Million Dollar Ravioli is a decadent twist on classic Italian comfort food that’s sure to impress. Packed with a rich blend of cheeses, herbs, and savory fillings, this dish elevates traditional ravioli to a whole new level of indulgence. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving something extraordinary, this recipe delivers bold flavors and a luxurious texture.
We love how this recipe combines creamy ricotta, sharp Parmesan, and a hint of garlic to create a filling that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Plus, the homemade pasta adds a fresh, tender bite that store-bought just can’t match. Get ready to wow your family and friends with a meal that’s as elegant as it is satisfying.
Ingredients
To create the Million Dollar Ravioli that truly stands out, we use only the finest ingredients for each component. These carefully selected elements work together to build a rich, luxurious flavor and perfect texture that defines our recipe.
Ravioli Dough Ingredients
We start by making a fresh, tender pasta dough, which serves as the foundation for our Million Dollar Ravioli. Using high-quality ingredients ensures elasticity and a delicate bite.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1-2 tablespoons water, as needed
Filling Ingredients
Our filling combines creamy and sharp cheeses with herbs and garlic to deliver an indulgent taste that will impress every palate.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Ricotta cheese | 1 cup | Well drained |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup | Freshly grated |
| Garlic cloves | 2 | Minced |
| Fresh basil leaves | 1/4 cup | Finely chopped |
| Fresh parsley | 2 tablespoons | Finely chopped |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | To taste |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | Freshly ground |
| Lemon zest | 1 teaspoon | Finely grated |
Sauce Ingredients
Our Million Dollar sauce complements the filling with a creamy richness and subtle herbaceous notes to enhance every bite.
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Garnish Ingredients
We finish the dish with elegant garnishes that add both flavor and visual appeal.
- Fresh basil leaves, whole or chiffonade
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
- Freshly ground black pepper
Equipment Needed
To craft the Million Dollar Ravioli perfectly, we need the right tools to ensure each step—from dough to plating—is smooth and precise.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Mixing Bowls: Use large bowls to combine the dough ingredients and another for preparing the filling.
- Pastry Board or Clean Countertop: A flat surface for kneading and rolling the pasta dough evenly.
- Rolling Pin or Pasta Machine: For rolling the dough out thin enough to form delicate ravioli. A pasta machine offers consistent thickness.
- Sharp Knife or Ravioli Cutter: To cut uniform ravioli shapes easily with clean edges.
- Fork: To press and seal edges of the ravioli, preventing filling leaks.
- Spoon: For portioning the cheese and herb filling precisely.
- Large Pot: For boiling the ravioli; ideally, one that fits plenty of water for even cooking.
- Slotted Spoon: To gently lift cooked ravioli from the water without tearing.
- Saucepan: For preparing the creamy Parmesan sauce that elevates our Million Dollar Ravioli.
- Grater: To freshly grate Parmesan cheese for the filling, sauce, and garnish.
Additional Helpful Equipment
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Kitchen Scale | Measure ingredients accurately |
| Pasta Drying Rack | Optional; for air-drying fresh ravioli |
| Silicone Baking Mat | Use under the dough during rolling |
| Fine Mesh Strainer | Drain ricotta well to avoid wet filling |
By equipping ourselves with these tools, we guarantee an efficient workflow and a stunning final dish that matches the luxurious promise of this Million Dollar Ravioli Recipe.
Prep Work
Before we dive into assembling our Million Dollar Ravioli, precise prep work sets the foundation. Organizing the dough, filling, and sauce components is essential for a smooth cooking process and exceptional taste.
Preparing the Dough
To create a tender elastic dough for our Million Dollar Ravioli, follow these clear steps:
- Measure 2 cups of all-purpose flour and sift it to aerate.
- Create a mound of flour on a clean surface and make a well in the center.
- Crack 3 large eggs into the well, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- Mix the eggs and oil gently with a fork, slowly incorporating the flour from edges.
- Knead the dough by hand for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes to relax gluten.
This rest period ensures the dough is supple and easier to roll thin for perfect ravioli pockets.
Making the Filling
Our Million Dollar Ravioli filling balances creamy cheese with fragrant herbs and robust flavors. Here’s the precise method:
- Drain 1 1/2 cups of ricotta cheese thoroughly using a fine mesh strainer for 20 minutes to avoid watery filling.
- Combine the ricotta with 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese in a mixing bowl.
- Add 2 cloves of minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil, and 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley.
- Season with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.
- Mix thoroughly until creamy and smooth with no lumps.
- Chill the filling in the refrigerator while the dough rests to let flavors meld.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Ricotta cheese | 1 1/2 cups | Well-drained |
| Parmesan cheese | 3/4 cup | Freshly grated |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Fresh basil | 2 tablespoons | Chopped |
| Fresh parsley | 1 tablespoon | Finely chopped |
| Kosher salt | 1/2 teaspoon | – |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | Freshly ground |
Preparing the Sauce
We finish our Million Dollar Ravioli with a luxurious creamy sauce packed with flavor. Prepare it as follows:
- Melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add 2 cloves minced garlic; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in 1/2 cup heavy cream and stir continuously to combine.
- Optional: Add 1/4 cup dry white wine to enhance depth; simmer for 3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce thickens.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Keep sauce warm over low heat until serving.
“This sauce envelops the ravioli with creamy richness, elevating every bite of our Million Dollar Ravioli.”
Our detailed prep ensures each component—dough, filling, sauce—is expertly crafted and ready for assembly into a dish that truly lives up to its luxurious name.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create our Million Dollar Ravioli with perfect texture, rich filling, and luscious sauce.
Rolling and Cutting the Dough
- Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough using a rolling pin or pasta machine. Aim for a thin, even sheet about 1/16 inch thick.
- Cut the dough into squares measuring 3 inches by 3 inches using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
- Arrange the squares on a floured tray to prevent sticking as you prepare the filling.
Filling and Sealing the Ravioli
- Place a teaspoon of the prepared ricotta-Parmesan filling in the center of each dough square.
- Lightly brush the edges of the dough squares with beaten egg to act as glue.
- Fold the dough over to form a triangle or rectangle, depending on your shape preference.
- Press the edges firmly to seal, ensuring no air pockets remain.
- Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative and secure seal.
| Step | Key Tip |
|---|---|
| Filling amount | Use exactly 1 teaspoon per ravioli |
| Sealing technique | Brush edges with egg for strong adhesion |
| Crimping edges | Prevent stuffing leakage during cooking |
Cooking the Ravioli
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Gently add the ravioli in batches, avoiding overcrowding.
- Cook for 3 to 4 minutes or until they float to the surface and are tender but firm.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer cooked ravioli to a warm plate.
Making the Sauce
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and let it simmer until slightly thickened, around 3-4 minutes.
- Add ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
- For added depth, optionally deglaze the pan with ¼ cup dry white wine and simmer until reduced by half.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Butter | 2 tablespoons | Melted over medium heat |
| Garlic (minced) | 1 clove | Sautéed until fragrant |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | Simmered to thicken |
| Parmesan (grated) | ½ cup | Stirred until fully melted |
| Dry white wine | ¼ cup (optional) | Reduces to concentrate flavor |
Combining Ravioli and Sauce
- Carefully add the cooked ravioli to the skillet with the warm sauce.
- Gently toss to coat each ravioli evenly in the rich sauce.
- Cook together for 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Plate the ravioli and garnish with fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of olive oil, and extra Parmesan cheese.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Million Dollar Ravioli experience, thoughtful serving suggestions enhance both presentation and flavor balance. Here are proven ways to impress with this luxurious dish.
Plating the Ravioli
- Use a shallow, wide bowl or elegant white plate to showcase the ravioli’s delicate shape and sauce coating.
- Place 4 to 6 ravioli pieces per plate for a refined portion. Avoid overcrowding for visual appeal.
- Spoon a generous layer of the creamy sauce beneath the ravioli for a stunning contrast and moisture.
Garnishes for Flavor and Visual Appeal
Enhance the dish with these finishing touches:
| Garnish | Purpose | Application Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh basil leaves | Add herbaceous brightness | Tear and scatter gently |
| Grated Parmesan | Boost umami depth | Sprinkle just before serving |
| Drizzle of olive oil | Adds richness and shine | Use high-quality extra virgin |
| Cracked black pepper | Contrast and slight heat | Grind freshly over the top |
Side Pairings
Balance the richness of the Million Dollar Ravioli with lighter accompaniments:
- Arugula salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette for a peppery, refreshing crunch.
- Steamed or roasted asparagus to bring freshness and texture.
- Crusty garlic bread to soak up extra sauce without overpowering.
Beverage Pairings
Pair this decadent ravioli with drinks that complement creamy and cheesy notes:
- A dry Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio white wine to cut through richness.
- Sparkling water with a lemon wedge for palate cleansing.
- For non-alcoholic, try iced herbal tea such as chamomile or mint.
“Serving is as important as crafting the dish itself; a perfect presentation engages all senses and heightens the luxurious dining experience.”
Following these serving suggestions, we transform our Million Dollar Ravioli from a spectacular creation into an unforgettable meal.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing our Million Dollar Ravioli in advance allows us to enjoy a luxurious meal with less stress on the day of serving. Here are essential make-ahead tips to keep this dish fresh and flavorful:
Prepare and Store the Dough
- After mixing and kneading the dough to a smooth elastic consistency, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours. This resting period improves elasticity and makes rolling easier.
- Before rolling the dough, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes for better flexibility.
Make and Refrigerate the Filling
- Combine the ricotta, Parmesan, garlic, and herbs as directed.
- Store the filling in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- For extended storage, freeze the filling in a sealed bag for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before use.
Assemble and Freeze the Ravioli
- Fill and seal the ravioli as described.
- Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet without touching to avoid sticking.
- Freeze until solid for about 1 to 2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
- Frozen ravioli can be cooked directly from frozen by adding a couple extra minutes to boiling time.
Prepare and Store Sauce
- Make the creamy Parmesan sauce and cool it to room temperature.
- Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain smooth sauce texture.
| Component | Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dough | Wrapped in plastic wrap | Up to 24 hours | Let sit 15 mins at room temp before use |
| Filling | Airtight container | Up to 2 days | Freeze for up to 1 month |
| Assembled Ravioli | Freeze on baking sheet | Up to 1 month | Cook from frozen, add 2 extra minutes boiling |
| Sauce | Airtight container | Up to 3 days | Reheat gently to avoid curdling |
“Chilling and freezing steps not only preserve the freshness but also enhance the dough’s texture and filling’s flavor,” says our culinary experience.
Following these make-ahead strategies ensures that when it’s time to serve our Million Dollar Ravioli, the process is streamlined without sacrificing quality or taste.
Storage and Reheating
To maintain the luxurious flavor and perfect texture of our Million Dollar Ravioli, careful storage and reheating are essential. Follow these clear steps to enjoy the rich taste and creamy sauce even after preparing in advance.
Storing Million Dollar Ravioli
- Refrigeration:
- Store cooked ravioli in an airtight container.
- Keep the ravioli and the creamy sauce separately to preserve texture.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezing:
- For longer storage, freeze uncooked ravioli on a parchment-lined tray first.
- Once frozen solid, transfer ravioli to a sealed freezer bag.
- Freeze for up to 1 month to maintain the freshness and flavor.
- Freeze sauce separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 weeks.
| Storage Method | Item | Container Type | Max Storage Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Cooked ravioli | Airtight container | Up to 3 days |
| Refrigeration | Creamy sauce | Airtight container | Up to 3 days |
| Freezing | Uncooked ravioli | Freezer bag (after flash freeze) | Up to 1 month |
| Freezing | Creamy sauce | Freezer-safe container | Up to 3 weeks |
Reheating Million Dollar Ravioli
- From Refrigeration:
- Gently warm the creamy sauce over low heat in a saucepan stirring occasionally.
- Add cooked ravioli to the sauce, tossing carefully to prevent tearing.
- Heat through for 3 to 5 minutes until hot but not boiling.
- From Frozen:
- Boil a large pot of salted water.
- Add frozen ravioli directly without thawing.
- Cook for 3 to 5 minutes or until they float to the surface.
- Drain well and reheat sauce separately.
- Combine ravioli with warmed sauce just before serving.
“Proper storage and gentle reheating preserve the delicate balance of creamy filling and tender pasta that make Million Dollar Ravioli truly unforgettable.”
Tips for Optimal Quality
- Always keep ravioli and sauce stored separately to avoid sogginess.
- Avoid microwaving ravioli directly; this can cause uneven heating and compromise texture.
- When reheating sauce, use low heat to maintain the silky richness without curdling.
With these storage and reheating methods, we can enjoy the sumptuous experience of Million Dollar Ravioli anytime, maintaining its elegant flavors and exceptional texture.
Conclusion
Crafting Million Dollar Ravioli is a rewarding experience that brings elegance and rich flavors to your table. With a bit of preparation and attention to detail, this dish can become a go-to for special occasions or an impressive weeknight treat.
By following the tips for storage and reheating, we can enjoy this luxurious meal anytime without compromising its quality. Let’s embrace the joy of creating and sharing something truly memorable with every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed to make Million Dollar Ravioli?
You’ll need all-purpose flour, eggs, olive oil, salt for the dough; ricotta, Parmesan, garlic, fresh herbs, and seasoning for the filling; and heavy cream, butter, Parmesan, garlic, and optional white wine for the creamy sauce.
Can I prepare Million Dollar Ravioli ahead of time?
Yes, you can make both the ravioli and sauce ahead. Store uncooked ravioli in airtight containers in the fridge or freezer. Keep sauce separate and refrigerate. This helps preserve freshness and flavor.
How should I reheat Million Dollar Ravioli without losing quality?
Avoid microwaving. Gently reheat ravioli in simmering water until warm. Reheat sauce slowly on the stove. Keep pasta and sauce separate until serving to maintain texture and creaminess.
What tools do I need to make this dish efficiently?
Essential tools include a rolling pin or pasta machine, mixing bowls, sharp knife or ravioli cutter, slotted spoon, and a large pot for boiling.
What is the best way to serve Million Dollar Ravioli?
Serve in shallow bowls or elegant plates for presentation. Garnish with fresh basil, grated Parmesan, and a drizzle of olive oil. Pair with light salads and crisp white wine for balance.
How long does it take to cook Million Dollar Ravioli?
Fresh ravioli cook quickly—usually 2-4 minutes in gently boiling water until they float to the surface, indicating they’re done.
Can I customize the filling in Million Dollar Ravioli?
Yes, while the original uses ricotta, Parmesan, and herbs, you can add other cheeses, vegetables, or meats to suit your taste. Just keep the filling well-drained for best results.
Is Million Dollar Ravioli suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely! Its rich flavors, elegant presentation, and creamy sauce make it perfect for impressing guests at celebrations or dinner parties.