Creamy Four Cheese Ravioli with Herbs

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a plate of perfectly cooked ravioli bathed in a luscious, creamy sauce. Creamy Four Cheese Ravioli with Herbs is the epitome of indulgence, combining the richness of ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, and asiago cheeses with fresh aromatic herbs.

The delicate pasta envelopes the creamy cheese filling, and the herby cream sauce enhances every bite. This dish is a celebration of Italian flavors, perfect for date nights, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines luxury and simplicity in one dish. The filling is creamy but not heavy, the herbs bring freshness, and the sauce is rich yet delicate, coating every ravioli perfectly.

What truly sets this recipe apart is its balance of textures and flavors—the silky pasta, gooey cheese center, and aromatic sauce make each bite heavenly. It’s comforting yet sophisticated, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Cheesy Goodness: The combination of four cheeses creates a deeply flavorful filling.
• Creamy Herb Sauce: Fresh herbs elevate the sauce, giving it an elegant and fresh finish.
• Simple Yet Impressive: Easy to make but restaurant-quality presentation.
• Family Favorite: Loved by both adults and kids.
• Customizable: You can add vegetables, protein, or spices to suit your taste.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 520 kcal per serving
• Course: Main Course / Pasta Dish
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

For the Ravioli Filling:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan
• 1/4 cup grated asiago cheese
• 1 egg yolk
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley

For the Creamy Herb Sauce:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil (or 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Cooking Ravioli:

• 12–16 store-bought or homemade ravioli (cheese-filled)
• Salted water for boiling

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley or basil
• Extra grated parmesan
• Cracked black pepper

Cooking Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, and asiago.
2. Add the egg yolk, garlic powder, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Step 2: Fill the Ravioli

1. If using store-bought ravioli, skip this step.
2. If making fresh pasta, place a teaspoon of filling on each pasta square and cover with another square, sealing edges with a fork or fingers.

Step 3: Cook the Ravioli

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Gently add ravioli and cook for 3–5 minutes (or per package instructions) until they float to the surface.
3. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Herb Sauce

1. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Stir in parmesan, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Combine Ravioli and Sauce

1. Gently add cooked ravioli to the skillet with the sauce.
2. Toss lightly to coat each ravioli with the creamy herb sauce.
3. Heat through for 1–2 minutes.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prepare filling: Mix ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, asiago, egg yolk, garlic powder, parsley, salt, and pepper.
2. Fill ravioli: Spoon cheese mixture into pasta squares and seal (if making fresh).
3. Cook ravioli: Boil salted water, cook ravioli until they float, then drain.
4. Make sauce: Sauté garlic in butter, add cream, cheeses, and herbs, simmer to thicken.
5. Combine: Toss cooked ravioli in creamy herb sauce, heat through.
6. Serve: Garnish with parsley, basil, parmesan, and cracked black pepper.

How to Serve

• Serve immediately while warm.
• Pair with a crisp side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• For an elegant presentation, drizzle a little extra cream on top and sprinkle fresh herbs.

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh, high-quality cheeses for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook ravioli; they should be tender but firm.
• Fold gently when tossing ravioli in the sauce to prevent tearing.
• Fresh herbs make a big difference in flavor and aroma.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it.

Variations

1. Spinach and Cheese Ravioli: Add finely chopped sautéed spinach to the filling.
2. Mushroom and Cheese Ravioli: Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
3. Spicy Herb Sauce: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream sauce.
4. Protein Boost: Toss cooked chicken, shrimp, or pancetta with the ravioli.
5. Vegan Option: Use vegan ricotta and cream, with nutritional yeast in place of parmesan.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store cooked ravioli in an airtight container with sauce for up to 2 days.
• Freezer: Freeze uncooked filled ravioli on a tray for 1–2 months. Cook from frozen by boiling slightly longer. Sauce can be frozen separately for 1 month.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling ravioli
• Skillet or sauté pan for sauce
• Mixing bowl for filling
• Whisk or spoon for stirring sauce
• Optional: pasta maker if making fresh ravioli

FAQ

Q1: Can I use store-bought ravioli?
A: Yes, it works perfectly and saves time.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can prepare ravioli filling and sauce in advance, but cook ravioli just before serving for best texture.

Q3: How do I prevent ravioli from sticking?
A: Dust fresh ravioli with flour and stir gently in boiling water.

Q4: Can I use different cheeses?
A: Absolutely! Gouda, fontina, or even goat cheese can be used.

Q5: How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?
A: Simmer longer or add a little more grated parmesan.

Conclusion

Creamy Four Cheese Ravioli with Herbs is a dish that embodies comfort and elegance in every bite. With a rich, cheesy filling and a luxurious, herby cream sauce, it’s perfect for impressing guests or indulging yourself. Its versatility and ease make it a go-to recipe for pasta lovers.

Once you try this recipe, it will undoubtedly become a favorite in your culinary repertoire, offering warmth, flavor, and sophistication on every plate.