Pumpkin Ravioli with Brown Butter Sauce

If you are on the lookout for a dish that combines cozy autumn flavors with a touch of elegant simplicity, prepare to fall head over heels for this Pumpkin Ravioli with Brown Butter Sauce. This recipe wraps tender pasta around a luxuriously creamy pumpkin filling, then elevates the whole experience with a nutty, aromatic brown butter sauce kissed by crisp sage leaves. Every bite sings with warmth and comfort, making it an unforgettable meal whether you’re entertaining guests or indulging in a quiet night at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Crafting the perfect Pumpkin Ravioli with Brown Butter Sauce is delightfully straightforward, thanks to a handful of fresh, uncomplicated ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in balancing textures and flavors — from the creamy pumpkin and rich cheeses to the fragrant sage and luscious browned butter.

• Pumpkin puree: Use fresh or canned puree, but avoid pumpkin pie filling to keep the flavor pure and savory.
• Ricotta or mascarpone cheese: Adds creaminess and smooth texture to the filling.
• Parmesan cheese: Brings a sharp, salty bite into both the filling and as a garnish.
• Ground nutmeg: Just a sprinkle enhances the pumpkin’s natural sweetness and adds warmth.
• All-purpose flour: The foundation for homemade dough, giving the pasta structure.
• Eggs: Bind the dough together and provide elasticity.
• Unsalted butter: Key to making the brown butter sauce that is simply divine.
• Fresh sage leaves: Crisped in the butter for an irresistible earthy aroma.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning both filling and sauce to perfection.

How to Make Pumpkin Ravioli with Brown Butter Sauce

Step 1: Make the Ravioli Dough (Optional)

Creating your own pasta dough may seem intimidating, but it’s actually quite rewarding and allows you to control the texture perfectly. Start by making a well in your flour on a clean surface, crack fresh eggs into the center, and add a pinch of salt. Gently incorporate the flour into the eggs with a fork until dough forms, then knead until smooth and elastic. Let it rest wrapped in plastic wrap for 30 minutes — this resting step is crucial for tender, stretchable pasta sheets.

Step 2: Prepare the Ravioli Filling

In a medium bowl, blend pumpkin puree with ricotta or mascarpone, Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until beautifully smooth. This filling is creamy, mildly sweet, and perfectly spiced, making it the star inside each delicate pocket of ravioli.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough and Assemble Ravioli

Divide your rested dough into two halves. Roll one half out on a floured surface until about 1/8 inch thick. Spoon teaspoons of the pumpkin mixture evenly across the dough, leaving space between each dollop. Carefully lay the second sheet of dough on top. Press gently around the filling to seal, making sure there’s no air trapped inside. Use a pastry cutter or knife to cut out individual ravioli squares.

Step 4: Cook the Ravioli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and gently add the ravioli. When they float to the surface, usually in about 3 to 4 minutes, they’re cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove them carefully and set aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 5: Make the Brown Butter Sauce

In a skillet over medium heat, melt unsalted butter and let it cook until golden brown, about 3 to 4 minutes. This is where the flavor magic happens — the butter develops a nutty aroma and a rich taste that perfectly complements the pumpkin. Add fresh sage leaves and cook until they turn crispy, then season with salt and pepper.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked ravioli lightly in the brown butter sauce so each piece is lovingly coated. Plate carefully, drizzle remaining sauce over, and finish with an extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan and crisp sage leaves for an elegant final touch.

How to Serve Pumpkin Ravioli with Brown Butter Sauce

Garnishes

Freshly grated Parmesan is a must for finishing Pumpkin Ravioli with Brown Butter Sauce, adding that salty depth that cuts through the richness. Sprinkle a few crunchy sage leaves on top to elevate the aroma and provide a delightful textural contrast.

Side Dishes

This dish shines best when paired with simple, light sides. A crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables can complement the ravioli without overpowering its flavors. If you want a heartier option, buttery garlic bread is always a winner.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, arrange the ravioli in overlapping circles on warm plates and drizzle the brown butter sauce artistically with a spoon. Garnish each plate with a sage sprig and a dusting of Parmesan. Serve family-style in a large, rustic bowl to invite sharing and cozy conversation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers of Pumpkin Ravioli with Brown Butter Sauce, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the ravioli and sauce separate if possible to maintain the best texture.

Freezing

You can freeze homemade ravioli before cooking by placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freezing until firm, and then transferring them to a freezer bag. This way, your Pumpkin Ravioli with Brown Butter Sauce is ready for a convenient and impressive meal any time.

Reheating

To reheat, sauté the cooked ravioli gently in a pan with a bit of the reserved brown butter sauce or a little olive oil. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pasta rubbery. Reheating this way helps keep the flavors vibrant and the textures just right.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin for the filling?

Yes, canned pumpkin puree works beautifully as long as you choose pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.

Is it necessary to make the pasta dough from scratch?

Not at all! You can use store-bought fresh pasta sheets to save time. Homemade dough is a lovely touch but not essential for delicious results.

How do I know when the ravioli is cooked?

Once the ravioli float to the surface of the boiling water, they are cooked through. This usually happens within 3 to 4 minutes.

Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Absolutely! The filling can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated in an airtight container, which actually helps the flavors deepen.

What if I don’t have fresh sage?

While fresh sage gives the best flavor and texture, dried sage can be used in the sauce — add it sparingly as it is more concentrated and won’t crisp up like fresh leaves.

Final Thoughts

Making Pumpkin Ravioli with Brown Butter Sauce at home is such a rewarding kitchen adventure packed with cozy, seasonal flavors that feel like a hug on a plate. Whether you’re impressing your friends or simply treating yourself to something special, this dish is guaranteed to delight and comfort with every forkful. Give it a try and enjoy creating a little fall magic right in your own kitchen!

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