Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you’ve come to the right place with this Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara! This creamy, dreamy pasta is one of those recipes that turns an ordinary day into something special. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight dinner or impressing family at a weekend gathering, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and rich flavor. The cheese-filled ravioli pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce and savory turkey, making every bite indulgent yet comforting. Plus, it’s quick to prepare—perfect for those evenings when time is tight but you still want to enjoy something delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, this dish fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy sauce and cheesy ravioli—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep some ingredients in advance, making dinner even easier when the time comes.
• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic creates a decadent taste that feels indulgent without being complicated.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! These are simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your kitchen. They come together to create that rich flavor we all crave.

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

To Finish

• 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 tweak it according to your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
• Add some veggies: Spinach or peas can be tossed in for an extra pop of color and nutrition.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino Romano for new flavors.
• Make it spicy: If you like a kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes while cooking the turkey.

How to Make Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara

Step 1: Cook the Ravioli

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ravioli and cook according to package instructions until they float. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes for fresh ravioli. Cooking them perfectly ensures they’re tender and ready to soak up that delicious sauce!

Step 2: Sauté the Turkey

While your ravioli cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced turkey strips (or bacon) and cook until golden brown. This step adds depth of flavor as the meat caramelizes slightly—a wonderful base for your carbonara!

Step 3: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic with the turkey and cook for another minute until fragrant. Garlic brings a lovely aroma and enhances the entire dish’s taste. Just be careful not to burn it; we want it sweet and aromatic!

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and milk into the skillet with turkey and garlic. Stir well before adding Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and salt. Let this mixture simmer gently so it thickens slightly—this will be your luscious sauce coating those raviolis.

Step 5: Incorporate Egg Yolks

In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks until smooth. Slowly add about half of your hot sauce mixture into the yolks while stirring constantly—this tempers them so they don’t scramble when added back into the pan. Then pour it back into your skillet for an ultra-creamy texture!

Step 6: Combine Everything

Once your ravioli are cooked and drained, gently fold them into your creamy sauce mixture. Add butter for extra richness and toss everything together until well coated. Serve immediately topped with extra Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and cracked black pepper for that finishing touch.

And there you have it! A delicious Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara that’s ready to enjoy with family or friends. Dig in!

Pro Tips for Making Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara

Creating a restaurant-quality dish at home can be a piece of cake with these handy tips!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality cheese will elevate the flavor of your carbonara, making each bite delicious and aromatic.

• Don’t overcook the ravioli: Follow the package instructions and taste-test your ravioli just before they’re done. Overcooked pasta can become mushy, affecting the overall texture of your dish.

• Whisk eggs thoroughly: When whisking the egg yolks, make sure they are well blended. This ensures a smooth and creamy sauce that coats the ravioli perfectly without scrambling.

• Reserve pasta water: Before draining your ravioli, save a cup of pasta water. Adding a splash to the sauce can help achieve your desired consistency and improve flavor.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Taste your sauce before serving and adjust the salt and pepper to suit your preference.

How to Serve Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara

Making an impressive presentation is key to enjoying this delightful dish. Here are some suggestions for serving it up beautifully!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors of the carbonara.
• Cracked black pepper: A finishing touch of cracked black pepper not only enhances flavor but also adds visual interest to your plate.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce, making it an irresistible addition to your meal.

• Caesar salad (without anchovies): Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing, croutons, and Parmesan provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the ravioli.

• Roasted vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus brings vibrant colors and flavors that complement the dish beautifully.

• Steamed broccoli: Simple yet effective, steamed broccoli offers a healthy side that adds crunch and balances out the richness of your carbonara.

Enjoy this Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara as a comforting dinner that feels fancy enough for special occasions while remaining easy enough for weeknight meals!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara is perfect for meal prep, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or when you want to enjoy a delicious dish without all the fuss. You can easily store leftovers or even freeze portions for later!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the ravioli carbonara to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• To keep the sauce from thickening too much, consider adding a splash of milk before sealing.

Freezing

• Portion the ravioli carbonara into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and recipe name, then freeze for up to 2 months.
• For best results, freeze without toppings like parsley or extra cheese.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen ravioli carbonara in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Gently warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or cream if needed.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara:

Can I use frozen ravioli for this Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara?

Yes! Frozen cheese-filled ravioli works perfectly in this recipe. Just follow the package instructions for cooking time.

How do I make Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian-friendly, simply omit the turkey strips or bacon and replace them with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or spinach.

Can I substitute heavy cream in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use half-and-half or whole milk if you’re looking for a lighter option, but keep in mind that it may alter the richness of the sauce slightly.

How long does Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this dish will last for about 3 days in the refrigerator.

What can I serve with Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread to complete your Italian-inspired meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara as much as I do! It’s not only easy to prepare but also brings a cozy taste of Italy right to your kitchen. Enjoy every creamy bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations with me. Happy cooking!