ravioli cheese filling recipe

ravioli cheese filling recipe

The Best ravioli cheese filling recipe

I’m so excited to share this ravioli cheese filling recipe with you. It’s a classic Italian dish that’s been a staple in my family for years. The rich, creamy filling is made with a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, which gives it a beautiful texture and flavor.

I love how the filling is light and airy, yet still packed with flavor. It’s perfect for a special occasion or just a cozy night in with the family. My kids adore helping me assemble the ravioli, and it’s a great way to get them involved in the kitchen.

Plus, it’s relatively easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. I’ve even added some fresh herbs like parsley and basil to give it an extra boost of flavor. The best part?

It freezes beautifully, so you can make a big batch and enjoy it all year round. I’ve served this dish at countless family gatherings and potlucks, and it’s always been a hit. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or a fun activity to do with the kids, this ravioli cheese filling recipe is sure to please.

And let’s not forget about the health benefits – with its rich source of calcium from the Parmesan cheese, this dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. As an added bonus, it’s relatively low in calories compared to other pasta fillings.

Classic Ricotta Ravioli Filling

Classic Ricotta Ravioli Filling

4.9 from 1328 votes

A creamy, savory filling made with ricotta, Parmesan, and fresh herbs. Perfect for homemade ravioli, this filling is simple to prepare and delivers a rich, satisfying flavor.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time25 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 280 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Filling

15 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
1 tsp chopped fresh basil
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg

👨‍🍳Directions

1Drain the ricotta cheese in a fine mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture.
2This step ensures a creamy, not watery, filling that holds together well.
3In a medium mixing bowl, combine the drained ricotta, grated Parmesan, egg, parsley, basil, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
4Mix with a fork until all ingredients are evenly incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
5Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the filling for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6Use the filling immediately or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Fork
Measuring cups and spoons
Cheesecloth (optional)
Plastic wrap

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 280 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 11g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 520mg🌾Total Carbs: 6g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 1g🥩Protein: 22g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, use part-skim ricotta. Add a pinch of lemon zest for a fresh twist. Ensure the filling is well chilled before using to make ravioli assembly easier.

Watch Video Of How Classic Ricotta Ravioli Filling Works

This ravioli cheese filling is a versatile recipe that works for any occasion, from a quick family dinner to a festive holiday meal. I love that it is simple to make but tastes like something you would get at a fancy Italian restaurant.

You can serve it with a light tomato sauce, a brown butter sage sauce, or just a drizzle of olive oil and fresh Parmesan. For storage, you can keep the filled ravioli in the fridge for up to two days, but they are best cooked fresh.

To freeze, place the ravioli in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When you are ready to eat, cook them straight from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.

Leftover cooked ravioli can be reheated in a skillet with a little sauce or butter, and they still taste great the next day. This recipe is always a good idea because it brings people together and makes everyone feel special.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ricotta Ravioli Filling

1. Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes, you can substitute cottage cheese, but you need to drain it well and blend it until smooth. The texture will be slightly different, but it still works in a pinch. Just make sure to press out as much liquid as possible to avoid soggy ravioli.

2. How do I keep the ravioli from falling apart while cooking?

The most important thing is to seal the edges properly. Use a little water or egg wash around the edges before pressing them together. Also, make sure your filling is not too wet, and do not overstuff the ravioli. Cook them in gently boiling water and give them a gentle stir right after adding them.

3. Can I make this filling ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the filling up to two days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using. You can also freeze the filling for up to a month, but thaw it overnight in the fridge before assembling the ravioli.

4. What is the best cheese combination for this filling?

The classic trio of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan works best. Ricotta gives creaminess, mozzarella adds stretch, and Parmesan provides saltiness. You can also add a bit of pecorino romano for an extra sharp flavor, but keep the amounts balanced so the filling does not become too salty.

5. Can I add spinach or other herbs to this filling?

Yes, adding cooked and well-drained spinach is a great way to boost nutrition and flavor. Just chop it finely and mix it in. You can also add fresh basil, oregano, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Just remember to adjust the salt because some herbs can be salty.

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