🧀🍄 Cheesy Ravioli with Spinach, Mushrooms & Sun-Dried Tomatoes
A creamy, cheesy pasta dish with rich umami from mushrooms, bright flavor from sun-dried tomatoes, and a pop of freshness from spinach — perfect for weeknight indulgence or casual entertaining.
📜 Description:
This comforting and elegant pasta dish brings together tender cheese-filled ravioli with sautéed mushrooms, baby spinach, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes in a rich olive oil and garlic sauce. It’s quick to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and comes together in just about 25 minutes — no heavy cream needed, just simple, wholesome ingredients and loads of Mediterranean flair.
🧺 Ingredients:
- 1 (20 oz) package cheese ravioli (fresh or frozen)
- Salt, for pasta water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp reserved oil from sun-dried tomatoes jar
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (white button or cremini)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, julienned
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
🍳 Instructions:
🔹 1. Cook the Ravioli:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add ravioli and cook according to package directions (usually 3–5 mins for fresh; 7–9 mins for frozen).
- Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
🔹 2. Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil and reserved tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté until fragrant (about 1 min).
- Add mushrooms. Cook 4–5 mins until tender and browned.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. Cook 2–3 mins until spinach wilts.
🔹 3. Combine and Finish:
- Add drained ravioli to the skillet.
- Gently toss to coat with the vegetables and oil. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Stir in grated Parmesan. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
🔹 4. Serve:
Plate warm and garnish with fresh basil or parsley and extra Parmesan.
🍴 Servings:
Serves 4 as a main course
💡 Notes & Tips:
- Add creaminess: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta for a richer sauce.
- Want protein? Add grilled chicken, Italian sausage, or cannellini beans.
- Cheese swap: Goat cheese or mozzarella pearls can be added for variation.
- Frozen ravioli tip: No need to thaw before boiling — just cook slightly longer.
- Extra tang: A squeeze of lemon juice adds brightness at the end.
🧠 Health Benefits:
- Spinach: Rich in iron, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants.
- Mushrooms: Support immunity and provide B-vitamins and selenium.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Concentrated in lycopene and add deep, tangy flavor.
- Olive oil: Offers heart-healthy fats with anti-inflammatory benefits.
🧾 Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approx.):
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 17g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
(Values will vary slightly based on ravioli type and cheese content.)
❓ Q&A Section
Q: Can I use a different type of ravioli?
A: Yes! Spinach and ricotta, mushroom, or even lobster ravioli work beautifully.
Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Absolutely. Use vegan ravioli and dairy-free cheese alternatives, and skip the Parmesan.
Q: Is this dish freezer-friendly?
A: It’s best fresh, but you can freeze leftovers. Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth.
Q: What wine pairs well with this?
A: Try a light white like Pinot Grigio or a fruity red like Chianti.
Q: What can I serve with it?
A: Garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables make great sides.