Butternut Squash Ravioli with Brown Butter

Name: Butternut Squash Ravioli with Brown Butter
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 cup roasted butternut squash, pureed; 1/2 cup ricotta cheese; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; Salt to taste; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 8-10 fresh sage leaves; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely adore making butternut squash ravioli, especially when it’s drizzled with brown butter. Each bite is a delicate mix of sweet and savory flavors that dance on my palate. The rich, nutty aroma fills my kitchen, making it hard to resist. This recipe has evolved over time, and I’ve found that the combination of freshly made pasta and roasted butternut squash creates a hearty yet elegant dish. Perfect for cozy evenings, this ravioli is bound to impress anyone at your table!

Created by

Skylar Jennings

Last updated on 2026-01-07T12:16:12.521Z

Creating butternut squash ravioli is always a delightful experience for me. I roast the squash until it's tender and sweet, which enhances its natural flavors. After pureeing it, I mix it with just the right amount of spices.

For the brown butter sauce, I let the butter cook until it turns a beautiful golden brown, which adds a nutty depth to the entire dish. This simple technique transforms the ravioli into a truly gourmet experience. Don't skip toasting some sage leaves to elevate the flavors even more!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Delightfully sweet butternut flavor wrapped in tender pasta
Irresistible brown butter sauce with a nutty aroma
Perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties

      

Choosing the Right Butternut Squash

When making butternut squash ravioli, the choice of squash is crucial to achieving the perfect sweetness and creaminess in your filling. Look for squash that feels heavy for its size and has a smooth, firm skin without blemishes. A medium-sized butternut squash typically yields about 1 cup of puree, which is ideal for this recipe. To prepare it, cut it in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and roast it face down on a baking sheet at 400°F for about 30-40 minutes until tender. This method enhances the natural sweetness by caramelizing the sugars.

If you're short on time, you can also use pre-packaged butternut squash puree from the store. However, making your own roasting the squash adds depth to the flavor that you might miss in the canned variety. For a twist on the traditional filling, try mixing in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added texture and flavor.

Perfecting Your Ravioli Technique

When rolling out the pasta dough, aim for a thickness of about 1/16 inch. If the dough is too thick, the ravioli will be chewy and miss the delicate texture that compliments the filling. During rolling, dust your work surface and the dough lightly with flour to prevent sticking, but avoid overdoing it to keep the pasta from becoming too dry. A pasta machine can help achieve even thickness, but a rolling pin works just as well with a bit of practice.

Sealing the ravioli is another key step. Be sure to press down firmly around the filling to eliminate any air pockets, as these can cause the ravioli to burst while cooking. Use a fork to crimp the edges for an extra secure seal and a decorative touch. If you're making a large batch, you can freeze uncooked ravioli on a baking sheet and transfer them to a bag once solid; they can be cooked directly from frozen for a quick meal.

Ways to Serve and Elevate Your Dish

Serving butternut squash ravioli with brown butter sauce is delightful on its own, but adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or walnuts can provide an appealing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender pasta. Additionally, you might consider drizzling a touch of balsamic reduction over the dish or garnishing it with pomegranate seeds to introduce a tart, refreshing element that brightens the flavors.

For a more substantial meal, pair your ravioli with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The peppery greens complement the sweetness of the ravioli. Consider offering a choice of grated cheese, like ricotta salata or goat cheese, on the side for guests to sprinkle according to their preference. With these simple additions, your meal will transform into a restaurant-quality experience right at home.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your delicious ravioli.

For the Ravioli

2 cups all-purpose flour
3 large eggs
1 cup roasted butternut squash, pureed
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt to taste

For the Brown Butter Sauce

1/2 cup unsalted butter
8-10 fresh sage leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect butternut squash ravioli.

Make the Pasta Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and eggs. Knead the mixture until a smooth dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a separate bowl, mix the butternut squash puree, ricotta cheese, nutmeg, and salt. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Roll Out the Dough

Divide the rested dough into four pieces. Roll out each piece into thin sheets using a pasta machine or rolling pin. Ensure the dough is thin enough to see through.

Form the Ravioli

Place small dollops of filling on one sheet of pasta, spacing them evenly. Moisten around the filling, then cover with another sheet of pasta. Press down to seal and cut out the ravioli.

Cook the Ravioli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the ravioli and cook for 4-5 minutes until they float to the top.

Make the Brown Butter Sauce

In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sage leaves and let them crisp up while the butter turns light brown and fragrant.

Serve

Transfer the cooked ravioli to the skillet with the brown butter. Toss gently to coat. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Enjoy your homemade ravioli with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For a flavorful twist, add a pinch of cinnamon to the butternut squash filling. Also, be careful not to overcook the ravioli to keep them tender.

Make-Ahead Options

Butternut squash ravioli can be prepared a day in advance to save time on serving day. Once shaped, layer the ravioli between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container, or flash freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a zip-top bag. You can keep them in the freezer for up to a month, making this a great dish for meal prepping or entertaining guests on short notice.

To cook frozen ravioli, there's no need to thaw—simply add them to boiling water straight from the freezer. Keep in mind that cooking time may extend to about 6-7 minutes. You’ll know they're done when they float to the surface and are tender to the bite.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your pasta dough feels too dry and crumbly, it likely needs a bit more moisture. Adding a teaspoon of water at a time can help bring it to the right consistency. On the other hand, if it’s too sticky, incorporate more flour gradually as you knead. Achieving the right texture is essential for easy rolling and shaping.

If you find your ravioli bursting during cooking, it may have too much filling or insufficient sealing. Ensure you distribute filling evenly and seal the edges thoroughly. Also, avoid overcrowding the pot when boiling to prevent them from sticking together.

Ingredient Substitutions

For those looking to make this dish gluten-free, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend. Just be cautious, as gluten-free pasta can behave differently than regular pasta. Make sure to rest the dough sufficiently to develop a workable texture.

If you prefer a lighter filling, swap out ricotta for cottage cheese or use a dairy-free alternative such as silken tofu blended until smooth. Adding herbs like thyme or chives to the filling can also enhance freshness and flavor, tailoring it to your personal taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pasta?

Yes, store-bought pasta can be a time-saver. However, homemade pasta provides a unique texture and flavor.

→ How do I store leftover ravioli?

Store leftover ravioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

→ Can I freeze the ravioli?

Yes, freeze the uncooked ravioli on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a bag for longer storage.

→ What can I serve with butternut squash ravioli?

This dish pairs beautifully with a salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.