If you have ever dreamed of recreating that rich, comforting Italian restaurant experience right in your own kitchen, look no further than this delightful Creamy Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara Recipe. This dish combines tender cheese-filled ravioli with succulent chicken and a dreamy, luscious sauce that’s bursting with garlic, Parmesan, and mozzarella. Every bite is like a warm hug, inviting you to slow down and savor the perfect harmony of creamy textures and bold, savory flavors. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a beloved go-to for cozy weeknight dinners and special occasions alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The charm of this Creamy Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role, whether it’s adding creaminess, a punch of flavor, or that gorgeous golden color that makes the dish irresistible. Let’s break down the essentials that come together to create this unforgettable meal.
- Olive oil: Helps to cook the chicken perfectly while adding a subtle fruity note.
- Chicken breast: Provides tender and flavorful protein that complements the creamy sauce.
- Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance and balance the overall flavor.
- Garlic cloves: Infuses the sauce with aromatic, savory depth.
- Heavy cream: The base of the luscious sauce that brings everything together with silky smoothness.
- Chicken broth: Lightens the sauce just enough and introduces a gentle savory undertone.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, sharp richness essential for authentic Italian flavor.
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create a creamy, gooey texture.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that lift the sauce with notes of oregano, basil, and thyme.
- Cheese ravioli: The star of the dish, bringing a delightful cheesy filling inside tender pasta pockets.
- Chopped parsley: Adds a fresh, bright touch and a pop of color for a fabulous finish.
How to Make Creamy Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While it warms up, season one pound of chicken breast with salt and black pepper. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook them for 7 to 8 minutes on each side until they are cooked through and no longer pink inside. This carefully cooked chicken will bring juicy, tender bites to your creamy Italian delight.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Base
Once your chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board. In the same skillet, add four cloves of minced garlic. Sauté them for one to two minutes until fragrant but not browned—this step releases essential aroma and flavor that will string through your sauce.
Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce
Pour one cup of heavy cream and half a cup of chicken broth into the skillet. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3 to 4 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly, creating that irresistible creamy base that clings to every ravioli wrapper.
Step 4: Add the Cheeses and Seasoning
Next, stir in half a cup each of grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Continue stirring until the cheeses melt into a smooth, velvety sauce. Sprinkle in a teaspoon of Italian seasoning, blending the herbs into the sauce to heighten the depth and bring an authentic taste that transports you straight to Italy.
Step 5: Cook the Ravioli
While the sauce simmers, cook your cheese ravioli according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves boiling them in salted water for 4 to 5 minutes until tender. Drain the ravioli carefully and set them aside, ready to soak up that wonderful sauce.
Step 6: Combine and Finish
Slice the rested chicken into bite-sized pieces. Add both the sliced chicken and cooked ravioli to the skillet with your creamy sauce. Gently toss everything to coat completely, then let it all cook together for another 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld perfectly. Turn off the heat and sprinkle two tablespoons of chopped parsley over the dish to add a fresh, vibrant touch right before serving.
How to Serve Creamy Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Creamy Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara Recipe even further, sprinkle extra grated Parmesan cheese on top for an added savory punch. A few flakes of crushed red pepper can also add a lovely subtle heat if you enjoy a little kick. Fresh parsley not only adds color but also brightens the richness, keeping the dish balanced and inviting.
Side Dishes
Pair this creamy ravioli carbonara with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette—it cuts through the richness beautifully and brings a refreshing crunch. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is also ideal for mopping up any lingering sauce, making every last bite count. Steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli provide a healthy, colorful contrast and round out the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation twist, serve the dish in individual shallow bowls and layer with fresh basil leaves on top. You can even drizzle a little truffle oil over the sauce for a luxurious, earthy aroma that guests will admire. A side of lemon wedges offers a zesty option for those who love a bright citrus touch alongside creamy dishes. No matter how you plate it, this Creamy Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara Recipe is guaranteed to impress visually and in taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish stays delicious for up to 3 days, retaining the creamy texture and flavor well. Be sure to cool it to room temperature before refrigerating to preserve its freshness.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, the creamy sauce may separate slightly upon thawing because of the dairy content. To freeze, place portions in airtight freezer-safe containers, and consume within 1 to 2 months for the best quality. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your Creamy Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara Recipe is on the stove over low heat. Stir frequently to prevent the sauce from breaking and add a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to restore silkiness. Microwave reheating works too but be sure to heat in short bursts, stirring in between to maintain even warmth and texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of ravioli for this recipe?
Absolutely! While cheese ravioli is traditional and delicious, you can experiment with spinach, mushroom, or meat-filled ravioli depending on your preference. Just adjust the cooking times if necessary and enjoy the flavor variations.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Creamy Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara Recipe?
Yes! You can skip the chicken and add hearty vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes to keep the dish satisfying and flavorful. The creamy cheese sauce remains the star that brings everything together.
How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, simply simmer it longer before adding the cheese to let more liquid evaporate. For a thinner sauce, add a bit more chicken broth or cream until you reach your desired consistency—just keep it balanced so it clings beautifully to the ravioli.
What is the best way to chop the chicken for this recipe?
After resting the cooked chicken, slice it against the grain into bite-sized pieces or strips. This technique ensures tender, easy-to-eat chunks that mingle perfectly with the ravioli and sauce.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for a dinner party?
Yes, you can prepare most of the components like cooking the chicken and making the sauce in advance. Store them separately, then combine and warm everything just before serving to keep the ravioli from becoming mushy and to enjoy that fresh, creamy finish.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something cozy, indulgent, and utterly delicious, don’t hesitate to dive into making this Creamy Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara Recipe. It’s one of those magical dishes where simple ingredients come together to create something spectacular. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe promises to deliver smiles and satisfying bites that will keep everyone asking for seconds. Happy cooking and buon appetito!
Print
Creamy Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 10m
- Cook Time: 0h 25m
- Total Time: 0h 35m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Creamy Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara is a deliciously rich and comforting pasta dish featuring tender chicken breast cooked to perfection and tossed with cheese-filled ravioli in a luscious creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Enhanced with Italian seasoning and fresh parsley, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal that’s easy to prepare in under 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese ravioli
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for cooking the chicken.
- Season chicken: Season one pound of chicken breast evenly with one teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon of black pepper for flavor.
- Cook chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 7-8 minutes on each side until fully cooked and no longer pink inside.
- Rest chicken: Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a cutting board to rest, allowing juices to redistribute.
- Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, add four cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant but not browned.
- Add liquids: Pour in one cup of heavy cream and half a cup of chicken broth, stirring to combine and create the sauce base.
- Simmer sauce: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add cheeses: Stir in half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese and half a cup of mozzarella cheese, mixing until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
- Season sauce: Add one teaspoon of Italian seasoning to the sauce and stir well to combine all flavors evenly.
- Cook ravioli: Meanwhile, cook the nine-ounce package of cheese ravioli according to the package instructions by boiling in salted water for 4-5 minutes until tender.
- Drain ravioli: Once the ravioli is cooked, drain well and set aside.
- Slice chicken: Slice the rested cooked chicken breast into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing and eating.
- Combine all: Add the cooked ravioli and sliced chicken back to the skillet with the creamy sauce.
- Toss together: Gently toss everything in the skillet to ensure the ravioli and chicken are fully coated with the creamy sauce.
- Cook combined dish: Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle two tablespoons of chopped parsley over the top. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with more Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- For best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer before adding the cheese.
- Chicken breasts can be substituted with chicken thighs for a juicier option.
- Make sure to not overcook the ravioli; follow package instructions carefully.
- Fresh parsley adds a nice burst of color and freshness but can be omitted if unavailable.
