Ravioli with Sage Butter Sauce is a quick and flavorful dish that combines the nutty richness of brown butter with crispy sage leaves and toasted pecans. The ravioli, usually filled with cheese or your favorite filling, is tossed in this heavenly sauce, making it a cozy and comforting meal that’s ready in just 25 minutes. The garlic, fresh thyme, and lemon zest add bright notes that perfectly balance the richness of the butter.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• For the Ravioli:

  • 2 (9-ounce) packages refrigerated ravioli

  • ½ cup unsalted butter (cubed)

  • ⅓ cup loosely packed fresh sage leaves

  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)

  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest

  • 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme leaves

  • ⅓ cup finely chopped pecans

  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

  • ½ cup shaved Parmesan

Directions

1. Cook the Ravioli:
   In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook ravioli according to package instructions. Drain well.

2. Make the Sage Butter Sauce:
   Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sage leaves and cook until crispy, and the butter starts to foam, about 2-3 minutes. Transfer the sage to a paper towel-lined plate and set aside.

3. Toast Pecans and Garlic:
   Add the minced garlic, lemon zest, thyme, and chopped pecans to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant and the butter turns golden brown, about 2 minutes.

4. Combine the Ravioli and Sauce:
   Stir the cooked ravioli into the sauce and heat through for about 1-2 minutes. Add the lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serve:
   Serve the ravioli immediately, garnished with the crispy sage leaves and shaved Parmesan.

Nutrients

• Calories: 580 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 45g

• Protein: 15g

• Fat: 36g

• Saturated Fat: 19g

• Cholesterol: 80mg

• Sodium: 820mg

• Potassium: 150mg

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 3g

• Vitamin A: 620 IU

• Vitamin C: 2mg

• Calcium: 150mg

• Iron: 1mg

Why Sage Butter Sauce Works Perfectly with Ravioli

Sage butter sauce is a classic combination that pairs beautifully with ravioli, especially when the sauce is made with browned butter. The nutty, slightly caramelized flavor of brown butter adds depth and richness to the ravioli, enhancing its flavor without overwhelming it. The fresh sage leaves, when cooked until crispy, contribute an earthy aroma and texture that complements the soft, delicate ravioli.

The toasted pecans add another layer of flavor and texture, providing a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy filling of the ravioli. The garlic and fresh thyme infuse the sauce with fragrant, savory notes, while the lemon zest and juice brighten the overall dish with a burst of citrusy freshness. The balance between richness, crunch, and brightness is what makes this dish so irresistible.

A Quick and Easy Recipe

Ravioli with Sage Butter Sauce is a quick and easy meal that doesn’t require much prep time. With just a few ingredients, including pre-made refrigerated ravioli, you can make a gourmet meal in less than 30 minutes. The first step is to cook the ravioli in a large pot of boiling salted water. Fresh ravioli cooks in just a few minutes, so it’s a fast and convenient base for the dish.

Once the ravioli is cooked and drained, you prepare the sage butter sauce. Melting the butter in a skillet over medium heat and adding fresh sage leaves turns the butter into a deliciously aromatic base. After the sage becomes crispy, you add garlic, lemon zest, thyme, and chopped pecans to the skillet, creating a fragrant and toasty sauce.

Tossing the ravioli in the sauce for a minute or two allows it to absorb all the flavors, while the lemon juice adds a nice touch of acidity that cuts through the richness of the butter. The crispy sage leaves are added as a garnish, along with freshly shaved Parmesan cheese, to complete the dish.

The Perfect Balance of Richness and Freshness

One of the highlights of Ravioli with Sage Butter Sauce is its perfect balance between richness and freshness. The brown butter provides a deep, nutty flavor that coats the ravioli and adds a comforting, indulgent quality to the dish. At the same time, the lemon zest and juice, along with the fresh thyme, brighten the sauce and help balance the richness of the butter.

The crispy sage leaves not only add an aromatic element but also provide a slightly herbal and crispy texture that contrasts nicely with the soft ravioli. The pecans add a crunchy bite, elevating the texture of the dish while contributing a toasty flavor that complements the butter. The shave of Parmesan on top adds a salty, umami finish, completing this simple yet elegant dish.

Nutritional Benefits of Ravioli with Sage Butter Sauce

While Ravioli with Sage Butter Sauce is undoubtedly rich and indulgent, it also offers some nutritional benefits. Each serving provides 15 grams of protein, making it a filling meal that will keep you satisfied. The ravioli, being a carbohydrate-based dish, provides 45 grams of carbs per serving, making it an excellent source of energy.

The butter used in the sauce provides 36 grams of fat, including 19 grams of saturated fat, so it’s important to enjoy this dish in moderation. However, the butter also adds richness and flavor, and the pecans contribute healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.

Additionally, the dish provides a good amount of vitamin A (620 IU), which is important for eye health, and 3 grams of fiber, which aids in digestion. The lemon juice in the sauce adds a small amount of vitamin C, which supports immune function, while the fresh thyme provides some antioxidants.

Serving Suggestions for Ravioli with Sage Butter Sauce

Ravioli with Sage Butter Sauce can be served on its own as a delicious and satisfying meal, but it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a light and refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish, consider serving it with a simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette. The acidity of the vinaigrette will help cut through the buttery richness of the ravioli.

You could also serve this dish with roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or butternut squash, for a warm and hearty side that complements the flavors of the sage butter sauce. A crusty piece of bread is another great addition, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

For a more indulgent meal, serve the ravioli alongside some grilled chicken or a protein of your choice. The savory, nutty flavors of the sauce will pair beautifully with grilled meats or seafood.

Conclusion

Ravioli with Sage Butter Sauce is a simple yet elegant dish that brings together the richness of brown butter, the earthy aroma of crispy sage, and the crunch of toasted pecans. With just a few ingredients, you can create a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. The combination of savory, rich flavors with bright, fresh notes from the lemon and thyme makes this dish a true crowd-pleaser.

Whether you enjoy it on its own or pair it with a side of vegetables or protein, Ravioli with Sage Butter Sauce is a dish that will leave you feeling satisfied and content. It’s a beautiful balance of richness, brightness, and texture that will make you fall in love with every bite.