Mushroom Ravioli with Spinach

Mushroom Ravioli with Spinach is a rich and earthy dish that combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the freshness of spinach, all encased in delicate pasta. The ravioli is filled with a savory mixture of sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and fresh herbs, then tossed in a creamy spinach sauce that adds depth and richness to every bite. The spinach provides a vibrant contrast to the earthy mushrooms, creating a balance that’s both comforting and satisfying.

I first made this dish on a cozy evening when I was craving something a little more special but didn’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen. The mushrooms were the star of the filling, offering a deep umami flavor, while the spinach added a beautiful color and fresh taste. The creamy sauce tied everything together, making each bite feel indulgent yet light. What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is—you can add some Parmesan for extra richness, a dash of nutmeg for warmth, or even toss in some toasted pine nuts for a bit of crunch. It’s the perfect dish to enjoy any night of the week!

Perfect for:

  • Weeknight dinners
  • Special occasions
  • Italian food lovers
  • Vegetarian meals
  • Family gatherings

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why this Mushroom Ravioli with Spinach will be your go-to meal:

  • Hearty and Flavorful: The earthy mushrooms and fresh spinach deliver a rich, satisfying taste.
  • Homemade Pasta: The ravioli is made from scratch, ensuring a soft and delicate texture that takes the dish to the next level.
  • Healthy Greens: The spinach adds a boost of nutrients and a bright contrast to the savory filling.
  • Rich and Creamy Sauce: The sauce brings everything together with a creamy, buttery base that complements the ravioli.
  • Vegetarian Delight: This dish is a great choice for those looking for a meatless meal without compromising on flavor.
  • Perfectly Balanced: The combination of mushrooms, spinach, and the rich sauce creates a well-balanced dish.
  • Comfort Food with Elegance: While hearty, this dish also has a refined, elegant appeal.
  • Can Be Made Ahead: Prepare the ravioli in advance and simply cook when ready to serve.
  • Easy to Customize: Add other vegetables or seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
  • Impressive Presentation: The ravioli looks stunning on the plate, making it perfect for dinner parties.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 1.5 hours
  • Preparation Time: 45 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 40 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 12g, Carbs: 50g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

For the Ravioli Dough:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Water as needed

The Mushroom and Spinach Filling:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
  • 1 cup spinach, wilted and chopped
  • 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh basil or parsley
  • Extra Parmesan cheese

Ingredient Highlights

  • Mushrooms: Provide a rich, earthy flavor and a meaty texture that pairs perfectly with the ravioli.
  • Spinach: Adds a fresh, vibrant taste and is packed with nutrients.
  • Ricotta Cheese: Adds creaminess to the filling, balancing the earthiness of the mushrooms.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Brings a salty, nutty flavor to the filling and sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Ravioli Dough:

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add eggs and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
  2. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  3. Rest the Dough: Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Mushroom and Spinach Filling:

  1. Cook the Mushrooms: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped mushrooms and cook until softened and all moisture has evaporated.
  2. Add Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
  3. Make the Filling: Transfer the mushroom and spinach mixture to a bowl. Add ricotta, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.

Assemble the Ravioli:

  1. Roll Out the Dough: Roll the dough into thin sheets using a rolling pin or pasta machine.
  2. Form the Ravioli: Place teaspoons of the filling on one sheet of dough, leaving space between each. Place another sheet of dough over the top and press around each mound of filling to seal. Cut into individual ravioli squares.
  3. Cook the Ravioli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ravioli in batches for 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Remove with a slotted spoon.

Prepare the Sauce:

  1. Make the Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Serve:

  1. Plate the Ravioli: Arrange the cooked ravioli on plates and drizzle with the creamy sauce.
  2. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

How to Serve

Here are 9 serving suggestions for Mushroom Ravioli with Spinach:

  • As a Main Course: Serve as the centerpiece of a meal with a side salad.
  • With Garlic Bread: Pair with warm garlic bread for a satisfying, hearty meal.
  • For Dinner Parties: A beautiful and delicious dish that will impress your guests.
  • With Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color.
  • With a Side of Vegetables: Serve with roasted or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
  • As a Vegetarian Feast: Perfect for vegetarians and those looking for a lighter, yet satisfying, dish.
  • For Special Occasions: Ideal for anniversaries, holidays, or a special family dinner.
  • As Leftovers: Great the next day for lunch, as the flavors continue to develop.
  • With a Sprinkle of Parmesan: Top with extra grated Parmesan for an added burst of flavor.

Additional Tips

  • Roll Dough Thinly: The ravioli dough should be thin enough to allow the filling to shine without being too heavy.
  • Seal the Ravioli Properly: Make sure the edges of the ravioli are sealed tightly to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
  • Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach will provide a better texture and flavor than frozen spinach.
  • Make Extra Ravioli: Prepare extra ravioli to freeze for future meals.
  • Adjust Filling Consistency: If the filling is too wet, add more Parmesan to absorb the moisture.

Recipe Variations

  • Mushroom and Ricotta Ravioli: Use only mushrooms and ricotta in the filling for a simpler version.
  • Creamy Tomato Sauce: Replace the creamy sauce with a simple tomato sauce for a different twist.
  • Vegan Ravioli: Replace ricotta with vegan alternatives like cashew cream or tofu.
  • Add Walnuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts into the filling for added texture and flavor.
  • Spicy Ravioli: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicy kick.
  • With Pesto Sauce: Serve with a homemade basil pesto for a fresh, vibrant topping.

Special Equipment

  • Pasta Machine: For evenly rolled dough and consistent thickness.
  • Fork or Ravioli Cutter: To seal and cut the ravioli neatly.
  • Slotted Spoon: To easily remove the ravioli from boiling water.
  • Saucepan: For making the creamy sauce.
  • Rolling Pin: If not using a pasta machine, a rolling pin works fine for rolling dough.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use store-bought ravioli for this recipe?
    Yes, you can substitute with store-bought ravioli, though homemade ravioli will be fresher and more flavorful.
  2. How long does homemade ravioli last?
    Fresh ravioli can be stored in the fridge for 1-2 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
  3. Can I use different mushrooms?
    Yes, feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as cremini or shiitake, for varied flavor profiles.
  4. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
    Yes, you can make the sauce ahead and reheat it gently when ready to serve.
  5. How do I prevent the ravioli from sticking together?
    After making the ravioli, dust them lightly with flour or semolina to prevent sticking.
  6. Can I freeze the ravioli?
    Yes, place uncooked ravioli on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, and then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
  7. How can I make the dough without eggs?
    Substitute the eggs with a mixture of water and flour, or use a store-bought egg-free pasta dough.
  8. Can I double the recipe?
    Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to make more servings.
  9. How do I cut the ravioli neatly?
    Use a ravioli cutter or a sharp knife to ensure clean, even cuts.
  10. Can I add meat to the filling?
    Yes, feel free to add ground meat, such as beef, for a non-vegetarian version.

Conclusion

Mushroom Ravioli with Spinach is a rich and savory dish that combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the freshness of spinach, all wrapped in delicate pasta. The tender ravioli are filled with a delicious mixture of sautéed mushrooms and creamy ricotta, creating a satisfying bite that’s perfectly complemented by the vibrant spinach. It’s a comforting and indulgent meal that’s as simple to prepare as it is impressive to serve.

This dish can be made from scratch or with store-bought ravioli, making it an easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal. The addition of spinach adds a pop of color and a burst of nutrients, while a simple garlic butter sauce ties everything together. You can customize this dish by adding herbs, Parmesan, or a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor. It’s a great way to enjoy the earthy richness of mushrooms in a light and refreshing way.

I can’t wait to see how your Mushroom Ravioli with Spinach turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!

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