Butternut Squash Ravioli Recipe with Creamy Sauce and Fresh Herbs

Celeste Whitmore Avatar
By:
Celeste Whitmore
Published:

[grow_share_buttons]

Why You’ll Love This Butternut Squash Ravioli

This butternut squash ravioli recipe is built for simplicity. Roasting the squash concentrates sweetness with minimal hands-on time; the filling comes together in one bowl, and you can use store-bought wonton wrappers or fresh pasta sheets to cut total cook time. Whether you’re making homemade ravioli or using pre-made pasta, the process is straightforward and weeknight-friendly, making squash ravioli an approachable comfort-food pasta.

Butternut squash ravioli delivers fiber, beta-carotene, and vitamin A from the roasted squash, balanced by protein from ricotta or plant-based cheese. Substituting whole-grain pasta or gluten-free wrappers adds complex carbs and makes the dish lighter. This squash-stuffed pasta offers nutrient density and satiety, so the dish reads as both indulgent and nourishing.

The butternut ravioli filling adapts to many diets: swap dairy for cashew cream or tofu for a vegan squash ravioli, choose gluten-free wrappers for celiac-friendly versions, or lighten the filling for low-calorie parmesan-sprinkled plates. The squash ravioli concept fits seasonal menus and can be dressed in butter, tomato, or creamy sage sauces to suit varied preferences. Roasting brings caramelized depth to the squash, while warm spices like nutmeg and a sharp cheese create a complex, sweet-savory profile.

Paired with brown butter and sage or a bright brown-butter lemon drizzle, this butternut squash ravioli stands out with layered, memorable taste (approximately 6 dozen ravioli, serving 12 people, featuring a silky butternut squash filling encased in fresh pasta dough, served with a fragrant brown butter sage sauce).

Jump to:

Essential Ingredients for Butternut Squash Ravioli

Making your own butternut squash ravioli starts with gathering the right ingredients, and let me tell you, once you see how these come together, you’ll feel like a pro in the kitchen. Below is a comprehensive list of all the ingredients needed, pulled directly from the recipe details to ensure you have exactly what it takes to create this dish.

  • 1 1/2 cups semolina pasta flour (for pasta dough)
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (for pasta dough)
  • 4 whole eggs (for pasta dough)
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil (for pasta dough)
  • 4 tablespoons water (for pasta dough)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (for pasta dough)
  • 2 1/2 lbs butternut squash, peeled and roughly chopped (for filling)
  • 8 whole garlic cloves (for filling)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil (for filling)
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated (for filling)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried sage (for filling)
  • Salt and pepper to taste (for filling)
  • 4 tablespoons butter (1/2 stick) (for sauce and garnish)
  • 10 whole fresh sage leaves (for sauce and garnish)
  • 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (for garnish)
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

This structured list makes it easy to shop and measure out each item precisely. For special dietary options, you can adapt as needed, like using vegan alternatives for dairy-free versions.

How to Prepare the Perfect Butternut Squash Ravioli: Step-by-Step Guide

First Steps: Preparing the Dough and Filling

First, make the dough by combining 1 1/2 cups semolina pasta flour, 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 4 whole eggs, 4 tablespoons olive oil, 4 tablespoons water, and 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Knead by hand or mixer for 10 minutes until elastic, then wrap in plastic and rest for at least 20 minutes before rolling out on a floured surface.

Next, prepare the filling by tossing 2 1/2 lbs butternut squash (peeled and roughly chopped) and 8 whole garlic cloves with 1/4 cup olive oil. Roast at 400Β°F for 45 minutes until soft, then puree in a food processor, slowly adding olive oil until smooth, and mix in 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, 1/2 teaspoon dried sage, and salt and pepper to taste.

For the sauce, melt 4 tablespoons butter with 10 whole fresh sage leaves over low heat for 15 minutes to infuse flavors, then increase heat slightly and stir until the butter browns and sage crisps.

Assembling and Cooking

To assemble, place a pasta sheet over a ravioli mold, add a heaping teaspoon of filling to each well, wet the edges with water, cover with a second pasta sheet, and seal with a roller. Use flour generously to prevent sticking, then tap the mold to release the ravioli (this recipe creates approximately 6 dozen ravioli).

Cook the ravioli in boiling salted water until they float, which takes a few minutes, then drain. Finally, toss the cooked ravioli with the brown butter sage sauce and garnish with 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The total preparation time is about 1 hour prep, 45 minutes cook, and 1 hour 45 minutes total, making it perfect for busy home cooks.

Per serving, you’ll get about 348 calories, 39g carbohydrates, 9g protein, and 17g fat, packed with nutrients like 10,275 IU vitamin A and 20.5mg vitamin C. For tips, remember to knead the dough for a full 10 minutes and rest it covered to develop gluten a pasta roller is recommended for rolling.

Adjustments for Freezing

If you’re freezing, lay the ravioli in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, freeze solid, then transfer to a resealable bag, removing air to prevent freezer burn. Adjust sauce quantity if cooking all at once; the given amount suits a family of four.

Butternut Squash Ravioli Recipe With Creamy Sauce And Fresh Herbs 9

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Butternut Squash Ravioli

Protein and main component alternatives include dairy-free ricotta like blended silken tofu or cashew cream to make a vegan butternut squash ravioli. Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for vegan savory depth, and use flaxseed mixed with water as an egg binder.

For vegetable and seasoning modifications, swap butternut squash with roasted sweet potato or pumpkin, and try different sauces like tomato or lemon-garlic olive oil. These swaps allow you to craft butternut squash ravioli that fits vegan, gluten-free, or low-calorie preferences.

Mastering Butternut Squash Ravioli: Advanced Tips and Variations

Pro cooking techniques involve letting assembled ravioli rest on a floured rack for better sealing and roasting squash at 400Β°F for maximum caramelization. Add textural contrast with toasted nuts in the filling or as a garnish.

For flavor variations, try spiced-sweet notes with maple syrup or herbed and tangy lemon zest. Presentation tips include arranging ravioli on a sauce smear and garnishing with microgreens, while make-ahead options like freezing assembled ravioli make this dish versatile.

How to Store Butternut Squash Ravioli: Best Practices

For short-term storage, refrigerate cooked ravioli in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, separating layers with parchment. Freeze uncooked ravioli on a tray until firm, then bag for up to 3 months, and reheat gently in a skillet.

Meal prep by batch-roasting squash and assembling in advance to keep things easy for busy parents and working professionals. Here’s a quick table for storage guidelines:

Storage MethodDurationTips
Refrigeration (cooked)3-4 daysStore sauce separately and reheat gently
Freezing (uncooked)Up to 3 monthsCook from frozen, add extra time

For more on freezing desserts that pair well, check out our berry crisp recipe for similar techniques.

Butternut Squash Ravioli
Butternut Squash Ravioli Recipe With Creamy Sauce And Fresh Herbs 10

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Butternut Squash Ravioli

What is butternut squash ravioli and how is it typically made?

Butternut squash ravioli is a type of filled pasta where the dough pockets are stuffed with a savory butternut squash mixture. The filling usually includes roasted or steamed butternut squash, combined with ingredients like ricotta cheese, Parmesan, nutmeg, and sage. The pasta dough is rolled thin, cut into squares or circles, filled, and sealed before cooking. This dish is popular for its sweet and creamy filling balanced by the tender pasta.

How do you cook butternut squash ravioli without it falling apart?

To cook butternut squash ravioli without breaking, bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Add the ravioli in small batches to prevent overcrowding. Stir gently and cook for 3-5 minutes or until they float to the surface. Use a slotted spoon to carefully remove them. Avoid boiling vigorously, as strong movement can cause delicate ravioli to tear.

What sauces pair well with butternut squash ravioli?

Butternut squash ravioli pairs well with light, complementary sauces that won’t overpower the sweet filling. Classic options include browned butter with sage, a simple garlic and olive oil drizzle, or a light cream sauce. For a fresh contrast, try a sage and Parmesan sauce or a drizzle of balsamic reduction. Avoid heavy tomato sauces that may mask the squash flavor.

Can I make butternut squash ravioli ahead of time and freeze it?

Yes, homemade butternut squash ravioli can be frozen to save time. Arrange the ravioli in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid (about 2 hours). Then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, do not thaw; cook the frozen ravioli directly in boiling water, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time.

What nutritional benefits does butternut squash ravioli offer?

Butternut squash ravioli provides a good source of vitamins A and C, thanks to the butternut squash’s natural nutrients. It also offers fiber and antioxidants, supporting digestion and immune health. The pasta adds carbohydrates for energy, and if cheese is included in the filling, it contributes protein and calcium. This dish can be a balanced option when paired with a side of vegetables or salad.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Butternut Squash Ravioli 13.Png

Butternut Squash Ravioli

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

πŸŽƒ This Butternut Squash Ravioli Recipe offers a comforting and elegant dish featuring silky squash filling wrapped in fresh pasta.
🌿 The creamy brown butter sage sauce and toasted pine nuts add depth and fresh herbaceous notes, making it a perfect homemade meal for gatherings.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 6 dozen ravioli (serves 12)

Ingredients

– 1 1/2 cups semolina pasta flour for pasta dough

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour for pasta dough

– 4 whole eggs for pasta dough

– 4 tablespoons olive oil for pasta dough

– 4 tablespoons water for pasta dough

– 1 teaspoon kosher salt for pasta dough

– 2 1/2 lbs butternut squash, peeled and roughly chopped for filling

– 8 whole garlic cloves for filling

– 1/4 cup olive oil for filling

– 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated for filling

– 1/2 teaspoon dried sage for filling

– Salt and pepper to taste for filling

– 4 tablespoons butter (1/2 stick) for sauce and garnish

– 10 whole fresh sage leaves for sauce and garnish

– 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts for garnish

– Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions

1-First, make the dough by combining 1 1/2 cups semolina pasta flour, 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 4 whole eggs, 4 tablespoons olive oil, 4 tablespoons water, and 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Knead by hand or mixer for 10 minutes until elastic, then wrap in plastic and rest for at least 20 minutes before rolling out on a floured surface.

2-Next, prepare the filling by tossing 2 1/2 lbs butternut squash (peeled and roughly chopped) and 8 whole garlic cloves with 1/4 cup olive oil. Roast at 400Β°F for 45 minutes until soft, then puree in a food processor, slowly adding olive oil until smooth, and mix in 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, 1/2 teaspoon dried sage, and salt and pepper to taste.

3-For the sauce, melt 4 tablespoons butter with 10 whole fresh sage leaves over low heat for 15 minutes to infuse flavors, then increase heat slightly and stir until the butter browns and sage crisps.

4-To assemble, place a pasta sheet over a ravioli mold, add a heaping teaspoon of filling to each well, wet the edges with water, cover with a second pasta sheet, and seal with a roller. Use flour generously to prevent sticking, then tap the mold to release the ravioli (this recipe creates approximately 6 dozen ravioli).

5-Cook the ravioli in boiling salted water until they float, which takes a few minutes, then drain. Finally, toss the cooked ravioli with the brown butter sage sauce and garnish with 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The total preparation time is about 1 hour prep, 45 minutes cook, and 1 hour 45 minutes total, making it perfect for busy home cooks.

Last Step:

Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.

Notes

🍝 Cook ravioli in boiling salted water until they float for perfect texture.
❄️ Freeze ravioli in a single layer before storing in a bag to prevent sticking and freezer burn.
🌾 Use equal parts semolina and all-purpose flour and knead dough for 10 minutes for ideal pasta texture.

  • Author: Brandi Oshea
  • Prep Time: 1 hour
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Boiling and Roasting
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Contains Dairy and Gluten

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 348 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 319 mg
  • Fat: 17 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: not specified
  • Trans Fat: not specified
  • Carbohydrates: 39 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 9 g
  • Cholesterol: 67 mg

Next Recipe

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star