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
- Cook the frozen cheese ravioli in a large pot of boiling salted water according to package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the ravioli.
- Gently fold the cooked ravioli and reserved pasta water into the skillet with the sauce. Toss carefully to coat the ravioli well.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the dish simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving hot.
how to serve Creamy Cajun Sausage Ravioli
Serve Creamy Cajun Sausage Ravioli warm. You can garnish each plate with additional Parmesan cheese or chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. This dish is truly satisfying and will impress your family and friends.
how to store Creamy Cajun Sausage Ravioli
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
tips to make Creamy Cajun Sausage Ravioli
- Use fresh ingredients whenever possible for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.
- Feel free to use different types of sausages or ravioli for added variety.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a bit longer before adding the cooked ravioli.
variation (if any)
For a lighter version, you can use turkey sausage instead of spicy Italian sausage. You can also replace heavy cream with a mix of half and half and low-fat milk for a healthier twist on the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh ravioli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the ravioli ahead of time. Just combine them before serving and heat through.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe includes spicy Italian sausage and Cajun seasoning, which adds some heat. You can reduce the spice by using mild sausage and less Cajun seasoning if needed.
Creamy Cajun Sausage Ravioli
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delicious meal of spicy sausage, creamy sauce, and cheesy ravioli, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 pound spicy Italian sausage
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 large red onion, diced
- 6 to 7 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon garlic blend
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 to 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 25 ounces frozen cheese ravioli
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
- Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet.
- Add the spicy Italian sausage, red and green bell peppers, red onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the sausage is browned and the vegetables are softened.
- Incorporate the garlic blend, Cajun seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes into the skillet. Stir and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in the beef or chicken broth and heavy cream. Mix everything together and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Cook the frozen cheese ravioli in a pot of boiling salted water according to package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup of the cooking water before draining.
- Gently fold the cooked ravioli and reserved pasta water into the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat well.
- Let the dish simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving hot.
Notes
Serve warm garnished with Parmesan cheese or parsley. Pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian