Ravioli with Squash and Pancetta

While homemade butternut squash ravioli may be a time-consuming endeavor, we’ve found a way to bring the flavors of this bistro classic to your weeknight dinner table without all the effort. By using store-bought cheese ravioli and tender bites of squash, we’ve created a delicious and convenient alternative. In this recipe, we start by sautéing pancetta to render its flavorful fat, which we then use to cook the squash. Butter and sugar enhance the natural sweetness and nuttiness of the squash, while thyme and nutmeg add depth to the sauce. A combination of chicken broth and water balances the flavors, creating a velvety sauce that envelops the ravioli and squash. Just before serving, we stir in crispy pancetta, grated Parmesan, and a spritz of lemon juice. For added texture and crunch, sprinkle each serving with chopped walnuts. Whether you use two 9-ounce packages or one 20-ounce package of fresh cheese ravioli, this recipe delivers a satisfying and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Adjust the sauce’s consistency with hot water, if needed. Get ready to enjoy the rich flavors and comforting textures of this butternut squash ravioli recipe.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 4 ounces pancetta, cut into ¼-inch pieces
• 2 pounds butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into ¾-inch pieces (6 cups)
• 1 shallot, minced
• 1 teaspoon minced fresh thyme
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1½ cups water
• 18-20 ounces of fresh cheese ravioli
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ¼ cup walnuts, toasted and chopped (optional)

PREPARATIONS:

1. In a Dutch oven, cook the butter and pancetta over medium heat until the pancetta is well browned and crisp, approximately 8 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the pancetta to a paper towel-lined plate.
2. Add the butternut squash to the fat left in the pan, spreading it into an even layer. Cook over medium-high heat without stirring until golden brown on one side, about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir the squash and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until it develops a spotty brown color, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced shallot, thyme, sugar, nutmeg, and ½ teaspoon of pepper. Cook until the shallot is softened, approximately 2 minutes. Stir in the chicken broth, water, and ravioli, bringing the mixture to a vigorous simmer. Cook, stirring often, until the squash and ravioli are tender, and the sauce has thickened, approximately 6 to 9 minutes.
4. Remove the Dutch oven from the heat and gently stir in the grated Parmesan, lemon juice, and crisp pancetta. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Before serving, sprinkle individual portions with extra Parmesan and walnuts, if desired.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Adjust the sauce’s consistency by adding hot water, 1 tablespoon at a time, if necessary.

TIPS:

• Look for fresh cheese ravioli for the best taste and texture.
• Toast the walnuts for a few minutes in a dry skillet over medium heat to enhance their flavor.
• Serve with additional grated Parmesan cheese for extra cheesiness.

With this recipe for butternut squash ravioli, you can enjoy the flavors of a bistro classic without the extensive preparation time. By combining store-bought cheese ravioli and tender butternut squash, you can create a delicious and convenient weeknight meal. The sautéed pancetta lends its flavor to the dish, while butter and sugar enhance the natural sweetness of the squash. Thyme and nutmeg add depth, and a combination of chicken broth and water creates a velvety sauce that envelops the ravioli and squash. The addition of grated Parmesan, lemon juice, and crispy pancetta brings the dish to life, while the optional walnuts provide a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this butternut squash ravioli recipe is sure to impress. Adjust the sauce’s consistency with hot water, if needed. Sprinkle each serving with extra Parmesan for an added touch of cheesiness. Enjoy the comforting flavors and textures of this dish, and savor the convenience of a delicious homemade meal.