Name: One Pot Ravioli in a Creamy Tomato Beef Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 5
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 onion; 4 cloves garlic; 1 lb extra lean ground beef; 15 oz condensed tomato soup; 2 cups water; 1 tsp sugar; 2 tbsp parsley; ½ tsp red chilli/pepper flakes; 1 tbsp garlic and herb tomato paste; salt and freshly ground black pepper; 12 oz refrigerated beef ravioli; 250 ml extra light Philly cream; ½ cup Mozzarella cheese; 2 grilled cheese sandwiches

Welcome to the world of easy, creamy, and savory one-pot dishes. This one-pot ravioli in a creamy tomato beef sauce recipe is a delightful fusion of Italian flavors and hearty comfort food. The blend of succulent ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and tender ravioli, all simmered in one pot, offers a satisfying meal that will leave your taste buds asking for more. The addition of creamy Philly cream and melted mozzarella takes this dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Photos of One Pot Ravioli in a Creamy Tomato Beef Sauce Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry staples like onions, garlic, and ground beef. However, you may need to head to the supermarket for the refrigerated beef ravioli, which is found in the refrigerated or frozen aisle. The extra light Philly cream is a lighter version of cream cheese and can be found in the dairy section. It adds a delightful creamy texture to the sauce.

Ingredients for One-Pot Ravioli in a Creamy Tomato Beef Sauce

Onion: A common vegetable that adds a unique flavor to the sauce. Garlic: Adds a rich, savory flavor. Ground beef: The primary protein in this dish, which adds a juicy, savory element. Condensed tomato soup: Acts as the base of the sauce. Water: Thins the sauce. Sugar, parsley, red chilli/pepper flakes, tomato paste: These seasonings enhance the flavors of the dish. Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings for any savory dish. Beef ravioli: Adds a hearty, satisfying element. Philly cream: Gives the sauce a creamy texture. Mozzarella cheese: Melts into the sauce for a gooey, cheesy element. Grilled cheese sandwiches: Used as croutons for a crunchy, cheesy topping.

One reader, Jimmy Corbin says:

This one-pot ravioli in creamy tomato beef sauce is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the recipe is so easy to follow. The creamy sauce perfectly complements the tender ravioli. It's a family favorite and a go-to for busy weeknights. Highly recommend trying it out!

Jimmy Corbin

Cooking Techniques for Mastering One-Pot Ravioli in a Creamy Tomato Beef Sauce

How to brown ground beef: In a large saucepan over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up any large pieces with the tip of a wooden spoon.

How to simmer ravioli: After bringing the sauce to a boil, reduce the heat and let the ravioli simmer until it is soft and cooked through.

How to prepare grilled cheese sandwiches: Fry the sandwiches in a nonstick pan until they are browned on both sides and the cheese has melted.

How to garnish with grilled cheese croutons: Allow the grilled cheese sandwiches to cool slightly, then cut off the crusts and cut them into bite-sized cube/crouton pieces before using them as a garnish for the ravioli.

How to serve immediately: Once the dish is ready, it can be served immediately, garnished with the grilled cheese croutons and extra fresh parsley.

How To Make One Pot Ravioli in a Creamy Tomato Beef Sauce

This one pot ravioli is cooked in a rich tomato sauce with lots of cheese and cream. This dish is best served with bread or grilled cheese croutons.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1onion,diced
4cloves garlic,crushed
1lbextra lean ground beef
15ozcondensed tomato soup,or crushed tomatoes
2cupswater,or 2 cups stock of choice
1tspsugar
2tbspparsley,freshly chopped
½tspred chilli/pepper flakes,crushed
1tbspgarlic and herb tomato paste,or plain
Salt and freshly ground black pepper,to taste
12ozrefrigerated beef ravioli
250mlextra light Philly cream,or any cream of choice
½cupmozzarella cheese,freshly grated
2grilled cheese sandwiches,crusts removed and cut into bite sized cubes/croutons

Instructions

Heat a large saucepan over medium heat with a little cooking oil spray. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until onion has softened and garlic is fragrant.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, while breaking up any large pieces with the tip of a wooden spoon.
Pour in the tomato soup (or crushed tomatoes), water (or stock), sugar, parsley, red chilli/pepper flakes and tomato paste; season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Bring to a boil and stir in ravioli. Reduce heat and simmer until ravioli is soft and cooked through.
While ravioli is simmering, prepare grilled cheese sandwiches; fry them in a nonstick pan until browned on both sides and cheese has melted.
Remove from heat; allow to cool slightly; cut off crusts; and cut into bite sized cube/crouton pieces.
Return to the ravioli; stir in cream and mozzarella cheese until well combined, cheese has melted and heated through the sauce.
Serve immediately, garnished with the grilled cheese croutons and (extra) fresh parsley.

Nutrition

Calories: 714.22kcal
Fat: 38.78g
Saturated Fat: 22.29g
Trans Fat: 0.33g
Monounsaturated Fat: 11.39g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.64g
Carbohydrates: 52.86g
Fiber: 3.31g
Sugar: 11.68g
Protein: 39.97g
Cholesterol: 188.40mg
Sodium: 1071.59mg
Calcium: 404.07mg
Potassium: 1027.41mg
Iron: 4.21mg
Vitamin A: 326.49µg
Vitamin C: 9.71mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting the Creamy Tomato Beef Sauce

When preparing the grilled cheese sandwiches for the croutons, it's important to cook them on a medium-low heat. This allows the cheese to fully melt without burning the bread. Additionally, using a good quality non-stick pan can help to achieve a golden, crispy crust without the need for too much oil or butter.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Delicious One-Pot Meal

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonder: Opt for one-pot recipes to minimize cleanup and save time on washing dishes.

Multitask: While the dish is simmering, use that time to prepare a quick side salad or set the table.

Efficient tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like a food processor or mandoline to speed up prep work.

Batch cooking: Make a larger portion and freeze the extra for a quick meal on a busy day.

Fresh vs. convenience: Consider using pre-cut vegetables or pre-made sauces to cut down on prep time.

Streamlined cleanup: Clean as you go to avoid a pile of dishes at the end of the cooking process.

Time-saving ingredients: Opt for pre-cooked or quick-cooking ingredients like pre-cooked ravioli or canned tomatoes.

Substitute Ingredients For One Pot Ravioli in a Creamy Tomato Beef Sauce Recipe

onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor compared to onions, adding a subtle sweetness to the dish.
extra lean ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a lean and healthy alternative to beef, providing a similar texture and flavor to the dish.
condensed tomato soup - Substitute with crushed tomatoes: Using crushed tomatoes will provide a fresher and more natural tomato flavor, and you can adjust the consistency by adding a bit of broth or water.
garlic and herb tomato paste - Substitute with tomato sauce with added garlic and herbs: This substitute will provide a similar flavor profile and consistency to the dish.
refrigerated beef ravioli - Substitute with cheese ravioli: Cheese ravioli can be a delicious alternative, adding a creamy and savory element to the dish.
extra light philly cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can add a creamy texture and tangy flavor to the dish while reducing the overall fat content.
mozzarella cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone cheese has a similar mild and creamy flavor to mozzarella, making it a suitable substitute in this recipe.

How to Beautifully Present This One-Pot Ravioli Dish

Elevate the ravioli: Carefully arrange the ravioli in a circular pattern on the plate, ensuring each piece is placed with precision and attention to detail.
Garnish with fresh parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the ravioli to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the dish.
Create a grilled cheese crouton tower: Stack the grilled cheese croutons in a vertical formation on the side of the plate, adding height and visual interest to the presentation.
Drizzle with a balsamic reduction: Create a decorative drizzle of balsamic reduction around the edge of the plate, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to the presentation.
Use a fine dining plate: Select a high-quality, elegant plate to showcase the ravioli, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the dish.
Incorporate microgreens: Place a small cluster of delicate microgreens on top of the ravioli, adding a refined and gourmet touch to the presentation.
Add a sprinkle of edible flowers: Introduce a few edible flowers strategically around the plate to bring a touch of beauty and sophistication to the dish.
Consider the negative space: Utilize the empty space on the plate to create a balanced and visually appealing composition, allowing the dish to stand out.
Use a sauce drizzle: Artfully drizzle a small amount of the creamy tomato beef sauce in a decorative pattern on the plate, adding a final touch of finesse to the presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Creamy Tomato Beef Ravioli

Large saucepan: A deep cooking vessel used for preparing soups, stews, and sauces.
Wooden spoon: A kitchen utensil used for stirring, mixing, and serving.
Nonstick pan: A frying pan with a nonstick coating, ideal for cooking grilled cheese sandwiches and other delicate foods.
Cooking oil spray: A convenient way to grease pans and cooking surfaces with minimal oil.
Food processor: A versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, and pureeing ingredients.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines for One-Pot Ravioli in a Creamy Tomato Beef Sauce

Allow the one-pot ravioli to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled ravioli to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
If you plan to freeze the ravioli, follow these steps for the best results:
- Divide the cooled ravioli into individual portions in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. This allows you to thaw only the amount you need later.
- If using freezer bags, remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Place the containers or bags in the freezer, ensuring they lie flat for even freezing.
Frozen one-pot ravioli will maintain its quality for up to 2-3 months. Beyond that, it will still be safe to eat but may experience changes in texture and flavor.
To reheat the frozen ravioli, you can either:
- Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat it in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
- For a quicker method, transfer the frozen ravioli directly to a saucepan and reheat over low heat, stirring frequently, until it's heated through and the sauce is smooth. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to thin out the sauce if it appears too thick.
When reheating, be sure to stir the ravioli gently to avoid breaking the pasta pieces.
If you've added the grilled cheese croutons before freezing, they may lose their crispness once thawed. For the best texture, you can prepare fresh grilled cheese croutons to top the reheated ravioli.

How to Reheat Leftover One-Pot Ravioli in a Creamy Tomato Beef Sauce

Reheat the leftover one-pot ravioli in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through and the sauce is bubbling. This method ensures that the ravioli and sauce are evenly heated and the flavors meld together beautifully.
For a quick and easy reheating option, transfer the leftover ravioli to a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. The damp paper towel helps prevent the sauce from splattering and keeps the ravioli moist.
If you prefer a crispy texture on your reheated ravioli, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and transfer the leftovers to an oven-safe dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown slightly and develop a delightful crust.
For a stovetop-to-oven method, reheat the ravioli in a saucepan over medium heat until the sauce is simmering. Then, transfer the pan to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and the sauce is bubbly. This method combines the even heating of the stovetop with the browning capabilities of the oven.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover ravioli for a crispy, delicious result. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C), place the ravioli in the basket, and cook for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.

Interesting Trivia About One-Pot Ravioli in a Creamy Tomato Beef Sauce

The ravioli in a creamy tomato beef sauce recipe is a delicious and convenient one-pot meal that combines the flavors of beef, tomato, and creamy cheese. This dish is a great way to enjoy a comforting and satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the addition of grilled cheese croutons adds a fun and tasty twist to the meal.

Budget-Friendly Benefits of Making One-Pot Ravioli at Home

The cost-effectiveness of this one-pot ravioli in a creamy tomato beef sauce recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of the ingredients in your area. The use of extra lean ground beef and refrigerated beef ravioli may increase the overall cost. However, the recipe yields a substantial amount, making it suitable for a family meal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people may range from $20 to $25. Considering the hearty nature of the dish and the potential for leftovers, the overall verdict for this recipe would be 8/10.

Is This Creamy Tomato Beef Ravioli Healthy or Unhealthy?

This one-pot ravioli recipe, while comforting and delicious, leans towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:

The use of extra lean ground beef, while lower in fat compared to regular ground beef, still contributes to the overall saturated fat content of the dish.
Condensed tomato soup and tomato paste often contain added sugars and sodium, which can be detrimental to health when consumed in excess.
The inclusion of cream and mozzarella cheese adds significant amounts of saturated fat and calories to the recipe.
Grilled cheese sandwiches, used as croutons, further increase the dish's saturated fat and calorie content.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Opt for lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef to reduce saturated fat content.
Use low-sodium tomato soup or crushed tomatoes to minimize added salt.
Replace the cream with a lower-fat alternative, such as evaporated skim milk or Greek yogurt, to maintain creaminess while cutting down on saturated fat and calories.
Reduce the amount of mozzarella cheese or choose a low-fat variety to decrease the overall fat content.
Instead of grilled cheese croutons, opt for whole-grain bread croutons seasoned with herbs and spices, which will provide additional fiber and nutrients while reducing the saturated fat content.
Increase the vegetable content by adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the sauce, boosting the dish's fiber, vitamin, and mineral content.

Editor's Opinion on This Creamy Tomato Beef Ravioli Recipe

This one-pot ravioli in a creamy tomato beef sauce recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of condensed tomato soup and extra lean ground beef creates a rich and savory base, while the addition of cream and mozzarella cheese adds a luxurious creaminess. The grilled cheese croutons provide a fun and unexpected twist, adding a crunchy and cheesy element to the dish. Overall, this recipe offers a comforting and satisfying meal that is sure to impress with its bold flavors and clever presentation.

Enhance Your One Pot Ravioli in a Creamy Tomato Beef Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: Create a delicious garlic bread by toasting thick slices of bread with a garlic and herb butter spread.

Caesar Salad: Whip up a classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, homemade croutons, and a creamy Caesar dressing.

Roasted Vegetables: Prepare a colorful medley of roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, seasoned with herbs and olive oil.

Fruit Salad: Mix together a refreshing fruit salad with a variety of fresh fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi, drizzled with a honey-lime dressing.

Similar One-Pot Pasta Recipes to Try

Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake: This delicious pasta bake is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, creamy alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, all baked to perfection.

Spicy Shrimp and Sausage Jambalaya: This flavorful jambalaya recipe is packed with spicy shrimp, savory sausage, and a mix of vegetables and spices, creating a hearty and delicious one-pot meal.

Mango Coconut Rice Pudding: Indulge in this creamy and tropical dessert that combines fragrant mango, creamy coconut milk, and perfectly cooked rice for a sweet and satisfying treat.

Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry: Whip up this quick and easy stir-fry that features tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a flavorful sauce, all served over steamed rice for a delicious and healthy meal.

Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken: Enjoy this juicy and flavorful roasted chicken dish that is seasoned with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, creating a mouthwatering and impressive main course.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for One-Pot Ravioli in a Creamy Tomato Beef Sauce

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, herbs, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside.

Caprese Skewers: Impress your guests with these elegant and refreshing skewers featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a burst of sweet and tangy flavor.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the creamy and luscious texture of a classic strawberry cheesecake, adorned with fresh strawberry slices and a drizzle of sweet strawberry sauce for a delightful and refreshing treat.

Why trust this One Pot Ravioli in a Creamy Tomato Beef Sauce Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of beef ravioli and a creamy tomato beef sauce, creating a rich and satisfying dish. The use of extra lean ground beef ensures a healthier option, while the addition of mozzarella cheese and extra light philly cream provides a luscious and indulgent touch. The incorporation of grilled cheese sandwiches as croutons adds a unique and flavorful twist, elevating the overall dining experience. With carefully selected ingredients and a straightforward cooking method, this recipe promises a delicious and comforting meal that can be trusted to impress and satisfy.

Have you tried this One Pot Ravioli in a Creamy Tomato Beef Sauce Recipe? Share your experience and any tweaks you made in the Recipe Sharing forum.

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of pasta if you prefer. You can try using tortellini, penne, or even spaghetti if you like.

Can I substitute the ground beef with another type of meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for a different flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the ravioli in creamy tomato beef sauce ahead of time and reheat it when you're ready to serve. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

Can I omit the red chili/pepper flakes if I don't like spicy food?

Of course! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can simply omit the red chili/pepper flakes or reduce the amount to suit your taste.

Can I use a different type of cheese for the sauce?

Certainly! You can use different types of cheese such as cheddar, parmesan, or a blend of Italian cheeses to customize the flavor of the sauce to your liking.