When you think of cozy nights and rich, creamy flavors, Olive Garden Inspired Ravioli Carbonara just might float to the top of your list. This meal has been popping up everywhere lately in TikTok videos and Pinterest boards and it’s no wonder why! It’s comfort food that hugs you back, making it a perfect pick-me-up.
This dish features pillowy ravioli, crispy pancetta, and a luscious egg sauce that all meld together. It’s like your grandma’s classic carbonara made effortlessly quick for a weeknight win! With just a handful of ingredients, this meal is an easy way to bring warmth to your table. Full details in the blog!
Experience a quick and tasty Olive Garden inspired ravioli carbonara. This easy olive garden ravioli carbonara recipe features a cheesy baked ravioli carbonara with loaded cheese ravioli carbonara sauce perfect for a family favorite meal.
Ingredients
Scale
1 (20-ounce) package cheese-filled ravioli (fresh or frozen)
1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)
4 ounces pancetta or bacon diced
2 cloves garlic minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup whole milk or more cream for extra richness
½ cup Parmesan cheese grated
1 teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
2 large egg yolks whisked
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
¼ cup extra Parmesan cheese grated
1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
Cracked black pepper to taste
Instructions
Heat a large pot of salted water until boiling and cook the ravioli according to package directions, reserving half a cup of the pasta water before draining.
In a skillet over medium heat, fry the pancetta or bacon until crispy, then transfer to a paper towel to drain, leaving about one tablespoon of the fat in the pan.
Melt butter in the skillet and cook minced garlic for thirty seconds until aromatic.
Reduce heat to medium-low, add heavy cream and whole milk, warming the mixture for two to three minutes before stirring in grated Parmesan, black pepper, and salt until blended.
Whisk egg yolks in a bowl and gradually mix a few tablespoons of the warm sauce into them to temper, then slowly stir the egg mixture back into the skillet while stirring continuously.
Cook the sauce stirring often for two minutes until slightly thickened.
Gently fold cooked ravioli into the sauce along with the crispy pancetta or bacon, adding reserved pasta water if needed to reach desired sauce consistency.
Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve immediately.
Prep Time:5 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Category:Main Course
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Italian
Nutrition
Serving Size:1 plate of ravioli carbonara
Calories:620
Sugar:3g
Fat:36g
Carbohydrates:52g
Fiber:3g
Protein:22g
Why It’s a Family Favorite
If you’re looking for a dish that gathers everyone around the table with smiles, this Olive Garden-inspired ravioli carbonara is a winner! It’s comforting, creamy, and delightfully simple to prepare. It strikes the perfect balance of pleasing even the pickiest eaters while still feeling a bit gourmet. Imagine cheesy, pillowy ravioli swimming in a rich, silky sauce flecked with crispy pancetta yes, please!
This dish is a crowd-pleaser and feels like a warm hug after a long day. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight or whenever you want a cozy meal. Add a salad or some garlic bread, and you have a special dinner that easily becomes a family favorite!
Ingredients Breakdown
You might be surprised how just a few ingredients can deliver so much flavor and comfort in this recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:
Cheese-Filled Ravioli: A 20-ounce package, fresh or frozen, makes it super easy.
Pancetta or Bacon: Adds satisfying crunch and savory flavor.
Heavy Cream and Whole Milk: The secret behind that luscious sauce don’t skimp here for rich goodness!
Garlic and Parmesan Cheese: For the aromatic and cheesy magic.
Egg Yolks: What makes the sauce creamy and velvety, so don’t forget them!
Quick Cooking Time Overview
Ingredient
Cooking Time
Fresh Ravioli
3-5 minutes
Frozen Ravioli
8-10 minutes
Pancetta or Bacon
4-5 minutes
Simple Steps to Make It
Cook the Ravioli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ravioli and cook according to the package instructions: 3-5 minutes for fresh, or 8-10 minutes for frozen. Be sure to reserve some pasta water before draining!
Sauté the Pancetta: In a large skillet over medium heat, crisp the diced pancetta or bacon for about 4-5 minutes. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate, reserving a tablespoon of the flavorful fat in the pan.
Prepare the Sauce: Melt some butter in the same pan, then add minced garlic and savor the aroma for about 30 seconds. Lower the heat, then gently combine heavy cream and milk. Gradually whisk in Parmesan, black pepper, and salt until melted. To achieve a smooth sauce, temper the egg yolks by whisking in a bit of the warm sauce before adding them to the skillet.
Combine & Serve: Toss the drained ravioli into the sauce, mixing well until coated. Add the crispy pancetta, adjust the sauce’s thickness with reserved pasta water, and season to taste. Finish with extra Parmesan and parsley before serving.
Meat Options: Substitute pancetta with thick-cut bacon or turkey bacon for lighter choices.
Vegetarian Version: Use sautéed mushrooms or spinach instead of meat for a delicious plant-based option.
Extra Creaminess: Want even richer sauce? Use all cream your taste buds will thank you!
How to Serve & Store
To serve, sprinkle extra Parmesan and a touch of cracked black pepper over the pasta to really elevate the flavors. Pair it with a simple green salad and garlic bread to soak up every bit of that creamy sauce.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. The sauce may thicken as it sits, so reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to restore its creamy texture.
Expert Says
When making OLIVE GARDEN INSPIRED RAVIOLI CARBONARA, using fresh eggs can enhance the sauce’s creaminess, as the proteins help emulsify it. Additionally, topping the dish with freshly grated Parmesan boosts umami flavor, creating a more satisfying and well-rounded meal.
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The Journey to My Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara
After countless attempts at perfecting my Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara, I can confidently say it’s worth every sprinkle of Parmesan! From sauces that were too thick to a wonderfully creamy success, each try was a lesson in kitchen finesseand now, the aroma wafting through the house makes it all worthwhile.
FAQs ( Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara )
What type of ravioli is best for this recipe?
Fresh or frozen cheese ravioli works best for this dish. You can use spinach or mushroom-stuffed ravioli for a delightful twist, but cheese is a classic choice that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
Can I use bacon in place of pancetta?
Yes, you can substitute bacon for pancetta if needed, but it may impart a smokier flavor. Just be sure to cook the bacon until crispy to add the desired texture to this meal.
How can I make the sauce creamy?
For a creamier sauce, include extra heavy cream or half-and-half. Incorporating some grated Parmesan cheese can also help thicken and enrich the sauce, making every bite luscious and satisfying.
What side dishes go well with this dish?
A fresh green salad or garlic bread complements the flavors beautifully. Roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli also make excellent sides, offering a nice contrast to the richness of the pasta.
Conclusion
Your kitchen is about to celebrate! This Easy Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara Recipe delivers cozy vibes in just 20 minutes. Imagine the creamy sauce wrapping around cheesy ravioli, making each bite a comforting hug. You’ll love how it turns out rich aroma, delightful texture, and smiles all around are guaranteed.
For a fun twist, try adding sautéed mushrooms or swapping pancetta for turkey bacon. Have leftovers? Store them in an airtight container for up to four days, and add a splash of milk when reheating to restore that luscious creaminess. A tip I learned from my aunt’s kitchen always works wonders!
I’d love to hear about your experiences! Did you grow up with a family dish that feels like home? Don’t forget to share your photos or memories with us! And if you’ve found joy in this recipe, pass it on to someone you love cozy cooking is best when shared.
Sharing a handpicked collection of easy, healthy recipes made in our family kitchen. Rachel brings comforting classics, while Emily adds fresh, modern ideas together creating meals that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly.
