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Squash Ravioli Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 57 reviews

This Butternut Squash Ravioli recipe combines tender pasta filled with sweet butternut squash and pairs it with a savory Italian sausage cream sauce enhanced by maple syrup and thyme. The dish is creamy, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting yet elegant meal, enriched by the optional addition of fresh baby spinach for a pop of color and nutrition.

Ingredients

Scale

Ravioli

  • 1 package of butternut squash ravioli

Sauce and Sausage

  • 1 pound Italian sausage
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 16 ounces light cream
  • 2–3 tablespoons pure maple syrup, adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese or shredded mac and cheese blend
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Vegetables (optional)

  • 2 cups baby spinach, optional

Instructions

  1. Cook the Italian Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  2. Sauté Garlic: Once the sausage is browned, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant without burning.
  3. Add Cream and Maple Syrup: Pour in the light cream and stir in the maple syrup and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  4. Cook the Ravioli: While the sauce simmers, cook the butternut squash ravioli in a large pot of salted boiling water following the package instructions, typically 3-5 minutes or until they float to the surface. Drain carefully.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained ravioli to the skillet with the sausage cream sauce. Gently toss to coat the ravioli evenly.
  6. Incorporate Cheese and Spinach: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the sauce. If using, add the baby spinach and cook for another 1-2 minutes until wilted. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  7. Serve: Plate the ravioli and sauce immediately while hot. Optionally, garnish with freshly ground black pepper or a sprinkle of extra cheese.

Notes

  • Adjust the amount of maple syrup according to your taste preference for sweetness.
  • You can substitute the Italian sausage with a vegetarian sausage or ground turkey for a leaner option.
  • For a richer sauce, use heavy cream instead of light cream.
  • The baby spinach is optional but adds great color and nutrients.
  • Make sure to not overcook the ravioli to prevent them from breaking apart.

Keywords: butternut squash ravioli, Italian sausage, creamy sauce, maple syrup, easy pasta recipe, autumn dinner

Find it online: https://cheframi.com/squash-ravioli-recipe/