Homemade Four Cheese Ravioli: Easy Italian Pasta Recipe

Homemade Four Cheese Ravioli: A Delicious Italian Dinner

Ravioli is the ultimate comfort food, and this homemade four cheese ravioli recipe will make you fall in love with Italian cuisine all over again.

Ingredients for Four Cheese Ravioli

• 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded provolone cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• For the pesto cream sauce:
  • ½ cup prepared basil pesto
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Cheese Ravioli

1. Make the pasta dough: On a clean surface, mound the flour and create a well in the center. Crack the eggs into the well, add olive oil and a pinch of salt. Using a fork, gradually incorporate flour into the eggs until a shaggy dough forms.
2. Knead and rest: Knead the dough for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Wrap in plastic wrap and let rest at room temperature for 30 minutes.
3. Prepare the filling: In a bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, provolone, Parmesan, salt and pepper. Stir until well combined and creamy.
4. Roll out the dough: Divide dough into two portions. Using a pasta machine or rolling pin, roll each piece into a thin sheet (about 1/16 inch thick). Dust with flour to prevent sticking.
5. Shape the ravioli: Place teaspoon-sized mounds of filling 1 inch apart on one sheet. Brush around each mound with water, then lay the second sheet on top. Press firmly around filling to seal, ensuring no air bubbles remain. Cut into individual ravioli with a knife or pasta cutter.
6. Cook the ravioli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Cook ravioli in batches for 3–4 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Remove with a slotted spoon.
7. Make the pesto cream sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine pesto and heavy cream. Stir until warm and slightly thickened, about 2–3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve and garnish: Plate the ravioli, spoon over the pesto cream sauce, and garnish with fresh basil. Enjoy hot!

Tips for Perfect Homemade Ravioli

• Rest the dough: Allowing the dough to rest makes rolling easier and prevents shrinkage.
• Seal edges well: Press firmly to avoid sauce leakage during cooking.
• Use a pasta cutter: For uniform shapes, a ravioli stamp or cutter is a game-changer.

Creative Variations

Swap cheeses, add fresh herbs to the filling, or serve with a simple tomato basil sauce for a twist on classic ravioli.

Total Time: 1 h 30 m | Prep Time: 40 m | Cook Time: 20 m | Servings: 4 servings

Enjoy every cheesy bite of homemade ravioli.