Raviola
A hearty Italian-inspired pasta dish featuring savory ground meat, rich tomato sauce, and creamy cheese, perfect for satisfying family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat butter in a large skillet or stew pan.
- Cook green pepper and onion until tender.
- Add ground steak and cook until browned, turning several times to coat with butter.
- In a separate stew pan, combine tomatoes, salt, sugar, soda, and chili powder.
- Cook the tomato mixture until reduced in bulk by about half, approximately 20 minutes.
- Add the cooked meat mixture to the tomato sauce and simmer together for an additional 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. You can also substitute fresh tomatoes if you prefer a more vibrant flavor. Adding a pinch of Italian herbs such as oregano or basil can enhance the sauce's depth. If you're short on time, pre-cooked spaghetti can be a great time-saver.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your raviola with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. A side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad pairs well, creating a complete meal. For a heartier feast, try it alongside Sicilian-Style Meatballs And Fettuccine for a delightful Italian spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to maintain creaminess. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Raviola contains roughly 927 calories, with 27g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 68g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (134% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (82% of the Daily Value), and protein (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2579mg per serving (112% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the ground steak and substituting it with a mix of sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach. Additionally, you may want to use vegetable broth instead of any meat-based ingredients in the sauce for added flavor.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, you can simmer it longer to reduce excess liquid. Alternatively, add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) towards the end of cooking. This will help achieve a desired consistency without altering the flavor.
What other types of cheese can I use?
If cream cheese isn't available, ricotta or mascarpone can be excellent substitutes that will add creaminess. You might also consider mozzarella for a melty texture or a sharper cheese like feta or aged provolone for a tangy kick. Experiment to find your favorite combination!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).