Name: Creamy Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 package fresh or frozen cheese-filled ravioli (Cook fresh in 3-5 minutes or frozen in 8-10 minutes.); 1 tablespoon salt (For cooking water.); 4 ounces pancetta or bacon (Crispy texture.); 2 cloves garlic (Minced.); 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup whole milk (Optional.); 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (Freshly grated.); 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper; 2 large egg yolks (Tempered.); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (To sauté garlic.); 1/4 cup extra Parmesan; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (Chopped.); to taste cracked black pepper

As I stood in my kitchen, the savory aroma of sizzling pancetta danced through the air, instantly transporting me to an Olive Garden booth with a warm breadstick in hand. This Creamy Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara recipe takes the classic Italian comfort food and gives it an exciting twist by using cheese-filled ravioli instead of traditional pasta. Not only is it quick and easy to whip up in about 25 minutes, but this dish is also a true crowd-pleaser—perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or special family gatherings. Picture a luscious sauce enveloping each ravioli, ready to delight your taste buds with its creamy goodness. So, are you ready to indulge in a comforting plate of homemade pasta magic?

Why is this recipe a must-try?

Comforting and Familiar: This Creamy Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara embraces the comforting warmth of Italian-American cuisine, sure to evoke fond memories of family dinners.

Quick to Prepare: With just 25 minutes to make, it transforms a busy weeknight into a gourmet experience without the hassle.

Versatile Choice: Switch up the ravioli for tortellini or even use a vegetarian bacon option for your personal twist on this classic.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Each bite offers a burst of rich flavors from crispy pancetta, fresh garlic, and creamy sauce, making it a hit with adults and kids alike!

Easy to Master: Even novice cooks will find success with this simple recipe, allowing everyone to feel like a chef in the kitchen. Dive into the joy of cooking with this delightful dish!

Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara Ingredients

For the Ravioli
Fresh or Frozen Cheese-Filled Ravioli – The star of the dish; fresh takes 3-5 minutes, while frozen cooks in 8-10 minutes.
For the Sauce
Salt – Essential for enhancing the flavor of your pasta cooking water.
Pancetta or Bacon – Adds a savory, crispy texture; if pancetta isn’t available, bacon makes a fine substitute.
Garlic – This aromatic ingredient elevates the sauce; mince it for quicker blending.
Heavy Cream – Provides rich creaminess; a crucial component of this Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara.
Whole Milk – Optional for lightening; perfect if you want a less rich sauce.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds savory depth; always opt for freshly grated for the best flavor.
Ground Black Pepper – A must for seasoning; it brings warmth to your dish.
Egg Yolks – Enrich the texture of the sauce; remember to temper them with warm sauce to avoid curdling.
Unsalted Butter – Used to sauté the garlic, it enhances the overall flavor.
For Garnishing
Extra Parmesan and Fresh Parsley – A finishing touch that adds flavor and elevates the presentation.
Cracked Black Pepper – Adjust to taste for that perfect final kick.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

Step 1: Cook Ravioli
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add your fresh or frozen cheese-filled ravioli, cooking them according to package instructions—3 to 5 minutes for fresh and 8 to 10 minutes for frozen. When they float to the surface, they’re ready! Reserve about 120 milliliters of the pasta cooking water, then drain the ravioli and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare Pancetta/Bacon
In a large skillet, heat over medium heat and add diced pancetta or bacon. Sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes, or until the pieces are crispy and golden brown. Carefully transfer the cooked pancetta to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon of fat in the skillet to enhance flavor in the next step.

Step 3: Make Carbonara Sauce
Using the same skillet, lower the heat to medium-low and melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Then, stir in the heavy cream and whole milk, letting the mixture blend for 2 to 3 minutes over gentle heat. Next, whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, ground black pepper, and salt until smoothly incorporated and melted.

Step 4: Incorporate Egg Yolks
To enrich the sauce without curdling, whisk the egg yolks in a bowl and temper them with a small amount of the warm carbonara sauce. Gradually mix the tempered yolks back into the skillet, stirring continuously for about 2 minutes. This process thickens the sauce, creating a rich, creamy texture for your Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara.

Step 5: Combine Ravioli and Sauce
Gently add the drained ravioli to the skillet, using tongs to toss them in the creamy sauce until well-coated. Return the crispy pancetta or bacon to the skillet, ensuring everything is mixed thoroughly. If necessary, adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding some of the reserved pasta water, until you achieve a desired creamy texture.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once fully combined, plate your delicious Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara and sprinkle generously with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color. Finish with a crack of black pepper over each plate, enhancing both presentation and flavor. Serve immediately to enjoy the delightful creaminess and satisfying warmth of this comforting dish.

Helpful Tricks for Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

Prevent Curdling: Temper egg yolks by whisking them with warm sauce before adding to the skillet. This step is crucial for your Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara to avoid a grainy texture.

Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, slowly incorporate the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach the perfect creamy consistency.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for freshly grated Parmesan cheese and freshly minced garlic to elevate the flavor profile; they make a noticeable difference in your dish’s richness.

Cooking Time Caution: Be mindful not to overcook the ravioli; they should be tender yet firm. Perfectly cooked ravioli ensures a satisfying bite.

Storage Tips: Keep leftovers in a covered container for up to three days. Reheat gently and consider adding a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.

Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and make this delicious dish truly your own with these exciting variations!

Tortellini Swap: Substitute the ravioli with cheese-filled tortellini for a delightful twist that’ll please pasta lovers.
Vegetarian Bacon: Use smoked turkey bacon or plant-based bacon crumbles for a lighter, yet equally flavorful option.
Extra Veggies: Toss in fresh spinach or frozen peas in the last minute of cooking to boost nutrition and add color.
Herb-Infused: Enhance the flavor by adding fresh basil or oregano to the sauce, creating a fragrant Italian profile.
Spice it Up: Sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes to give your dish a little kick and tantalize your taste buds.
Creamy Dream: For a richer sauce, swap out whole milk for additional heavy cream, intensifying that luscious texture.
Cheese Lovers Unite: Mix in some goat cheese or mozzarella for an extra layer of creamy goodness that will leave you wanting more.
Onion Kick: Add sautéed onions along with the garlic for a depth of flavor that complements the existing ingredients beautifully.

These tweaks can elevate your Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara experience! If you enjoy exploring flavors, consider serving it with fresh garlic bread or a crisp side salad to balance the meal. You may also like our delicious Garlic Butter Pasta or the refreshing Mediterranean Chickpea Salad for delightful pairings.

What to Serve with Creamy Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

Picture a perfect family meal accompanied by delightful side dishes that complement the rich flavors of your dish.

Garlic Bread: The classic Italian accompaniment, buttery and toasted, is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. Each bite draws you deeper into the comforting flavors of the meal.
Crisp Side Salad: A refreshing mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers with a light vinaigrette adds a textural contrast to the creamy carbonara, brightening up every forkful.
Roasted Broccoli: Tender, caramelized broccoli brings a pleasant earthiness while its crunch adds depth to your plate, making it a nutritious pairing.
Marinated Olives: A small bowl of assorted marinated olives serves as a bite-sized burst of flavor that elevates your meal with its briny, savory notes.
Peach Iced Tea: This sweet and refreshing drink contrasts beautifully with the richness of the ravioli, cleansing the palate and enhancing the dining experience.
Tiramisu: For dessert, this indulgent coffee-flavored treat offers a creamy finish that resonates with the Italian theme, rounding out your meal on a sweet note.

Make Ahead Options

These Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara are perfect for busy weeknights when you want to save time! You can prepare the sauce up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the steps to create the creamy mixture and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For optimal quality, keep the pancetta crispy by storing it separately. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, cook the ravioli as directed, reheat the sauce gently over low heat (adding a splash of reserved pasta water for creaminess), and combine everything before serving. This allows you to whip up a restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort on a hectic evening!

How to Store and Freeze Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive creaminess.

Freezer: For longer storage, portion the Ravioli Carbonara into airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. If the sauce appears thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water or milk to reach your desired consistency.

Don’t Skip the Storage Tips: Proper storage helps maintain the lovely texture and taste of your Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara, allowing you to enjoy it again without sacrificing flavor!

Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara Recipe FAQs

What type of ravioli should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use either fresh or frozen cheese-filled ravioli. Fresh ravioli usually takes just 3-5 minutes to cook, while frozen ravioli will require about 8-10 minutes. Both options deliver delicious results, so choose based on what’s available to you!

How should I store leftovers of Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara?
You can easily store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the creamy texture. This will help you enjoy your delicious creation just as much as the first time!

Can I freeze Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara?
Yes, you can freeze it! Portion the Ravioli Carbonara into airtight containers, ensuring they’re well-sealed, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the containers overnight in the fridge and then reheat gently. If needed, add a little reserved pasta water or milk during reheating to rejuvenate the sauce.

How can I prevent the sauce from curdling?
To prevent curdling, it’s vital to temper the egg yolks before adding them to the sauce. Begin by whisking the egg yolks in a bowl, then add a small amount of warm sauce to the yolks while whisking. Gradually incorporate this mixture back into the skillet with the rest of the sauce, stirring continuously. This method helps achieve that luscious, creamy texture without any graininess.

Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Certainly! If you have dietary restrictions, feel free to substitute the pancetta with smoked turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon crumbles for a lighter or meat-free option. Additionally, always ensure that the cheese used is suitable for your dietary needs, especially for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. Enjoy customizing your Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara to your dietary preferences!