Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that brings the cozy vibes of a restaurant into your home, you’re in for a treat with this Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara! This recipe is one I always turn to when I want something comforting yet quick to prepare. With creamy sauce enveloping tender ravioli, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings where everyone will be asking for seconds.

What makes this dish truly special is its rich flavors and simple ingredients. You can whip it up in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those evenings when time is short but hunger is high. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, so you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy sauce and cheesy ravioli; it’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep the sauce in advance and just boil the ravioli when you’re ready to eat!
• Rich Flavor: The combination of heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and turkey gives this dish a luxurious taste that feels indulgent.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out components based on what you have at home or cater to dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create a hearty meal. Let’s gather everything you need for our Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara!

For the Ravioli

• 1 (20-ounce) package cheese-filled ravioli (fresh or frozen)
• 1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)

For the Sauce

• 4 ounces turkey strips 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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways you can mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms instead of turkey for a different flavor profile.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or peas during the last couple of minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Cheese overload: If you’re a cheese lover like me, feel free to add more Parmesan or even a sprinkle of mozzarella on top before serving.
• Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat in your carbonara.

How to Make Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara

Step 1: Cook the Ravioli

Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Once it’s at a rolling boil, gently add the ravioli. Cooking them according to package instructions ensures they come out perfectly tender and ready to soak up all that creamy goodness.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey

While your ravioli cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add diced turkey strips or bacon and cook until crispy. This step adds not only flavor but also texture that complements the soft ravioli beautifully.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

Once your turkey is golden brown, stir in minced garlic and let it sauté for about 30 seconds. The aroma will fill your kitchen! Cooking garlic briefly ensures it becomes fragrant without burning.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Pour in heavy cream and milk into the skillet with turkey. Stir well as you bring it to a gentle simmer. Adding egg yolks next will give your sauce its silky texture—just be sure to whisk them well before adding!

Step 5: Combine It All

When your ravioli is done cooking, drain it and add it directly into the skillet with the sauce. Gently toss everything together until each piece of ravioli is coated in that luscious sauce. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley before serving!

Now you’ve got yourself an amazing Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara

Creating a delicious Olive Garden-inspired dish in your own kitchen is easier than you think! Here are some tips to ensure your ravioli carbonara turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and real Parmesan cheese truly enhance the flavors of this dish, giving it that authentic taste you crave.
• Don’t overcook the ravioli: Cooking the ravioli just until they float ensures they remain tender and doesn’t turn mushy, keeping the texture delightful.
• Whisk the egg yolks carefully: Whisking the yolks before adding them to the hot sauce helps prevent them from scrambling, resulting in a creamy texture that coats the ravioli beautifully.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone has different preferences when it comes to salt and pepper. Taste your sauce before serving to find that perfect balance for you and your guests.
• Add veggies for extra nutrition: Consider tossing in some spinach or peas right before serving. They not only add color but also boost the nutritional value of your meal!

How to Serve Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara

Presenting your Olive Garden-inspired ravioli carbonara in an appealing way can make all the difference during mealtime. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness on top of your creamy dish.
• Cracked pepper: A light dusting of cracked black pepper offers a hint of spice and visual appeal, making each bowl irresistible.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: This classic side is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate. Its crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the creamy ravioli.
• Caesar salad (dressing without anchovies): A crisp Caesar salad adds a refreshing crunch to complement the richness of the carbonara. The romaine lettuce and croutons provide a satisfying texture contrast.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus offer a colorful and nutritious addition to your meal, balancing out the heaviness of the pasta.
• Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli brings a vibrant green hue to your plate while also providing fiber and vitamins, making it a wholesome pairing with your carbonara.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create a memorable dining experience that’s sure to impress family and friends. Enjoy every creamy bite of your Olive Garden-inspired ravioli carbonara!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy a delicious homemade dish throughout the week. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding the whole family, this recipe stores well and can be easily reheated.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the ravioli carbonara to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze the dish, let it cool completely.
• Portion out servings into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Remove as much air as possible from bags before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if it seems dry.
• Alternatively, microwave on medium power in 30-second intervals until heated through, stirring between intervals.

FAQs

Have questions about this delicious dish? Here are some common ones!

Can I use different types of ravioli in this Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara?

Absolutely! You can use any cheese-filled ravioli you prefer. Mushroom, spinach, or even butternut squash ravioli will work beautifully and add unique flavors.

How can I make Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara healthier?

To make this recipe lighter, consider using low-fat cream and milk. You can also add more vegetables like peas or spinach for added nutrition without significantly impacting flavor.

Can I prepare Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara without heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with a mixture of Greek yogurt and milk for a lower-fat version while still maintaining a creamy texture.

Is Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This dish stores well in the fridge and freezer, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping. Just follow storage instructions for best results!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara as much as I do! It’s a comforting and satisfying dish that brings a taste of Italy right to your kitchen. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is bound to impress. Don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations; I would love to hear how it turns out for you!