In our home, weeknight dinners are often a dance between speed and deliciousness. Like many busy families, we crave meals that are both satisfying and relatively quick to prepare. This Creamy Asparagus Ravioli with Sausage and Peas recipe has become a true weeknight hero. The first time I made it, the vibrant green of the asparagus and peas, combined with the comforting creaminess of the sauce and the savory sausage, was an instant hit. Even my picky eaters, who sometimes eye vegetables with suspicion, devoured it with gusto. The combination of textures – the tender ravioli, the slightly crisp asparagus, the sweet burst of peas, and the hearty sausage – is simply delightful. It’s a dish that feels both elegant and comforting, perfect for a casual family dinner or even a slightly more special occasion. The best part? It comes together surprisingly quickly, making it a lifesaver on those evenings when time is short but the desire for a flavorful, home-cooked meal is strong. This recipe has definitely earned a permanent spot in our regular rotation, and I’m thrilled to share it with you. Prepare to be amazed at how easily you can create a restaurant-quality pasta dish in your own kitchen!

Ingredients

This recipe relies on fresh, high-quality ingredients to truly shine. While substitutions are possible, sticking to the list below will ensure you achieve the best possible flavor and texture. Investing in good quality ravioli and sausage will make a noticeable difference in the final dish.

Ravioli: 20 ounces fresh asparagus and ricotta ravioli (or other filled ravioli of your choice, such as cheese or spinach and ricotta)
- Detailed Explanation: Fresh ravioli is highly recommended for its delicate texture and superior flavor compared to dried varieties. Asparagus and ricotta ravioli is a natural complement to the other ingredients in this dish, enhancing the spring-like theme. However, if you can’t find asparagus ravioli, cheese or spinach and ricotta ravioli will also work beautifully. Look for refrigerated ravioli in the pasta section of your grocery store. If using frozen ravioli, be sure to thaw it according to package directions before cooking.
Sausage: 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, removed from casings)
- Detailed Explanation: Italian sausage provides a savory and slightly spicy element to the dish. You can choose between sweet or hot Italian sausage depending on your preference for heat. Removing the sausage from its casings allows it to crumble and brown evenly, distributing its flavor throughout the sauce. For a leaner option, you can use chicken or turkey Italian sausage. Vegetarian alternatives like plant-based Italian sausage can also be used, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.
Asparagus: 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- Detailed Explanation: Fresh asparagus is crucial for this recipe. Look for firm, bright green stalks with tightly closed tips. Snap off the woody ends of the asparagus by bending each stalk near the base until it naturally breaks. Cutting the asparagus into 1-inch pieces ensures it cooks quickly and evenly and is easy to eat with the ravioli. If you are using thicker asparagus spears, you may need to blanch them briefly before adding them to the pan to ensure they are tender-crisp.
Peas: 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- Detailed Explanation: Frozen peas are a convenient and readily available option that adds sweetness and a pop of color to the dish. Thawing them beforehand ensures they cook quickly and retain their vibrant green color. Fresh peas can also be used when in season, but frozen peas are a great year-round alternative. Avoid canned peas, as they tend to be mushy and lack the fresh flavor of frozen or fresh peas.
Heavy Cream: 1 cup heavy cream
- Detailed Explanation: Heavy cream is the key to the rich and creamy sauce. It provides a luxurious texture and a decadent flavor that coats the ravioli and vegetables beautifully. For a slightly lighter option, you can use half-and-half, but the sauce will be less thick and rich. Avoid using milk, as it will be too thin and may curdle when heated. For a dairy-free version, you can experiment with full-fat coconut cream, but be aware that it will impart a slight coconut flavor to the dish.
Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Detailed Explanation: Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty, and umami flavor to the sauce. Freshly grated Parmesan is recommended for the best flavor and melting quality. Pre-grated Parmesan may contain cellulose and not melt as smoothly. Use a good quality Parmesan Reggiano for the most authentic Italian flavor. Reserve extra Parmesan for serving, allowing guests to add more cheese to their liking.
Garlic: 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Detailed Explanation: Garlic provides a pungent and aromatic base flavor to the sauce. Freshly minced garlic is always preferred over pre-minced garlic in a jar, as it has a brighter and more intense flavor. Mince the garlic finely to ensure it cooks evenly and doesn’t burn. If you are sensitive to garlic, you can use one clove or adjust the amount to your taste.
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Detailed Explanation: Olive oil is used to sauté the sausage and vegetables, adding flavor and preventing sticking. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. Olive oil also contributes healthy fats to the dish. You can substitute with other cooking oils like avocado oil or canola oil if needed, but olive oil is the traditional choice for Italian cuisine.
Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Detailed Explanation: Fresh lemon juice adds brightness and acidity to the creamy sauce, balancing the richness and enhancing the other flavors. It also complements the asparagus and peas beautifully. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always preferred over bottled lemon juice for its brighter and more vibrant flavor. Adjust the amount of lemon juice to your taste, adding more if you prefer a tangier sauce.
Salt and Black Pepper: To taste
- Detailed Explanation: Salt and black pepper are essential seasonings that enhance the flavors of all the other ingredients. Season generously with salt and pepper throughout the cooking process, tasting and adjusting as needed. Freshly ground black pepper is recommended for its bolder flavor compared to pre-ground pepper. Start with a smaller amount and add more to taste, as you can always add more seasoning but you can’t take it away.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional): ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
- Detailed Explanation: Red pepper flakes add a touch of heat to the dish, complementing the savory sausage and creamy sauce. This is optional, but recommended if you enjoy a subtle spicy kick. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preference. If you prefer a milder dish, omit them altogether.

Instructions

This recipe is designed to be straightforward and easy to follow, even for beginner cooks. Each step is broken down to ensure clarity and success. Read through the instructions before you begin to familiarize yourself with the process.

Cook the Ravioli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ravioli and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the ravioli. Drain the ravioli and set aside.
- Detailed Explanation: Cooking the ravioli in salted water ensures it is seasoned from the inside out. Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the ravioli to prevent sticking. Cook the ravioli according to the package directions, as cooking times may vary depending on the brand and type of ravioli. “Al dente” means “to the tooth” in Italian, and refers to pasta that is cooked until it is firm to the bite, but not mushy. Reserving pasta water is crucial as it is starchy and will help to emulsify and thicken the sauce, creating a silky smooth consistency. Set the cooked and drained ravioli aside while you prepare the sauce.
Brown the Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease.
- Detailed Explanation: Use a large skillet or Dutch oven to ensure there is enough space for the sausage to brown properly and for all the ingredients to combine later. Heat the olive oil until it shimmers, indicating it is hot enough to cook the sausage. Add the sausage and use a spoon or spatula to break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. Cook the sausage until it is no longer pink and is browned on all sides. Browning the sausage develops its flavor and adds depth to the dish. Drain off any excess grease to prevent the dish from becoming oily.
Sauté Garlic and Asparagus: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Add the asparagus pieces and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until tender-crisp and bright green.
- Detailed Explanation: After browning the sausage, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook the garlic for a short time, about 30 seconds, until it becomes fragrant. Garlic can burn quickly, so watch it closely and reduce the heat if necessary. Adding the garlic after the sausage allows its flavor to bloom without burning. Next, add the asparagus pieces to the skillet. Sauté the asparagus for 3-5 minutes, or until it is tender-crisp. You want the asparagus to retain some bite and not become mushy. Cooking it until it is bright green indicates it is cooked but still fresh and vibrant.
Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to slightly thicken. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Detailed Explanation: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the sausage, garlic, and asparagus. Bring the cream to a simmer over medium-low heat. Simmering the cream helps it to thicken slightly and allows the flavors to meld together. Reduce the heat to low and continue to simmer for 2-3 minutes. Then, add the grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using) to the sauce. Stir constantly until the Parmesan cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. The Parmesan cheese will further thicken the sauce and add richness and flavor.
Add Peas and Ravioli: Stir in the thawed peas and cooked ravioli to the sauce. Gently toss to coat everything evenly with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta cooking water to reach your desired consistency.
- Detailed Explanation: Add the thawed peas and cooked ravioli to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Gently toss everything together to ensure the ravioli and peas are evenly coated with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta cooking water at a time, stirring until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. The pasta water will help to thin the sauce while also adding starch, which will help it cling to the ravioli.
Season and Serve: Stir in the lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Detailed Explanation: Finish the dish by stirring in the fresh lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Taste the dish and adjust the seasonings as needed. The lemon juice adds brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the cream sauce. Serve the Creamy Asparagus Ravioli with Sausage and Peas immediately while it is hot and creamy. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese for serving, allowing guests to add more cheese to their individual portions if desired.

Nutrition Facts

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

Servings: 6

Approximate Calories per Serving: 650-750 calories

Detailed Explanation: This recipe is estimated to serve approximately 6 people. The calorie count per serving is an approximation and can vary depending on factors such as the type of sausage used (leaner sausage will have fewer calories), the amount of heavy cream, and the portion size. This calorie range is typical for a creamy pasta dish with sausage and cheese. For a more precise calorie count, you can use online nutritional calculators and input the exact ingredients and quantities you use. Keep in mind that this dish is rich and flavorful, and a moderate portion size is often satisfying. If you are concerned about calorie intake, you can make adjustments such as using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, using leaner sausage, or increasing the amount of vegetables and slightly reducing the portion of ravioli.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Detailed Explanation: The preparation time includes washing and trimming the asparagus, mincing the garlic, removing the sausage from its casings, and thawing the peas. These steps are relatively quick and efficient, making this recipe suitable for weeknight cooking. Having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking will streamline the process and ensure everything comes together smoothly.
Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Detailed Explanation: The cook time includes cooking the ravioli, browning the sausage, sautéing the garlic and asparagus, and making the cream sauce. The cooking process is also relatively fast, with the sauce coming together quickly and the ravioli cooking in just a few minutes. The total cooking time from start to finish is approximately 20 minutes, making this a quick and satisfying meal option.
Total Time: 35 minutes
- Detailed Explanation: The total time from start to finish, including both prep time and cook time, is approximately 35 minutes. This makes Creamy Asparagus Ravioli with Sausage and Peas a great choice for a weeknight dinner when you want a delicious and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The quick preparation and cooking times make it a convenient option for busy schedules.

How to Serve

This Creamy Asparagus Ravioli with Sausage and Peas is a complete meal on its own, but you can enhance the dining experience with some thoughtful serving suggestions.

Classic Pasta Bowls: Serve in warmed pasta bowls. This keeps the ravioli warm and allows for easy eating.
- Detailed Explanation: Using warmed pasta bowls helps to keep the dish warm for longer, ensuring your guests enjoy it at the optimal temperature. Pasta bowls are designed with a wide, shallow shape that is perfect for serving pasta dishes, making it easy to twirl the ravioli and scoop up the sauce.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
- Detailed Explanation: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add a bright, herbaceous note to the dish and visually enhance its presentation. Chop the herbs finely and sprinkle them over the ravioli just before serving. The aroma of fresh herbs also adds to the overall dining experience.
Side Salad: Pair with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. This adds freshness and balances the richness of the pasta.
- Detailed Explanation: A simple green salad provides a refreshing counterpoint to the creamy pasta dish. The light vinaigrette adds acidity that cuts through the richness and cleanses the palate. A side salad adds fiber and nutrients to the meal, making it a more balanced and complete dining experience.
Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread for soaking up the delicious cream sauce.
- Detailed Explanation: Crusty bread, such as baguette or ciabatta, is perfect for soaking up the flavorful cream sauce. The bread adds a textural contrast to the soft ravioli and allows you to enjoy every last bit of the delicious sauce. Warm the bread slightly before serving for an extra touch of comfort.
Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce and asparagus.
- Detailed Explanation: A crisp white wine pairs beautifully with Creamy Asparagus Ravioli with Sausage and Peas. Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc are both excellent choices, as their acidity and citrusy notes complement the creamy sauce and the fresh flavors of asparagus and peas. The wine enhances the overall dining experience and elevates the meal.

Additional Tips for Success

To ensure your Creamy Asparagus Ravioli with Sausage and Peas is a culinary triumph, consider these helpful tips:

Don’t Overcook the Ravioli: Follow package directions carefully and cook the ravioli until al dente. Overcooked ravioli can become mushy and lose its delicate texture. Taste a ravioli a minute or two before the recommended cooking time to check for doneness.
- Detailed Explanation: Overcooking ravioli is a common mistake that can significantly impact the texture of the dish. Always follow the package directions as cooking times can vary depending on the brand and type of ravioli. Start checking for doneness a minute or two before the recommended time and taste a ravioli to ensure it is cooked al dente – firm to the bite but not hard or mushy. Removing the ravioli from the boiling water as soon as it is cooked prevents it from continuing to cook and becoming overdone.
Sauté Asparagus to Tender-Crisp Perfection: Avoid overcooking the asparagus. You want it to be tender-crisp and retain its vibrant green color. Sautéing it for 3-5 minutes is usually sufficient. If using thicker asparagus spears, you may need to blanch them briefly before sautéing.
- Detailed Explanation: Overcooked asparagus can become mushy and lose its appealing texture and color. Sauté the asparagus until it is tender-crisp, meaning it is cooked through but still has a slight bite. The bright green color is also an indicator of perfectly cooked asparagus. If you are using thicker asparagus spears, you can blanch them briefly in boiling water for 1-2 minutes before sautéing to ensure they cook evenly and are tender-crisp. Blanching also helps to retain their vibrant green color.
Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts more smoothly into the sauce and has a superior flavor compared to pre-grated Parmesan. Consider grating your own Parmesan right before adding it to the sauce for the best results.
- Detailed Explanation: Pre-grated Parmesan cheese often contains cellulose to prevent clumping, which can affect its melting quality and flavor. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts more smoothly into the sauce, creating a creamier and more luxurious texture. It also has a richer and more nuanced flavor. Using a microplane or a fine grater to grate Parmesan just before adding it to the sauce will elevate the dish and enhance its overall flavor.
Adjust Sauce Consistency with Pasta Water: If the sauce becomes too thick, use the reserved pasta cooking water to thin it out to your desired consistency. Pasta water is starchy and will help emulsify the sauce and make it cling beautifully to the ravioli.
- Detailed Explanation: Pasta cooking water is a valuable ingredient that should not be discarded. It is rich in starch from the pasta and can be used to adjust the consistency of sauces, making them smoother and more cohesive. If the cream sauce becomes too thick while simmering, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water at a time, stirring until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. The starch in the pasta water will also help the sauce to cling better to the ravioli, ensuring every bite is flavorful and well-coated.
Customize with Variations: Feel free to customize this recipe to your liking. Add other vegetables like mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes. Use different types of sausage or ravioli. Experiment with herbs and spices to create your own unique version of this delicious dish.
- Detailed Explanation: This recipe is a great starting point, but you can easily adapt it to your personal preferences and dietary needs. Consider adding other vegetables such as sautéed mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and texture. You can also experiment with different types of sausage, such as chicken sausage or chorizo, or use different fillings for the ravioli, such as mushroom ravioli or lobster ravioli. Adding different herbs and spices, like oregano, thyme, or a pinch of nutmeg, can also create unique flavor profiles. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions you might have about making Creamy Asparagus Ravioli with Sausage and Peas:

Q1: Can I use dried ravioli instead of fresh?

A: While fresh ravioli is highly recommended for its texture and flavor, you can use dried ravioli if necessary. Cook dried ravioli according to package directions, keeping in mind that it may take longer to cook than fresh ravioli. The texture will be slightly different, but the dish will still be delicious.

Q2: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

A: Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian. Simply omit the sausage and use a vegetarian Italian sausage substitute or add extra vegetables like mushrooms or roasted red peppers to compensate for the savory flavor. Ensure your ravioli is also vegetarian-friendly (e.g., cheese or spinach and ricotta filled).

Q3: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

A: Making this recipe completely dairy-free is challenging due to the creamy sauce and Parmesan cheese. However, you can try using full-fat coconut cream as a substitute for heavy cream, though it may impart a slight coconut flavor. Nutritional yeast can be used as a vegan alternative to Parmesan cheese to add a cheesy, umami flavor. Experiment with these substitutions to see if they meet your dietary needs and taste preferences.

Q4: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

A: While Creamy Asparagus Ravioli with Sausage and Peas is best served immediately, you can prepare some components ahead of time. You can cook the sausage and prepare the sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Cook the ravioli fresh just before serving and then combine everything together. Reheating the entire dish may cause the sauce to become less creamy and the ravioli to become slightly softer.

Q5: What other vegetables can I add to this recipe?

A: This recipe is very versatile and you can add a variety of other vegetables. Good additions include sautéed mushrooms, roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or artichoke hearts. Consider adding vegetables that complement the spring flavors of asparagus and peas and adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked to your liking.