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Brown Butter and Lemon Toasted Skillet Ravioli Recipe

Brown Butter and Lemon Toasted Skillet Ravioli Recipe
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★★★★★

4.8 from 29 reviews

This Brown Butter and Lemon Toasted Skillet Ravioli is a quick and delicious Italian-inspired dish featuring golden, crispy cheese ravioli toasted in brown butter, then finished with fresh lemon zest, creamy ricotta, and vibrant microgreens. It’s a comforting yet elegant meal that combines rich, nutty flavors with bright citrus notes, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Ravioli and Butter

  • 6 tablespoons salted butter
  • 1 pound uncooked cheese ravioli (thawed if frozen)
  • ⅓ cup water

Flavorings and Garnishes

  • 1 lemon (zest freshly grated)
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • Microgreens or fresh herbs, for serving
  • Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat the Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of the salted butter. Let it bubble gently, occasionally turning the pan to ensure even browning. Watch carefully as the butter begins to brown and you see the first golden bits; this imparts a rich, nutty flavor essential for the dish.
  2. Toast the Ravioli: Add the uncooked (but thawed if previously frozen) cheese ravioli in a single layer to the browned butter. Toast them without moving for about 2 to 3 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crisp. Flip the ravioli and toast the other side until also beautifully golden and crisp.
  3. Steam the Ravioli: Pour ⅓ cup of water into the pan and immediately cover it with a lid. Let the ravioli steam for 5 to 8 minutes until tender and cooked through. This step ensures the cheese filling inside is warm and melty while maintaining the toasted exterior.
  4. Finish with Butter and Seasoning: Remove the lid and toss the ravioli gently in the pan. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt, coating the ravioli richly. Season with freshly cracked black pepper and add kosher salt if desired—you might find the salted butter enough for seasoning.
  5. Add Ricotta, Lemon Zest, and Herbs: Remove the skillet from heat. Add a few dollops of creamy ricotta cheese over the ravioli, sprinkle freshly grated lemon zest, and garnish generously with microgreens or fresh herbs for a bright, fresh finish. Serve immediately to enjoy the mix of textures and flavors at their best.

Notes

  • If using frozen ravioli, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even browning.
  • Use good quality salted butter for a richer flavor and natural seasoning.
  • Fresh lemon zest brightens the dish, but avoid adding lemon juice to prevent sogginess.
  • Microgreens or fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme work wonderfully as garnishes.
  • You can substitute ricotta with mascarpone or a mild goat cheese for variation.
  • Serve immediately as the crisp texture is best enjoyed right after cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: brown butter, lemon, toasted ravioli, skillet ravioli, cheese ravioli, ricotta, Italian recipe, easy dinner, crispy pasta

Find it online: https://nataliereeve.com/brown-butter-and-lemon-toasted-skillet-ravioli-recipe/