There’s something timeless and deeply comforting about a bowl of homemade cheese ravioli. From the tender pasta pockets to the rich, creamy filling, this dish is a love letter to classic Italian cooking. Whether you’re gathering around the dinner table with family or treating yourself to a cozy night in, cheese ravioli delivers the perfect bite of nostalgia and indulgence.
What makes this recipe extra special is its simplicity. With just a handful of quality ingredients—ricotta, Parmesan, mozzarella, and fresh herbs—you can create a filling that’s rich and flavorful without being overly complicated. Pair it with your favorite sauce, whether it’s a bright tomato marinara, a velvety Alfredo, or a nutty brown butter sage, and you’ve got a dish that feels both elevated and comforting.
Whether you’re rolling out fresh pasta or using store-bought sheets, this recipe walks you through every step so you can bring a little Italian warmth into your kitchen. It’s easier than you think—and so worth it.
Ready to cook? Let’s make magic in a ravioli shell.
Ingredients
For the Pasta Dough (or use store-bought if preferred):
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Cheese Filling:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional)
For Cooking & Serving:
- Salted boiling water
- Your favorite pasta sauce (marinara, brown butter sage, or Alfredo)
- Extra grated Parmesan and herbs for garnish
Instructions
1. Make the Pasta Dough (skip if using store-bought):
- On a clean surface, form a mound with the flour and make a well in the center.
- Crack in the eggs, add salt and olive oil.
- Mix with a fork, gradually incorporating flour until a dough forms.
- Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth. Wrap in plastic and let rest 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Cheese Filling:
- In a bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, mozzarella, egg yolk, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and herbs.
- Mix well until creamy. Refrigerate until ready to use.
3. Roll Out the Dough:
- Divide dough into 2 portions. Roll out into thin sheets using a pasta roller or rolling pin.
- Lay one sheet on a floured surface.
4. Fill and Shape the Ravioli:
- Spoon 1 tsp portions of filling, spaced evenly, on one sheet.
- Brush around filling with water and cover with the second dough sheet.
- Press around filling to seal. Cut into squares using a knife or ravioli cutter.
- Press edges with a fork or fingers to seal tight.
5. Cook the Ravioli:
- Bring salted water to a boil. Gently add ravioli and cook 3–4 minutes or until they float.
- Drain carefully.
6. Serve:
- Toss with warm sauce and top with extra Parmesan and herbs.
Tips:
- Make a batch and freeze uncooked ravioli for up to 1 month.
- Add spinach or sautéed mushrooms to the cheese filling for variation.
- Pairs well with a glass of chilled Chardonnay or sparkling water with lemon.
