Brown Butter Ravioli with Butternut Squash Recipe

If you are looking to cozy up with a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Brown Butter Ravioli with Butternut Squash Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish balances the delicate sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the rich, nutty flavor of brown butter, all wrapped in tender, cheesy ravioli that melts in your mouth. It’s an elegant yet approachable meal that shines on special occasions but is simple enough to enjoy any night you want to treat yourself to something truly special and comforting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to bringing this dish to life. Each component is simple and thoughtfully selected to give you bold flavors and comforting textures that blend beautifully together.

• 3 cups cubed butternut squash: Roasting these brings out natural sweetness, which perfectly complements the savory elements.
• 1/2 tablespoon olive oil: Helps roast the squash to tender perfection without drying it out.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all flavors without overpowering.
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces: The star of the sauce, creating that luscious brown butter base.
• 6 large garlic cloves, chopped: Adds a fragrant depth when gently cooked in browned butter.
• 16 fresh sage leaves: Their earthy aroma pairs beautifully with the butter and squash.
• 20 ounces refrigerated or frozen cheese ravioli: The comforting vessel that holds all those rich flavors together.
• 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese: Supplies a salty tang and enhances creaminess; Parmesan works as a great substitute.
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional): A tiny hint adds warmth that lifts the dish’s fall vibe.
• Optional garnish: chopped toasted pecans and extra cheese: Adds delightful crunch and an extra layer of flavor if desired.

How to Make Brown Butter Ravioli with Butternut Squash Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F, then toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the pieces evenly on a baking sheet, allowing them room to roast evenly. Pop them into the oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes until they are soft and tender but still hold their shape. This roasting step is vital as it caramelizes the natural sugars in the squash, making the flavor deeply rich and slightly sweet.

Step 2: Create the Brown Butter Sauce

While the squash finishes roasting, start melting the butter over medium-low heat in a large skillet. Stir constantly, watching carefully for the butter to foam and develop a nutty aroma and golden color. This process should take about 3 to 5 minutes and is where so much of the magic happens—the butter transforms from simple fat to a flavor powerhouse. Once browned, turn off the heat and immediately stir in the chopped garlic and fresh sage leaves. The residual heat gently cooks these aromatics, infusing the butter with vibrant, fragrant notes.

Step 3: Cook the Ravioli

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add a generous amount of salt—this is your chance to season the pasta itself. Cook the cheese ravioli according to the package instructions, usually just a few minutes until they float to the surface. Drain the ravioli carefully and add them straight into the skillet with the brown butter sauce. Toss gently to coat, being careful not to break the delicate pasta.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the roasted butternut squash to the skillet and fold it in with the ravioli and brown butter sauce as delicately as possible to maintain the squash’s beautiful shape. Sprinkle the grated Pecorino Romano cheese over the top, and if you like, add a pinch of nutmeg for that whisper of warming spice. This final mixing step unites every lovely component into one harmonious dish.

How to Serve Brown Butter Ravioli with Butternut Squash Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans scattered on top adds an excellent crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy ravioli and tender squash. Don’t forget to offer extra grated cheese on the side, so everyone can add as much savory richness as they desire. These simple touches elevate the whole experience tremendously.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty and flavorful on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon and olive oil adds freshness and balance. Roasted Brussels sprouts or a simple sauté of garlic spinach also complement the brown butter and butternut squash flavors perfectly, rounding out the meal with a refreshing touch of green.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, consider plating the ravioli on warmed white plates for a clean presentation that lets the golden colors pop. Garnish each plate with a fresh sage leaf for an elegant look. Alternatively, arrange the ravioli in a shallow bowl and drizzle extra brown butter sauce over the top for guests who love every bite draped in rich flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (and really, most of us hope that), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even tastier second meal.

Freezing

To freeze, lay the cooked ravioli and squash flat in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. This helps prevent sticking. Frozen Brown Butter Ravioli with Butternut Squash Recipe portions can last up to 2 months and are great for quick meals later.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it begins to dry out. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep the ravioli tender and the sauce luscious.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought ravioli for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought cheese ravioli works perfectly and saves you time while still producing an incredibly delicious Brown Butter Ravioli with Butternut Squash Recipe.

Is there a way to make this dish vegan?

You can substitute vegan butter and use dairy-free cheese ravioli to create a plant-based version. Roasting the squash and making a sage-infused sauce with olive oil can deliver great flavor too.

What other cheeses can I use instead of Pecorino Romano?

Parmesan is a fantastic substitute and widely available. For a milder flavor, Grana Padano also works beautifully in this recipe.

Can I prepare the butternut squash ahead of time?

Yes! Roasting the squash a day ahead is a real time-saver, just keep it refrigerated and bring to room temperature before combining with the ravioli and sauce.

What if I don’t have fresh sage?

Dried sage can be used in a pinch, but reduce the amount by half to avoid overpowering. Fresh sage leaves bring a much brighter flavor that makes this dish stand out.

Final Thoughts

The Brown Butter Ravioli with Butternut Squash Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a celebration of fall’s finest flavors. It’s approachable, stunning, and utterly delicious—perfect for impressing guests or simply indulging yourself on a cozy night in. Give it a try; I promise it will become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection!

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