Ravioli And Meat Balls
A hearty Italian-inspired dish featuring tender meatballs simmered in tomato sauce, served over ravioli and topped with Parmesan cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Lightly form the ground chuck into 24 meatballs.
- In a large skillet, heat salad oil over medium heat and brown the meatballs about 10 minutes.
- Drain off excess fat from the skillet.
- Add tomato sauce and dried herbs to the skillet with meatballs, simmer for a few minutes.
- Cook ravioli according to package instructions, then drain.
- Serve the meatballs and sauce over cooked ravioli, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, consider adding minced garlic or chopped onions to the meatball mixture. If you want a lighter dish, substitute ground turkey for ground chuck. You can also use homemade or frozen ravioli for a more authentic touch. Fresh herbs can enhance the sauce; feel free to use them instead of dried if available. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ravioli topped with the meatballs and sauce, then sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese. A sprinkle of fresh parsley can add a pop of color. This dish pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a fresh Italian salad for a complete meal. For a different twist, try it alongside a light vegetable dish like Vegetable Stuffed Manicotti.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the meatballs and sauce on the stovetop over low heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed. Ravioli can be reheated in the microwave, but for best texture, consider pan-searing them briefly after microwaving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ravioli And Meat Balls contains roughly 561 calories, with 12g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (62% of the Daily Value), iron (59% of the Daily Value), and calcium (42% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 919mg per serving (40% 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 freeze the meatballs and sauce?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs and sauce together or separately. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in airtight containers or freezer bags. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove.
What can I substitute for tomato sauce?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can use marinara sauce or crushed tomatoes as a substitute for the tomato sauce. For a richer taste, add a splash of red wine to the sauce while simmering. You might also consider a creamy sauce for a unique twist.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the meatballs with store-bought or homemade veggie meatballs. You can also use lentils or mushrooms for a hearty texture. Ensure the ravioli is filled with cheese or vegetables, and use a vegetable-based tomato sauce for the best results.
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).