If you have been craving a dish that perfectly balances richness with fresh, zesty flavors, then this Creamy Lemon Herb Butter Ravioli Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s comfort food elevated, featuring tender cheese ravioli bathed in a luscious, velvety sauce made from butter, cream, and a refreshing burst of lemon and herbs. Every bite melts in your mouth, with bright notes from fresh lemon zest and a fragrant herbal touch that make this recipe a remarkable crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Creamy Lemon Herb Butter Ravioli Recipe shines because of its simplicity and the quality of each ingredient. Every element plays an essential role, from the rich butter that forms the base of the sauce to the fresh herbs that bring vibrant aroma and flavor. Together, they create a dish that feels both luxurious and inviting.
- Unsalted butter: The foundation of the sauce, offering a creamy, silky texture and rich flavor without extra saltiness.
- Small shallot: Adds a subtle sweetness and mild onion flavor that deepens the sauce’s complexity.
- Garlic cloves: Minced finely to provide warm, aromatic undertones that complement the herbs beautifully.
- Fresh tarragon: Thanks to its slightly licorice-like flavor, it adds an unexpected and delightful herbaceous punch.
- Fresh thyme: Offers earthy, minty notes that balance the brightness of the lemon.
- Chicken broth: Enhances the sauce’s depth while keeping it delicate and savory.
- Heavy whipping cream: The key to that irresistibly creamy sauce that clings to every ravioli perfectly.
- White wine: Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc brings acidity and subtle fruitiness, amplifying the sauce’s fresh taste.
- Fresh lemon juice: Brings a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness beautifully.
- Lemon zest: Intensifies the citrusy aroma for that unmistakable lemon herb character.
- Cheese ravioli: Store-bought and convenient, stuffed with a luscious cheese filling that pairs wonderfully with the sauce.
- Parmigiano Reggiano: Freshly grated for a salty, nutty finish and to thicken the sauce slightly.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: To season perfectly and round out the flavor profile.
How to Make Creamy Lemon Herb Butter Ravioli Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the shallots and butter
In a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, melt the unsalted butter until it’s sizzling gently. Add the finely chopped shallot and cook until translucent and golden brown, about 1 to 2 minutes. This step infuses the butter with sweet, caramelized onion flavors that serve as a delicious base for the sauce.
Step 2: Add garlic and fresh herbs
Next, stir in the minced garlic carefully, cooking for only about a minute to prevent burning. Then sprinkle in the fresh tarragon and thyme leaves. Keep stirring until you can smell the herbs releasing their wonderful fragrance, about one more minute, before reducing the heat to medium to prepare for the liquids.
Step 3: Combine liquids and ravioli
It’s time to pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, white wine, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir everything well to blend those flavors together. Add the cheese ravioli gently to the skillet, coating each piece with the luxurious sauce. Cover and simmer on medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes allowing the ravioli to cook through and the sauce to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Finish with Parmigiano Reggiano
Remove the cover and gently stir. You’ll notice the sauce is still a bit thin at this point. Sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano and combine it with the sauce—this acts to thicken the sauce and adds a savory, slightly nutty depth. Take the skillet off the heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes to thicken further.
Step 5: Final seasoning and serve
Season your dish with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you like, sprinkle a bit more Parmigiano Reggiano on top just before serving for an extra touch of indulgence. This final step brings all the flavors together for a rich, creamy, yet bright and herbaceous ravioli experience.
How to Serve Creamy Lemon Herb Butter Ravioli Recipe
Garnishes
To showcase this Creamy Lemon Herb Butter Ravioli Recipe beautifully, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano and a few extra lemon zest curls add a lovely visual and flavor boost. Fresh herb leaves like thyme or tarragon scattered on top enhance the aroma, inviting everyone to dive right in.
Side Dishes
This dish welcomes light, fresh sides to balance its richness. A crisp mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or simple steamed asparagus with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon pairs perfectly. Garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser, soaking up every bit of that delightful sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the ravioli on warm plates with a little extra sauce spooned artistically around. Garnish with edible flowers or microgreens for a pop of color. You could also serve it in individual shallow bowls, letting guests appreciate each silky piece covered in the vibrant sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from your Creamy Lemon Herb Butter Ravioli Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The sauce may thicken more as it cools, but don’t worry; reheating will bring it back to life nicely.
Freezing
While ravioli is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze portions of the cooked dish in freezer-safe containers for up to a month. Be sure to slightly undercook the ravioli before freezing for best texture upon reheating, and thaw overnight in the fridge before warming gently.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the ravioli gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce feels too thick. Avoid the microwave to preserve the sauce’s silky texture and the ravioli’s tender quality.
FAQs
Can I make this dish vegan or dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap butter for vegan margarine, heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream, and use dairy-free cheese ravioli. Fresh herbs and lemon will keep the flavor bright and satisfying.
What kind of ravioli works best?
Cheese-stuffed ravioli pairs perfectly with this creamy sauce. You can also experiment with spinach and ricotta ravioli or even mushroom fillings for unique variations.
Is it better to use fresh or dried herbs?
Fresh herbs make the biggest impact in this recipe, giving it a lively aroma and flavor. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch but use about a third of the amount and add earlier in cooking to bloom their flavor.
Can I use lemon juice from a bottle?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended to achieve that crisp, natural brightness that elevates the sauce, though bottled lemon juice can work if fresh is unavailable.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
Adding Parmigiano Reggiano helps thicken the sauce naturally. If you prefer it even thicker, after adding the cheese, simmer for a few extra minutes uncovered to reduce the sauce further.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Lemon Herb Butter Ravioli Recipe is the kind of dish that feels special but is so easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknights or when entertaining friends. Its balance of creamy richness and bright citrus-herb flavors will make it a favorite in your recipe box. Give it a try and enjoy every luscious, comforting bite!
