Jump to Recipe Print RecipeCrispy, golden ravioli sizzling in a buttery pan is one of those kitchen moments that feels like a little victory. As the fragrance of garlic swirls through the air, you know you’re in for a treat with my Butter-Toasted Ravioli recipe. This dish brilliantly combines the satisfying crunch of toasted pasta with a comforting, cheesy filling for a quick meal that delights both family dinners and cozy date nights. Not only is it easy to whip up, but it’s also incredibly versatile—perfect for customizing with your favorite herbs, cheeses, or seasonal veggies. Who wouldn’t want a comforting hug in the form of delicious pasta? Curious about how to elevate this classic into your new go-to comfort food? Let’s get cooking! Why is Butter-Toasted Ravioli a Must-Try? Simplicity: This recipe requires minimal cooking skills, making it accessible for everyone, from beginners to seasoned chefs. Flavor Explosion: The combination of melted butter, garlic, and freshly grated Parmesan creates an irresistible aroma and rich taste that will have your guests asking for seconds. Versatile Options: Customize your ravioli with different types of cheese or add vibrant seasonal vegetables for an exciting twist. You can even explore variations like baking for a lighter take! Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes, ensuring you enjoy a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual dinner party, Butter-Toasted Ravioli is guaranteed to impress, making it your new go-to comfort food. Butter-Toasted Ravioli Ingredients For the Ravioli • Fresh or Frozen Cheese Ravioli – This is the main component; frozen is convenient while fresh offers a delicate texture. For the Butter Sauce • Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and flavor; using unsalted allows you to control seasoning. • Olive Oil – Adds depth to the flavor; can be substituted with vegetable oil for a lighter touch. • Minced Garlic – Enhances aroma and flavor; always use fresh for the best effect, although pre-minced can work in a pinch. • Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs that complements the dish beautifully; you can substitute with individual dried herbs like oregano or thyme if needed. For the Topping • Parmesan Cheese – Adds a nutty richness; always use freshly grated for the best melting quality. • Fresh Parsley – Serves as a colorful garnish for freshness; feel free to swap for other herbs like basil or chives. • Red Pepper Flakes – Optional for a bit of heat; you can omit them for a milder version of Butter-Toasted Ravioli. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butter-Toasted Ravioli Step 1: Boil Water Start by filling a large pot with salted water and place it over high heat. Bring the water to a rolling boil, which usually takes about 10 minutes. You’ll want to see steady bubbles and steam coming from the pot before adding the ravioli. This step is crucial to ensure the pasta cooks evenly and retains its shape. Step 2: Cook Ravioli Once the water is boiling, carefully add the fresh or frozen cheese ravioli. If you’re using frozen ravioli, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand. Cook fresh ravioli for 3-5 minutes or frozen for 6-8 minutes, until they float and are tender but still firm (al dente). You’ll know they’re done when they’re puffy and have changed color slightly. Step 3: Drain Ravioli After cooking, use a slotted spoon or colander to drain the ravioli. Be gentle to avoid breaking them. Consider reserving a cup of the pasta water for later, as it can be useful for adjusting the sauce’s consistency. Place the drained ravioli aside for the next step while they wait to be transformed into Butter-Toasted Ravioli. Step 4: Heat Pan In a large skillet, combine unsalted butter and olive oil over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt and foam, which should take about 1-2 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the foam subsides and the butter has a light golden hue, resulting in a lovely base for your Butter-Toasted Ravioli. Step 5: Sauté Garlic Add minced garlic to the skillet, stirring quickly to sauté it. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned, as burnt garlic can add bitterness to the dish. The warmth of the butter will beautifully infuse the garlic flavor into the oil, enhancing the overall taste of your Butter-Toasted Ravioli. Step 6: Add Seasoning Next, stir in the Italian seasoning and lower the heat slightly. Mix well to combine with the garlic and butter, letting the herbs bloom for about 30 seconds. This creates a flavorful foundation for tossing the ravioli, ensuring every bite is infused with those aromatic herbs that make this dish irresistible. Step 7: Toast Ravioli Gently add the drained ravioli into the skillet, tossing them in the butter mixture to coat. Increase the heat to medium-high and toast the ravioli for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they become golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, as the goal is to achieve a delightful crunch on the outside. Step 8: Add Parmesan Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the toasted ravioli, tossing them gently to allow the cheese to melt and cling to each piece. This step should take about 1-2 minutes. The combination of butter and melted cheese creates rich flavors that enhance the deliciousness of your Butter-Toasted Ravioli. Step 9: Garnish and Serve Finally, remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the Butter-Toasted Ravioli to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice, if desired. Your dish should shimmer with the buttery sauce, ready to be enjoyed as a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. Make Ahead Options Butter-Toasted Ravioli are fantastic for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy a delicious dish even on the busiest of nights! You can cook the ravioli and almost complete the recipe up to 24 hours in advance. To prepare, simply boil and drain the ravioli, then store them in an airtight container, drizzled with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, sauté the garlic, toss in the prepped ravioli, and follow the remaining steps for toasting and adding cheese. This way, you retain all the flavors and crunch, ensuring that your Butter-Toasted Ravioli are just as delicious as when freshly made! What to Serve with Butter-Toasted Ravioli? Butter-Toasted Ravioli creates a delightful balance of textures and flavors, making it the perfect centerpiece for your meal. Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery loaf complements the savory ravioli, allowing you to soak up every luscious drop of sauce. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies add a colorful and nutritious side, enhancing the meal with vibrant flavors and textures. Creamy Salad: A light Caesar or a fresh spinach salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the ravioli, balancing out the flavors. Herbed Quinoa: This nutty grain dish offers a healthy, protein-packed option that pairs beautifully with the cheesy pasta. Sautéed Greens: Garlicky sautéed spinach or kale introduce a vibrant, slightly bitter touch that perfectly offsets the rich ravioli. Sparkling Water or Wine: A chilled sparkling water with lemon or a crisp white wine brightens and uplifts the entire dining experience. Chocolate Mousse: End the meal on a sweet note with a light and airy dessert that creates a sumptuous finish after the savory ravioli. Each of these options enhances the comforting nature of your Butter-Toasted Ravioli, transforming dinner into an unforgettable feast that warms the heart. Expert Tips for Butter-Toasted Ravioli Fresh is Best: Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a creamier melt and richer flavor. Pre-grated versions may not achieve the same deliciousness. Watch the Garlic: Garlic can turn bitter if overcooked—sauté just until fragrant, about 30 seconds, to keep your Butter-Toasted Ravioli delightful. Gentle Tossing: Be gentle when tossing the ravioli in the skillet; this helps avoid breaking them and ensures an even golden crust. Texture Check: Taste a ravioli before you’re finished cooking. Aim for al dente—you want a slight bite for the perfect balance with the crispy exterior. Customize Your Dish: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses and veggies, adding unique flavors to your Butter-Toasted Ravioli while keeping it comforting. Butter-Toasted Ravioli Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative and tailor this dish to your taste—it’s all about discovering delightful new flavors! Cheese Swap: Try using different cheeses like Ricotta for a creamier filling or Gorgonzola for a bold twist. The variety allows you to explore different profiles in each bite. Vegetable Medley: Incorporate sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color. Each veggie brings unique textures and flavors, enhancing your Butter-Toasted Ravioli. Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme in place of Italian seasoning. These can brighten the dish, while elevating it to a garden-fresh delight. Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free ravioli to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. They toast just as beautifully, allowing everyone to enjoy this comforting dish. Baked Option: For a lighter take, bake the ravioli instead of pan-frying. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with your favorite herbs before baking for a crispy, guilt-free alternative. Heartiness Boost: Add shredded chicken or ground sausage to the butter sauce for a protein punch. This twist transforms your dish into a heartier meal while keeping it irresistible. Spice It Up: If you enjoy a kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. This simple addition can awaken your taste buds and bring a new dimension of excitement to the ravioli. Creamy Finish: For a richer flavor, stir in a bit of heavy cream after toasting the ravioli. This approach will create a luxurious sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. By experimenting with these variations, you can make your Butter-Toasted Ravioli uniquely yours! For more inspiration, check out light salad pairs and delicious garlic bread to round out your meal perfectly. How to Store and Freeze Butter-Toasted Ravioli Fridge: Store leftover Butter-Toasted Ravioli in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep them moist while preserving their flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the toasted ravioli in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheating: To reheat, warm the ravioli in a skillet over medium heat for best texture, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Make-Ahead Tips: If you plan to make the dish in advance, consider storing the cooked ravioli separately from the sauce to maintain crispness until serving. Butter-Toasted Ravioli Recipe FAQs What kind of ravioli should I use? Absolutely! You can use either fresh or frozen cheese ravioli for this recipe. Fresh ravioli will yield a delicate texture and quicker cooking time (3-5 minutes), while frozen ravioli is incredibly convenient and can be cooked directly from the freezer (6-8 minutes). When selecting ravioli, look for ones made with high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. How should I store leftover Butter-Toasted Ravioli? Very good question! Store your leftover Butter-Toasted Ravioli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to avoid condensation, which can make them soggy. When reheating, a skillet is best to maintain that crispy texture; simply warm them over medium heat for 3-5 minutes. Can I freeze Butter-Toasted Ravioli? Definitely! Freezing is a great way to save any extra servings. First, lay your Butter-Toasted Ravioli in a single layer on a baking sheet so they don’t stick together, and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, which’ll keep them crispy. What if my garlic burns? No worries! If you find your garlic turning brown, you can still recover the dish. Simply remove the garlic immediately and start again with a fresh batch in a new pan with butter. Keep an eye on it while sautéing; garlic only needs about 30 seconds until fragrant. If it burns, it’ll give your Butter-Toasted Ravioli an unpleasant bitterness! Can pets eat Butter-Toasted Ravioli? That’s a thoughtful consideration! While your pets may enjoy the smell of the ravioli, it’s best to avoid feeding them the dish. Garlic and onions can be harmful to dogs and cats. If you want to share a treat with your pet, consider cooking plain pasta with no seasoning and a small amount of plain cheese instead! Crispy Butter-Toasted Ravioli: A Comfort Food Delight This Butter-Toasted Ravioli recipe features crispy, golden ravioli filled with cheese and flavored with garlic, butter, and Parmesan, making it a must-try comfort food. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Ravioli12 ounces Fresh or Frozen Cheese Ravioli Fresh offers a delicate texture, while frozen is convenient.For the Butter Sauce4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Provides richness and flavor.2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can be substituted with vegetable oil.3 cloves Minced Garlic Use fresh for best effect.1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning Or substitute with individual dried herbs if needed.For the Topping1 cup Parmesan Cheese Use freshly grated for best melting quality.2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley Can substitute with other herbs.1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional for a bit of heat. Equipment Large Potslotted spoon or colanderLarge SkilletSpatula Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Butter-Toasted RavioliStart by filling a large pot with salted water and place it over high heat. Bring the water to a rolling boil, which usually takes about 10 minutes.Once the water is boiling, carefully add the fresh or frozen cheese ravioli. Cook fresh ravioli for 3-5 minutes or frozen for 6-8 minutes, until they float and are tender but still firm (al dente).After cooking, use a slotted spoon or colander to drain the ravioli. Consider reserving a cup of pasta water for later.In a large skillet, combine unsalted butter and olive oil over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt and foam for about 1-2 minutes until it has a light golden hue.Add minced garlic to the skillet, stirring quickly to sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.Stir in the Italian seasoning and lower the heat slightly. Let the herbs bloom for about 30 seconds.Gently add the drained ravioli into the skillet, tossing them in the butter mixture to coat. Toast the ravioli for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the toasted ravioli, tossing gently to allow the cheese to melt and cling.Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the Butter-Toasted Ravioli to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1plateCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 15gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg NotesFeel free to customize the dish with different cheeses and veggies for unique flavors. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!