Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve landed in the right place! This Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara is one of my absolute favorites. It combines creamy textures with savory flavors, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up that you’ll feel like a kitchen superstar without spending hours cooking!

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and richness. Each bite brings together the gooey goodness of cheese-filled ravioli and the delightful notes of garlic and cream, all while being quick enough for a weeknight dinner. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for those nights when you’re short on time but still want something delicious.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love pasta and cheese! This dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and turkey strips creates a sauce that’s irresistibly rich and satisfying.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe based on what you have at home or to suit different tastes.
• Make-Ahead Potential: You can prepare the sauce in advance and simply heat it up when you’re ready to serve.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara involves simple, wholesome ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store. Let’s gather everything we need for this delicious dish!

For the Pasta

• 1 (20-ounce) package cheese-filled ravioli (fresh or frozen)
• 1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)

For the Sauce

• 4 ounces turkey strips or bacon, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup whole milk (or more cream for extra richness)
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 2 large egg yolks, whisked
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ¼ cup extra Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Cracked black pepper, to taste

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: If you’re not a fan of turkey strips or bacon, try using chicken breast or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some spinach or peas for an extra boost of color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Want some heat? Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick!
• Substitute cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese like Asiago or pecorino instead of Parmesan for unique flavors.

How to Make Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara

Step 1: Cook the Ravioli

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your ravioli and cook according to package instructions until they are al dente. Cooking them just right helps maintain their structure when combined with the sauce later.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the diced turkey strips or bacon and sauté until crispy. This step adds depth to your sauce with its savory flavor. Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Be careful not to let it burn!

Step 3: Create Creamy Goodness

Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk into the skillet with the turkey and garlic mixture. Stir well and let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Mix in Cheese & Seasonings

Add in half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese along with black pepper and salt. Stir until everything is combined smoothly. The cheese will help thicken your sauce while adding that creamy texture we all love.

Step 5: Combine Ravioli with Sauce

Once your ravioli are cooked and drained, gently add them into the skillet with your creamy sauce. Carefully fold them into the mixture so they are well-coated without breaking apart.

Step 6: Finish It Off

Remove from heat and stir in the whisked egg yolks slowly; this will add richness without scrambling them. Finally, sprinkle over some extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving hot!

Now sit back and enjoy your Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara—you’ve earned it!

Pro Tips for Making Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara

Creating a delicious dish can be simple and fun with a few helpful tips!

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Using fresh or high-quality frozen ravioli makes a significant difference in flavor and texture. The better the ingredients, the more authentic your dish will taste.

• Don’t Overcook the Ravioli: Cook the ravioli just until they float to the surface of the boiling water. This ensures they remain tender and don’t become mushy, giving you that perfect bite.

• Whisk Egg Yolks Carefully: When adding the egg yolks to the sauce, be sure to temper them by adding a bit of the hot sauce first. This prevents scrambling and helps achieve a creamy consistency.

• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Since flavors can vary based on personal preference and ingredient types, always taste your sauce before serving. A pinch more salt or pepper can elevate your dish.

• Serve Immediately: Carbonara is best enjoyed fresh! The creamy sauce thickens as it cools, so serve it right away for the best experience.

How to Serve Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara

Presenting your Ravioli Carbonara beautifully can enhance its appeal and make any meal feel special. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley not only adds color but also brings a hint of freshness that brightens up the rich flavors.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A light dusting of cracked black pepper right before serving adds an extra touch of sophistication and a bit of spice.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce. It’s a classic pairing that complements pasta dishes beautifully.

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the ravioli carbonara.

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add color, flavor, and nutrients while providing a delightful crunch alongside your creamy pasta.

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli is an easy side that adds both nutrition and vibrant color to your plate. It balances out the richness of the carbonara beautifully.

With these pro tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress family or friends with your Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara! Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara is not only a delightful dish to savor fresh, but it also makes for fantastic meal prep. You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover ravioli carbonara in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the dish has cooled completely before sealing to maintain texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, allow the dish to cool thoroughly.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, leaving some space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring between sessions to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I make Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara without heavy cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute with half-and-half or use a plant-based cream alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option.

How do I store Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

What type of cheese works best in this recipe?

While Parmesan is traditional, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or a blend of Italian cheeses for added flavor!

Can I add vegetables to my Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara?

Definitely! Fresh spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes would be delicious additions that enhance both flavor and nutrition.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Yes! Simply replace the turkey strips with sautéed mushrooms or your favorite plant-based protein to create a satisfying vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to create this Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara! It’s perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests at gatherings. The creamy sauce combined with tender ravioli is simply irresistible. Enjoy making this dish and sharing it with loved ones—happy cooking!