Description

If you've ever dined at Olive Garden, you know that their Ravioli Carbonara is one of the standout dishes on the menu. This delectable pasta dish marries the rich, creamy flavors of carbonara with the delightful texture of ravioli, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion. The best part? You can now recreate this restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a gathering of friends, this recipe is sure to impress even the most discerning palates.

Ingredients

• 1 package of cheese ravioli (about 20 oz)
• 6 slices of bacon, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Preparation Method

Cook the Ravioli: Begin by cooking the cheese ravioli according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the ravioli and set it aside.

Prepare the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat. Keep about two tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet.

Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic to the bacon grease and sauté until fragrant, which should take about 1-2 minutes.

Make the Sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and blend into the cream. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens slightly.

Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked ravioli to the skillet, tossing them gently to coat in the creamy sauce. Stir in the frozen peas and the crispy bacon, allowing everything to heat through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve: Once everything is well combined and heated, transfer the ravioli carbonara to serving plates. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip: Elevate the Dish with a Twist

While this Ravioli Carbonara is already a rich and satisfying dish, you can take it to the next level with a few simple additions. Consider adding sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor. If you're feeling indulgent, a drizzle of truffle oil just before serving will add a luxurious touch that will leave your guests in awe. Additionally, you can use a blend of Parmesan and Pecorino Romano cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.
Conclusion: An Elegant Meal Without the Restaurant Bill

Recreating Olive Garden’s Ravioli Carbonara at home is not just a way to save money; it’s an opportunity to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal with your personal touch. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough to serve on special occasions. The combination of creamy sauce, crispy bacon, and tender ravioli makes for a comforting and indulgent dish that everyone will love.

Plus, the ability to customize the recipe to suit your tastes—whether by adding extra vegetables, experimenting with different types of ravioli, or enhancing the dish with gourmet ingredients—means that this Ravioli Carbonara can become a beloved staple in your home-cooked repertoire. The next time you're craving a taste of Olive Garden, skip the reservation and enjoy this delightful dish from the comfort of your own kitchen.