Savory Caramelized Onion Ravioli

Name: Savory Caramelized Onion Ravioli
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 3 large eggs; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 large onions, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish; Grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Comfort Dinner Recipes

I’ve always had a soft spot for rich, savory flavors, and this Savory Caramelized Onion Ravioli does not disappoint. Every bite is a delightful combination of sweet and savory, enhanced by the sumptuous filling that I created with slow-cooked onions and creamy ricotta cheese. I find that the addition of fresh herbs adds an aromatic touch that takes this dish to a whole new level. Whether you’re serving it as a comforting weeknight meal or an impressive dish for guests, it’s sure to become a favorite.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-08T13:50:33.322Z

Creating the perfect ravioli has been a culinary adventure for me, and this Savory Caramelized Onion Ravioli stands out as a highlight. I stumbled upon the idea during a dinner party where I wanted to impress, and the combination of sweet caramelized onions with creamy ricotta cheese instantly enchanted everyone at the table. The key is to take your time when caramelizing the onions; the slower you cook them, the richer the flavor.

Moreover, I learned that using fresh herbs not only complements the sweetness of the onions but also adds a beautiful aroma that fills the kitchen. This dish is not just about taste; it’s also about the experience of savoring each homemade bite, showcasing the love and effort put into making a classic Italian favorite.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously sweet and savory filling
Elegant presentation for special occasions
Perfect balance of flavors in every bite

      

Mastering the Dough

The dough is the foundation of perfect ravioli, and mastering it is essential. Using a combination of flour, eggs, salt, and olive oil gives the dough a rich flavor and pliable texture. When mixing, ensure the dough is not too wet; if it sticks to your hands, sprinkle in a little more flour. Kneading for a full ten minutes is crucial to develop gluten, which provides that desirable chewy bite. Letting it rest for 30 minutes is equally important, as it relaxes the gluten, making it easier to roll out.

To roll out the dough uniformly, invest in a quality pasta machine. If using a rolling pin, aim for thinness—about 1/16-inch thick. A properly rolled sheet will be semi-transparent. Cut the dough into sizes that suit your ravioli shape; entirely closed edges are ideal for containing that luscious filling without bursting during cooking.

Elevating the Filling

Caramelizing the onions is where the magic happens—this step transforms their sharpness into deep, sweet flavors. Be patient; cook the onions over medium heat for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until they reach a golden brown color. This not only enhances their natural sweetness but also intensifies the overall flavor of your filling. If the onions begin to brown too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to prevent burning.

The combination of ricotta and Parmesan adds creaminess and complexity to the filling. If you're looking to make a lighter version, you can substitute part of the ricotta with cottage cheese, blending it until smooth. For an extra layer of flavor, a pinch of nutmeg complements the sweetness of the onions beautifully, making your filling truly standout.

Ingredients

For the Ravioli Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
3 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Filling

2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

Fresh basil for garnish
Grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the eggs and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.

Wrap in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown, about 15 minutes. Mix the caramelized onions with ricotta, Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

Roll Out the Dough

Divide the dough into four parts. Roll out each part into thin sheets using a pasta machine or rolling pin, dusting with flour to prevent sticking.

Fill the Ravioli

Place a teaspoon of filling on one sheet of dough, spacing them evenly. Moisten the edges with water and cover with another sheet of dough, pressing to seal. Cut into squares or desired shapes.

Cook the Ravioli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the ravioli and cook for 3-4 minutes until they float to the surface. Remove with a slotted spoon.

Serve

Plate the ravioli and garnish with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding garlic to the caramelized onions or a splash of white wine during cooking. Fresh pasta cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.

Make-Ahead Tips

This ravioli recipe is excellent for meal prep. You can make the dough and the filling a day in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply roll out the dough, fill, and boil. Alternatively, assemble the ravioli and freeze them uncooked. Place each ravioli on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Afterward, transfer them to a freezer bag; they can be cooked directly from frozen.

If you have leftover filling, try using it to stuff other pasta shapes like shells or lasagna for a quick weeknight dinner. The versatility of the filling means it can even be enjoyed as a dip with bread or vegetable sticks.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your Savory Caramelized Onion Ravioli, consider pairing it with a light brown butter sauce for added richness. Simply melt butter in a pan over medium heat until it turns golden and fragrant, then toss in the cooked ravioli before plating. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as basil or thyme, brightens up the dish and enhances the flavors.

For a refreshing twist, consider a side salad with arugula and a lemon vinaigrette. The peppery notes of the arugula provide a nice contrast to the sweet ravioli, making for a well-rounded meal. Plus, if you have any fresh ingredients from your garden or local market, feel free to incorporate them into the salad for a seasonal touch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought ravioli dough?

Absolutely! Store-bought dough is a great time-saver and works perfectly for this recipe.

→ How can I store leftover ravioli?

Cooked ravioli can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze uncooked ravioli for up to a month.

→ What can I serve with ravioli?

This ravioli pairs well with a simple marinara sauce, brown butter sage sauce, or even just drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

→ Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes! The filling can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to fill the ravioli.