Introduction

This easy butternut squash ravioli with maple cream sauce combines comforting fall flavors with a creamy, savory touch. The rich maple-infused sauce pairs perfectly with the sweet ravioli and savory sausage for a delicious meal anyone can make at home.

A bowl filled with several round ravioli with golden yellow pasta shells, each ravioli topped with a creamy white sauce speckled with finely chopped herbs. Small pieces of bright green parsley are sprinkled on top of the sauce, adding a pop of color. The ravioli are closely stacked in the bowl, showing the smooth texture of the pasta around the edges and the scattered sauce spots. The bowl is white with a soft blue outer rim and set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed, if applicable)
2 cups baby spinach (about 4 oz)
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp minced garlic (freshly minced for best flavor)
1 package butternut squash ravioli
black pepper to taste
2 to 3 tbsp pure maple syrup (grade A amber, for deep flavor)
1 tsp dried thyme
salt to taste
16 fl oz light cream (half-and-half works well)
3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (I like Tillamook sharp cheddar)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large sauté pan, heat olive oil and add the sausage. Use a meat chopper or spatula to break the sausage into small pieces. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until browned. While the sausage cooks, bring a large pot of water to a boil for the ravioli.
Step 2: When the sausage is nearly done, drain any excess fat from the pan. Add the minced garlic and stir to combine. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to cook the garlic and finish cooking the sausage. Reduce the heat to low afterward.
Step 3: Pour the light cream, maple syrup, dried thyme, and black pepper into the pan with the sausage. Simmer on low, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and reduces by about one-quarter.
Step 4: Once the sauce has thickened, turn off the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated. Season with salt and additional pepper to taste. Cover the pan to keep the sauce warm.
Step 5: Cook the butternut squash ravioli according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and add it directly to the cream sauce in the pan. Stir gently to coat the ravioli evenly.
Step 6: Serve the creamy sausage and ravioli immediately for the best flavor. Enjoy your comforting, delicious dish while hot!

Tips & Variations

For extra veggies, stir in fresh spinach during the last minute of cooking the sausage and garlic.
Swap the cheddar for Parmesan for a sharper, nuttier flavor in the cream sauce.
If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce or omit the maple syrup.
Use half-and-half instead of light cream to lighten the sauce without losing creaminess.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from separating. Adding a splash of cream or milk can help restore creamy texture during reheating.

How to Serve

Several small, half-moon shaped pieces of dough filled with stuffing are placed on a dark floured surface with a dusting of white flour around them. Each piece shows a slightly raised, smooth, pale yellow dough layer on top with crimped edges that create a zigzag pattern. A round pastry cutter with a wooden handle and a scalloped metal edge is resting on the far right, slightly pressing into a piece of dough. A circular metal cutter is visible on the left side in the background. The scene gives a close-up view of raw ravioli being prepared. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought ravioli for this recipe?

Yes, using store-bought butternut squash ravioli makes this dish quick and easy without compromising flavor. Just cook according to package directions.

What can I substitute for Italian sausage?

If you prefer a vegetarian option, try sautéing mushrooms or using a plant-based sausage substitute. Otherwise, mild or sweet Italian sausage works well if you want less spice.