Save Cheese ravioli tossed in a creamy carbonara sauce with crispy pancetta, Parmesan, and fresh parsley. This Italian-inspired comfort dish delivers rich, savory flavors with minimal effort perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.
This Italian-inspired comfort dish delivers rich, savory flavors with minimal effort perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- For the Ravioli: 567 grams cheese-filled ravioli (fresh or frozen), 1 teaspoon salt, for boiling water
- For the Carbonara Sauce: 113 grams pancetta or bacon, diced, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 240 milliliters heavy cream, 120 milliliters whole milk (or use all cream for extra richness), 50 grams Parmesan cheese, grated, 1 teaspoon ground black pepper, 0.5 teaspoon salt, 2 large egg yolks, whisked, 28 grams unsalted butter
- For Garnish: 25 grams Parmesan cheese, grated, 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped, Cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Fill a large pot with water, add 1 teaspoon salt, and bring to a boil. Add the ravioli and cook according to package instructions (3–5 minutes if fresh, 8–10 minutes if frozen). Reserve 120 milliliters of the pasta cooking water. Drain ravioli and set aside.
- Step 2:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook diced pancetta or bacon until crisp, about 4–5 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 1 tablespoon of rendered fat in the skillet.
- Step 3:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Reduce the heat to medium-low, then add heavy cream and milk. Stir gently for 2–3 minutes to warm. Add grated Parmesan, black pepper, and salt whisk until the cheese melts into the sauce.
- Step 4:
- In a small bowl, whisk egg yolks. Gradually add several tablespoons of the warm sauce to the yolks, whisking constantly to temper. Slowly pour the tempered yolks back into the skillet, stirring continuously. Cook for 2 more minutes until the sauce thickens slightly (do not boil).
- Step 5:
- Add the cooked ravioli to the skillet and toss gently to coat in the sauce. Return pancetta or bacon to the pan and mix well. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Step 6:
- Divide ravioli among serving plates. Top with extra grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, and cracked black pepper. Serve immediately.
Save This recipe brings back memories of cozy Italian family dinners filled with laughter and delicious food shared around the table.
Notes
For a vegetarian version, omit pancetta or bacon and sauté mushrooms in olive oil for added flavor. Adjust sauce consistency with pasta water as needed avoid overcooking ravioli to prevent them from breaking. Freshly grated Parmesan delivers the best flavor. Pair with a crisp Pinot Grigio or light Italian red wine.
Required Tools
Large pot, Large skillet, Slotted spoon or strainer, Whisk, Ladle or measuring cup, Mixing bowl, Chefs knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (ravioli), Eggs, Milk (cheese, cream, butter). May contain Tree nuts (if using certain brands of cheese). If unsure, double-check all labels for hidden allergens.
Save This creamy ravioli carbonara is a delicious way to transform simple ingredients into a comforting meal everyone will love.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Temper the egg yolks by slowly whisking in warm sauce before adding them back to the skillet. Keep heat low and avoid boiling once combined.
- → Can I use frozen ravioli for this dish?
Yes, frozen cheese ravioli can be used. Cook according to package instructions, typically 8–10 minutes, until tender.
- → What can I substitute for pancetta in a vegetarian version?
Sautéed mushrooms in olive oil provide a savory alternative to pancetta, adding depth and texture to the sauce.
- → How do I adjust the sauce consistency?
Use reserved pasta cooking water to gradually thin the sauce if it becomes too thick, stirring gently to reach desired texture.
- → What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp Pinot Grigio or a light Italian red wine complements the creamy, savory flavors beautifully.
- → Can the dish be prepared ahead?
For best texture, prepare just before serving. If needed, refrigerate components separately and gently reheat, stirring to maintain sauce smoothness.