As the chill of fall sets in, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of a kitchen filled with comforting aromas. This Cozy Butternut Squash Ravioli with Sage Brown Butter Sauce is just the project to embrace during those brisk weekends. Crafting homemade pasta can feel like a culinary adventure, and the satisfaction of making each ravioli from scratch is truly unparalleled. Not only is this dish a delightful way to showcase seasonal produce, but the combination of sweet butternut squash and nutty sage brown butter delivers a comforting depth that’s perfect for cozying up with family or friends. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself, this dish promises both delicious flavors and a fun, engaging cooking experience. Ready to roll up your sleeves and get started? Let’s dive into this delightful pasta-making journey together!
Why make Butternut Squash Ravioli?
Comforting and Cozy: This homemade dish brings the warmth of fall right to your table, perfect for chilly evenings.
Deliciously Seasonal: Utilizing butternut squash highlights the best of autumn’s produce, offering natural sweetness and creaminess.
Fun Cooking Project: Making ravioli from scratch is a rewarding culinary adventure that anyone can tackle, especially with helpful tips provided!
Rich Flavor Profile: Paired with a nutty sage brown butter sauce, each bite bursts with flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Versatile for Occasions: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to impress your guests.
Customization Options: Feel free to experiment with different fillings or shapes, including our optional ghost-shaped ravioli for a fun twist!
So gather your ingredients and get ready to create a dish that’s not just a meal, but a warm, comforting experience!
Butternut Squash Ravioli Ingredients
• To make your cozy butternut squash ravioli, you’ll need a handful of fresh, inviting ingredients that come together to create magic in your kitchen.
For the Filling
- Butternut Squash – Provides a sweet and creamy filling; substitute with pumpkin if out of season.
- Onion – Adds depth and sweetness; yellow onions work best, but shallots can provide a milder flavor.
- Garlic – Enhances flavor; fresh is recommended, though powdered garlic can serve in a pinch.
- Brown Sugar – Contributes sweetness and caramelization; honey can replace it but will slightly alter the flavor.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds umami and creaminess; substitute with nutritional yeast for a vegan version.
For the Pasta Dough
- Flour – Forms the pasta structure; use all-purpose flour or a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option.
- Eggs – Binds the pasta dough and adds richness; flaxseed meal with water serves as a vegan substitute.
- Olive Oil – Used for dough, adds richness; avocado oil can be a neutral-flavored alternative.
For the Sage Brown Butter Sauce
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness in the sauce; replace with vegan butter or olive oil for a dairy-free option.
- Fresh Sage Leaves – Infuse the sauce with aromatic flavor; dried sage can be used but will change the taste.
- Lemon Juice – Brightens the sauce; vinegar can substitute if lemon is unavailable.
For Seasoning
- Salt – Balances flavors; use kosher salt for both cooking and finishing.
- Pepper – Adds warmth; freshly cracked black pepper is preferred for best flavor.
With these ingredients on hand, you’re well on your way to creating delightful butternut squash ravioli that will warm your heart and home!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butternut Squash Ravioli
Step 1: Prepare Butternut Squash Filling
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and arrange the diced butternut squash, chopped onion, and garlic cloves on a baking sheet. Drizzle generously with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and freshly cracked pepper. Roast for 30 minutes until the squash is tender and caramelized, then let it cool before blending the mixture with brown sugar and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Chill the filling in the refrigerator for added flavor.
Step 2: Make Fresh Pasta Dough
In a food processor, combine all-purpose flour, eggs, and a dash of olive oil. Pulse until the mixture forms a cohesive ball of dough; this should take around 1-2 minutes. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This will give the gluten time to relax, making it easier to roll out later for your homemade butternut squash ravioli.
Step 3: Shape Ravioli
Dust a clean work surface with flour and roll out the chilled pasta dough to your desired thinness. Using an ice cube tray, fill each cavity with the chilled butternut squash filling. Place another layer of rolled-out dough over the tray, pressing down gently around each filling mound to remove air pockets. Cut individual ravioli with a pastry cutter or knife, ensuring the edges are well-sealed to avoid any filling leakage during cooking.
Step 4: Cook Ravioli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and gently add the prepared butternut squash ravioli. Cook them for 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface, indicating they are done. Use a slotted spoon to remove the ravioli from the water, allowing them to drain well. At this stage, keep them warm in a covered dish while you prepare the sauce.
Step 5: Make Sage Brown Butter Sauce
In a skillet over medium heat, melt unsalted butter until it begins to foam and turn golden brown, about 3-5 minutes. Add fresh sage leaves and cook for another minute until they become crisp and aromatic. Pour in a splash of lemon juice to brighten the sauce while removing it from heat. This sage brown butter sauce will add a delightful nuttiness to your cozy butternut squash ravioli.
Step 6: Serve
Carefully toss the cooked ravioli in the sage brown butter sauce until well-coated, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Plate them up with a sprinkling of extra Parmesan cheese and a few more crispy sage leaves on top for garnish. Your delightful butternut squash ravioli is now ready to be shared and savored with loved ones!
How to Store and Freeze Butternut Squash Ravioli
Fridge: Store cooked butternut squash ravioli in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave with a splash of water.
Freezer: Uncooked ravioli can be frozen for up to 2 months. Arrange them on a parchment-lined tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container.
Thawing: To cook frozen butternut squash ravioli, simply add them directly to boiling salted water and adjust the cooking time by a few minutes.
Reheating: For leftovers, reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or sauce until warmed through, preserving the delightful flavors!
Butternut Squash Ravioli Variations
Get creative with your butternut squash ravioli by exploring these delightful twists that will elevate your dish!
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Sweet Potato: Swap out butternut squash for sweet potato for a slightly different sweetness and flavor profile. The creamy texture remains just as comforting.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in the butter sauce for an aromatic lift. Each herb brings its own character to the dish!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sage brown butter sauce for a subtle heat that awakens the flavors. Your taste buds will love the surprise!
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Nutty Crunch: For added texture, toss in toasted pine nuts or walnuts with the finished ravioli for a delicious crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft pasta.
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Vegan Delight: Create a vegan-friendly version by using plant-based cheese and omitting the egg in the dough. You won’t miss the dairy in this lovely dish!
If you want to explore more delicious vegetarian options, consider making a side of garlic bread to accompany this main dish.
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Cheesy Variations: For cheese lovers, consider incorporating ricotta into the squash filling for an extra creamy consistency. It’s truly indulgent!
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Ghostly Ravioli: Embrace the spooky season by using black dough for the eyes of your ghost-shaped ravioli, making your dish both fun and festive!
Your butternut squash ravioli can be tailored to your liking, ensuring each version is a heartfelt creation. Enjoy the cooking adventure!
Tips for the Best Butternut Squash Ravioli
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Seal Tightly: Ensure the edges of your ravioli are sealed tightly to avoid any filling leaking out during cooking. Use a little water to help them stick if needed.
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Cook in Batches: To prevent overcrowding, cook your butternut squash ravioli in small batches. This helps them float and cook evenly, ensuring perfect texture.
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Chill the Filling: Allowing the filling to chill in the refrigerator enhances the flavors, making each bite of your ravioli even more delicious.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh sage and garlic offer the best flavor. While dried herbs work in a pinch, nothing beats the brightness of fresh ingredients in your sauce.
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Experiment with Shapes: Don’t be afraid to get creative! Try making ghost-shaped ravioli for a fun twist, especially around Halloween or festive gatherings.
Make Ahead Options
These Butternut Squash Ravioli are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply roast the squash and blend it with the other ingredients, then refrigerate in an airtight container. The dough can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days—just ensure it’s wrapped tightly to keep it from drying out. When it’s time to enjoy, roll out the refrigerated dough and shape the ravioli, then cook them right before serving. This way, you get to enjoy fresh, homemade pasta that’s just as delicious as if it were made in one go!
What to Serve with Butternut Squash Ravioli
Elevate your cozy dinner with delicious pairings that complement the rich flavors of homemade ravioli.
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Garlic Bread: The crunchy, buttery goodness of garlic bread offers a satisfying contrast to the creamy filling, perfect for scooping up sauce.
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Arugula Salad: A fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a peppery bite that brightens each forkful of ravioli, balancing out the richness.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Sweet and savory roasted Brussels sprouts add a crunchy texture and earthy flavor, enhancing your cozy meal.
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Crispy Sage Chips: Fry thin sage leaves for a delightful crunchy garnish that echoes the sage in your ravioli sauce while adding a satisfying crunch.
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Zinfandel Wine: A glass of Zinfandel wine complements the sweet butternut squash and buttery sauce with its fruity notes, perfect for a cozy evening.
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Pumpkin Cheesecake: For dessert, a slice of pumpkin cheesecake echoes the seasonal flavors in your meal, leaving a comforting taste lingering on your palate.
Let these suggestions create a comforting dining experience that celebrates the delightful essence of butternut squash ravioli!
Butternut Squash Ravioli Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my butternut squash is ripe?
When selecting butternut squash, look for one with a firm, smooth skin and a uniform tan color. Avoid squash with dark spots or blemishes. It should feel heavy for its size, and a little scratching of the skin should reveal vibrant orange flesh underneath. A ripe butternut squash should also be slightly dull in appearance—if it looks shiny, it may not be ripe yet!
What’s the best way to store cooked butternut squash ravioli?
Absolutely! Store your cooked butternut squash ravioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you can warm them in a skillet with a bit of water or sauce to keep them moist, or simply pop them in the microwave for a quick meal. Just remember, a little splash of water helps maintain their lovely texture!
Can I freeze butternut squash ravioli? How?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked butternut squash ravioli! Place them on a parchment-lined tray in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch. Freeze them until solid (about 2 hours), then transfer the ravioli to an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to cook, drop them into boiling salted water without thawing—just add an extra minute or two to the cooking time!
What if my ravioli dough is too sticky?
If your ravioli dough is sticking to your hands or the surface, don’t worry; this can happen! Simply sprinkle a little more flour onto the work surface and your hands, then knead the dough for a few moments until it becomes firmer and less sticky. Remember, a dusting of flour goes a long way in making your rolling and shaping a breeze!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! This recipe can be adapted for various dietary needs. For a vegan version, replace the grated Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast, and use flaxseed meal mixed with water instead of eggs in the dough. Additionally, if you’re cooking for young children or pets, ensure that ingredients like garlic and onion are omitted from their portions, as these can be harmful to pets. Always double-check for any allergies your guests may have!
Homemade Butternut Squash Ravioli for Cozy Fall Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and arrange the diced butternut squash, chopped onion, and garlic cloves on a baking sheet. Drizzle generously with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and freshly cracked pepper. Roast for 30 minutes until the squash is tender and caramelized, then let it cool before blending the mixture with brown sugar and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Chill the filling in the refrigerator for added flavor.
- In a food processor, combine all-purpose flour, eggs, and a dash of olive oil. Pulse until the mixture forms a cohesive ball of dough; this should take around 1-2 minutes. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- Dust a clean work surface with flour and roll out the chilled pasta dough to your desired thinness. Using an ice cube tray, fill each cavity with the chilled butternut squash filling. Place another layer of rolled-out dough over the tray, pressing down gently around each filling mound to remove air pockets. Cut individual ravioli with a pastry cutter or knife, ensuring the edges are well-sealed.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and gently add the prepared butternut squash ravioli. Cook them for 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface. Use a slotted spoon to remove the ravioli from the water, allowing them to drain well.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt unsalted butter until it begins to foam and turn golden brown, about 3-5 minutes. Add fresh sage leaves and cook for another minute until they become crisp and aromatic. Pour in a splash of lemon juice before removing from heat.
- Toss the cooked ravioli in the sage brown butter sauce until well-coated. Plate them up with a sprinkling of extra Parmesan cheese and a few more crispy sage leaves on top.
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