As I was cozying up with a warm cup of cider, I couldn't help but think about the delightful flavors of fall that make every meal feel like a hug. That's when I decided to elevate my dinner game with Sage Butter Pumpkin Cheese Ravioli with Crispy Sage and Manchego. This recipe is a celebration of seasonal ingredients, bringing both comforting and elegant vibes to your table. The sweet creaminess of freshly-filled pumpkin ravioli draped in rich brown butter and paired with crispy sage leaves offers a culinary experience that feels indulgent yet accessible. Plus, the dish is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. As soon as you take a bite, you'll find yourself wondering how something so gourmet can come together so effortlessly. Ready to make your fall dinners unforgettable?
Why is this dish a must-try?
Comforting: This dish combines the cozy flavors of fall with a touch of elegance, making every bite feel like a warm embrace.
Quick & Easy: It comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner without sacrificing gourmet flair.
Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients; try butternut squash ravioli or different cheeses to suit your taste and dietary needs.
Elegant Presentation: The rich, golden-brown sauce topped with crispy sage and shaved manchego creates an eye-catching plate that will impress any guest, making it ideal for gatherings.
Flavor Explosion: The balance of sweet pumpkin, nutty walnuts, and aromatic sage results in a delightful taste experience that celebrates the season's best.
Don't forget to check out our tips on how to elevate your weekend dinner with quick sides, like a simple arugula salad or roasted Brussels sprouts, for the perfect meal accompaniment!
Sage Butter Pumpkin Cheese Ravioli Ingredients
• Discover the key flavors for this comforting ravioli dish!
For the Ravioli
- Pumpkin Cheese Ravioli – Fresh varieties enhance flavor and provide a creamy texture.
- Unsalted Butter – The foundation of the sage sauce, giving it richness; consider using vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
For the Sauce
- Fresh Sage Leaves – Essential for aromatic flavor; if unavailable, dried sage can be adjusted in timing.
- Garlic Cloves – Infuses the sauce with savory depth; fresh garlic offers the best flavor.
- Apple Cider or White Wine – Introduces acidity to balance the sweetness; vegetable broth makes a great non-alcoholic substitute.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Provides a tang that enhances the overall dish.
- Nutmeg – A pinch elevates the fall flavor profile; cinnamon can be used as an alternative.
For the Topping
- Toasted Walnuts – Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor; feel free to substitute with pecans or almonds.
- Manchego Cheese – A tangy finish that complements the dish well; Parmesan cheese can also work as a flavorful substitute.
- Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preference.
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s create this heartwarming dish that embodies the spirit of fall!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sage Butter Pumpkin Cheese Ravioli with Crispy Sage and Manchego
Step 1: Boil the Ravioli
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Carefully add the pumpkin cheese ravioli and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the top and are tender but al dente. Once cooked, gently drain the ravioli in a colander and set aside, tossing them lightly with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Sage Butter
In a large skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add smashed garlic cloves, chopped toasted walnuts, and fresh sage leaves to the pan. Keep cooking for about 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently until the butter turns a golden brown and the sage becomes crispy. The rich aroma will fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to the table.
Step 3: Remove the Sage
Carefully use a slotted spoon to remove the crispy sage leaves from the skillet, placing them on a paper towel to drain excess butter. Leave the browned butter, garlic, and walnuts in the skillet to form the flavorful base of your sage butter sauce for the pumpkin cheese ravioli.
Step 4: Add the Acidity
Lower the heat to medium-low, then pour in the apple cider (or white wine) along with apple cider vinegar into the skillet with browned butter. Stir in a pinch of nutmeg, and season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 1 minute, letting the flavors meld beautifully while you prepare for the next step.
Step 5: Toss the Ravioli
Gently add the cooked pumpkin cheese ravioli to the skillet, carefully tossing them in the sage butter sauce to ensure they are well-coated. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, letting the ravioli soak in the savory flavors while they're heated through, creating a delicious marriage of tastes.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the ravioli onto serving plates and top generously with the crispy sage leaves and shaved manchego cheese. The combination of the golden-brown sage butter, crispy sage, and nutty cheese will create an elegant presentation, making your Sage Butter Pumpkin Cheese Ravioli a dish worth savoring!
What to Serve with Sage Butter Pumpkin Cheese Ravioli with Crispy Sage and Manchego
Elevate your cozy fall dinner by pairing this ravioli with sides that enhance its rich flavors and comforting textures.
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Arugula Salad: Tossed in a lemon vinaigrette, this fresh salad introduces a bright contrast to the rich ravioli. It cleanses the palate beautifully between each bite.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts, caramelized to perfection, adds depth that complements the sweet pumpkin filling wonderfully.
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Garlic Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with garlic provide a satisfying crunch and vibrant color, enhancing both elegance and nutrition on your plate.
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Toasted Walnut Bread: A slice of this nutty, hearty bread serves as the perfect vehicle for soaking up the sage butter sauce, ensuring you don’t waste a drop of that heavenly flavor.
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Moscato Wine: This sweet, effervescent wine highlights the sweetness of the pumpkin ravioli while balancing its savory components—a delightful match.
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Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake: For dessert, this creamy cheesecake carries forward the pumpkin theme, wrapping up your meal with an indulgent, seasonal touch that feels like a festive celebration.
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create a well-rounded, satisfying meal that honors the essence of fall!
Expert Tips for Sage Butter Pumpkin Cheese Ravioli
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Don’t Overcook Ravioli: Keep an eye on the ravioli while boiling to prevent them from becoming mushy. They should be tender yet firm.
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Crispy Sage: Fry the sage leaves until crispy in the brown butter to give the dish a delightful texture and aromatic lift.
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Sauce Consistency: If your sauce seems too thick, a splash of reserved pasta water can help achieve a silky consistency without losing flavor.
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Customize Ingredients: Feel free to use butternut squash or sweet potato ravioli instead of pumpkin for a unique twist on the classic Sage Butter Pumpkin Cheese Ravioli.
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Storage Tips: If making ahead, freeze uncooked ravioli on a baking sheet to avoid sticking, then store in an airtight container for later use.
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Add Greens: Toss in some fresh spinach or kale into the sauce for added color and a nutritional boost, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
Sage Butter Pumpkin Cheese Ravioli Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to make this recipe your own with some delightful twists and substitutions!
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Dairy-Free: Swap unsalted butter for vegan butter and use nutritional yeast instead of manchego for a creamy, cheese-like flavor.
Creating a dairy-free version ensures everyone can enjoy this dish without compromising on taste! -
Pumpkin Alternatives: Substitute pumpkin ravioli with butternut squash or sweet potato ravioli for a unique seasonal flavor.
Each option offers a different sweetness that adds a fun twist to your meal. -
Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like pecorino or a plant-based cheese for either a sharper or creamier finish.
Adjusting the cheese can beautifully change the dish’s profile, keeping it interesting every time you make it. -
Nut Variations: Try pecans or hazelnuts instead of walnuts to enhance the dish’s nutty flavors in your sage butter sauce.
This variation enhances the texture and nutty aroma, providing an exciting change with every bite! -
Greens Boost: Stir in some fresh spinach or kale with the ravioli for extra nutrition and a vibrant pop of color.
Adding greens not only enhances visual appeal but also complements the rich flavors of the sauce beautifully. -
Heat Factor: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sage butter for a subtle kick, tailored to your spice preferences.
A hint of heat brings an exhilarating dimension to the sweet and savory balance of the dish. -
Herb Infusions: Experiment with fresh thyme or rosemary alongside sage for heightened aromatic layers in the sauce.
Adding different herbs invites fresh, seasonal flavors, capturing the essence of your favorite Italian trattoria. -
Cider Boost: Instead of apple cider, opt for hard cider for a more complex flavor profile in your sauce.
This delicious swap introduces an unexpected yet delightful depth that meshes well with the dish's overall warmth.
Don't forget to check out how you can pair your ravioli with sides like a simple arugula salad or roasted Brussels sprouts to complete your meal!
Make Ahead Options
These Sage Butter Pumpkin Cheese Ravioli with Crispy Sage and Manchego are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the pumpkin cheese ravioli a day in advance—simply make the ravioli and refrigerate them in an airtight container. For the sage butter sauce, you can pre-cook the brown butter and crisp the sage, then store them separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. To finish the dish, gently reheat the sauce in a skillet over low heat, toss in the cooked ravioli until warmed through, and garnish with the crispy sage and shaved manchego just before serving. This way, you'll have a comforting meal ready with minimal fuss!
How to Store and Freeze Sage Butter Pumpkin Cheese Ravioli
Fridge: Store cooked ravioli in an airtight container with a drizzle of olive oil for up to 3 days. This will help keep them from sticking together while maintaining freshness.
Freezer: If you're making extra, freeze uncooked pumpkin cheese ravioli on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat cooked ravioli, gently warm them in a skillet with a little butter or olive oil over low heat until heated through, being careful not to overcook.
Make-Ahead Tip: If you plan to enjoy the Sage Butter Pumpkin Cheese Ravioli later, prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately in the fridge for quick assembly during dinner time.
Sage Butter Pumpkin Cheese Ravioli with Crispy Sage and Manchego Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe pumpkin cheese ravioli?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin cheese ravioli, look for fresh varieties with no discoloration or dark spots. The pasta should feel firm, and the filling should not ooze out. If you're in a market, I often suggest checking local farmers' markets for the freshest options!
What’s the best way to store leftover ravioli?
Very simple! Store cooked ravioli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Drizzling with a bit of olive oil will prevent them from sticking together while keeping them fresh.
Can you freeze uncooked pumpkin cheese ravioli?
Absolutely! To freeze, place uncooked ravioli in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, cook straight from frozen—they'll take a little longer to boil, around 5-7 minutes.
What should I do if my dish turns out too salty?
If your sauce is too salty, don’t worry! Try adding a bit of cream or unsweetened yogurt to balance out the flavors. Another trick is to toss in a slice of raw potato and simmer it in the sauce for a few minutes; it can absorb some of the excess saltiness!
Is this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Great question! The Sage Butter Pumpkin Cheese Ravioli is vegetarian and can be adapted for vegans by substituting the butter with vegan butter and omitting the cheese or using plant-based cheese. Always check labels for allergens like nuts or gluten in the pasta if you’re serving those with specific allergies.
How can I elevate the presentation of my ravioli dish?
To make your dish even more inviting, consider adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil. A drizzle of the sage butter sauce around the plate adds a touch of elegance. Also, shredding some additional manchego cheese on top just before serving creates a gourmet appearance that will impress your guests!
Indulgent Sage Butter Pumpkin Cheese Ravioli with Crispy Sage
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Carefully add the pumpkin cheese ravioli and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the top and are tender but al dente. Once cooked, gently drain the ravioli in a colander and set aside, tossing them lightly with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add smashed garlic cloves, chopped toasted walnuts, and fresh sage leaves to the pan. Keep cooking for about 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently until the butter turns a golden brown and the sage becomes crispy.
- Carefully use a slotted spoon to remove the crispy sage leaves from the skillet, placing them on a paper towel to drain excess butter.
- Lower the heat to medium-low, then pour in the apple cider (or white wine) along with apple cider vinegar into the skillet. Stir in a pinch of nutmeg, and season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 1 minute.
- Gently add the cooked pumpkin cheese ravioli to the skillet, carefully tossing them in the sage butter sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, letting the ravioli soak in the savory flavors while they're heated through.
- Transfer the ravioli onto serving plates and top generously with the crispy sage leaves and shaved manchego cheese.
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