why make this recipe
Million-Dollar Pasta is a dish that combines rich, creamy flavors with comforting cheese ravioli. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or even a special occasion. The sauce is silky and packed with flavors from the tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. This pasta dish is sure to impress anyone who tries it, making it well worth the effort.
how to make Million-Dollar Pasta
Ingredients:
- 1 lb scalloped cheese ravioli (cooked)
- 1 cup half and half
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 10 oz diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Dried basil
- Oregano
- Mustard powder
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- Red pepper flakes, to taste
Directions:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the minced garlic. Once fragrant, whisk in the flour until smooth to create a roux.
- Stir in the tomato paste and dried herbs, toasting them in the roux until they become dark and aromatic—this step adds depth to your sauce!
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and half-and-half, stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes velvety.
- Lower the heat and mix in the cream cheese until fully melted, followed by the diced tomatoes and green chilies until everything is blended beautifully.
- Gently toss your cooked ravioli into the sauce, sprinkling in the Parmesan. Make sure each piece is generously coated in that luxurious sauce!
- Serve this creamy creation on a stylish platter, garnishing it with a mound of fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red chili flakes for some extra heat.
- Enjoy immediately while it’s at its peak creaminess!
how to serve Million-Dollar Pasta
Serve Million-Dollar Pasta hot on a large platter or individual bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes for added flavor and presentation. This dish pairs well with a side of garlic bread and a crisp salad for a complete meal.
how to store Million-Dollar Pasta
If you have leftovers, store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3 days. When heating, add a splash of milk or cream to revive the creaminess of the sauce.
tips to make Million-Dollar Pasta
- Make sure to use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
- You can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking to make it spicier or milder.
- If you want a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
variation
You can add cooked chicken or shrimp to the dish for added protein. For a veggie twist, stir in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
FAQs
Can I use frozen ravioli?
Yes, frozen ravioli works perfectly! Just cook according to package instructions before adding to the sauce.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce ahead and store it in the fridge. Cook the ravioli fresh when you’re ready to serve.
What if I don’t have half and half?
You can make your own half and half by mixing equal parts of heavy cream and whole milk, or use heavy cream and adjust the consistency with a small amount of milk.
Million-Dollar Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Base
- 1 lb scalloped cheese ravioli (cooked) Use fresh or frozen ravioli cooked according to package instructions.
- 1 cup half and half Can substitute with homemade half and half (equal parts heavy cream and whole milk).
- 1/2 cup chicken broth Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- 4 oz cream cheese Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for easy melting.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan For added flavor, freshly grated is recommended.
- 10 oz diced tomatoes with green chilies Canned tomatoes are convenient for this recipe.
- 2 tbsp butter Unsalted butter is preferred.
- 2 tbsp flour All-purpose flour works well for the roux.
- 1 tbsp tomato paste Adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic is recommended for best flavor.
- Dried basil Use as needed for seasoning.
- Oregano Use as needed for seasoning.
- Mustard powder For a subtle flavor enhancement.
- Salt and pepper To taste.
- Fresh parsley, for garnish Chopped for garnishing.
- Red pepper flakes, to taste Adjust to desired spiciness.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the minced garlic. Once fragrant, whisk in the flour until smooth to create a roux.
- Stir in the tomato paste and dried herbs, toasting them in the roux until they become dark and aromatic.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and half-and-half, stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes velvety.
- Lower the heat and mix in the cream cheese until fully melted, followed by the diced tomatoes and green chilies.
- Gently toss your cooked ravioli into the sauce, sprinkling in the Parmesan until everything is well-coated.
Serving
- Serve the Million-Dollar Pasta hot on a stylish platter or in individual bowls.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
- This dish pairs well with garlic bread and a crisp salad.