Ravioli with Marinara from Fazoli's features tender pasta pockets filled with seasoned ricotta cheese, topped with a vibrant, tangy marinara sauce and a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan, delivering a comforting and flavorful Italian classic.
Equipments
- Large pot
- Colander
- Slotted spoon
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Cheese grater
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Serving plates
Ingredients
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 lb (450g) all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Ricotta cheese should be fresh and well-drained to avoid watery filling, which can make the ravioli soggy during cooking. Using high-quality grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese enhances the creamy texture and rich flavor of the filling. When mixing flour and eggs for the pasta dough, allow it to rest for at least 30 minutes to develop elasticity, ensuring tender ravioli pockets. Marinara sauce can be homemade or store-bought, but choose one with a balanced blend of tomatoes, herbs, and garlic to complement the cheese filling perfectly. Your copycat Fazoli's Ravioli with Marinara combines tender ricotta-filled pasta with a vibrant marinara sauce and fresh Parmesan, creating an authentic Italian dish that's comforting and flavorful.
Instructions
- Prepare pasta dough: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, eggs, olive oil, and salt. Knead until smooth. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
- Prepare filling: In another bowl, mix ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup Parmesan, mozzarella, 1 egg, 1/2 teaspoon salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning until well combined.
- Roll out pasta dough on a floured surface until thin.
- Place spoonfuls of filling on half of the dough, spaced evenly apart.
- Brush dough edges lightly with water. Fold over remaining dough to cover filling and press around each mound to seal.
- Cut ravioli using a knife or cutter. Press edges with a fork to seal well.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Gently add ravioli to boiling water and cook 3-4 minutes, or until they float.
- Remove ravioli with a slotted spoon and drain in a colander.
- Heat marinara sauce in a saucepan until warmed through.
- Plate ravioli and top with marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle with remaining Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves (if using). Serve warm.
Substitution
Ravioli with Marinara from Fazoli's copycat menu showcases delicate pasta parcels filled with a creamy ricotta blend, smothered in a rich marinara sauce and topped with Parmesan for an authentic Italian experience. If fresh ravioli dough is unavailable, pre-made store-bought ravioli is a convenient substitution that saves preparation time while maintaining flavor. When making the marinara sauce, you can enhance freshness by using canned crushed tomatoes or a high-quality jarred sauce if you don't have time to prepare it from scratch. Your filling can be customized by adding fresh spinach or sauteed mushrooms for additional texture and nutrition. Be sure to cook the ravioli in plenty of boiling salted water and gently remove them with a slotted spoon to prevent tearing.
Tips
Ensure dough rests covered to prevent drying, which helps elasticity and easier rolling. Seal ravioli edges firmly using water and a fork to avoid filling leakage during boiling. Cook ravioli in rapidly boiling salted water and only remove them once they float, indicating doneness. Your marinara sauce should be heated gently to preserve its vibrant flavor before plating.
Nutritions
Ravioli with Marinara from Fazoli's is a nutritious blend of protein and calcium, primarily from ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Each serving provides essential amino acids from eggs and dairy, supporting muscle repair and bone health. The marinara sauce adds antioxidants and vitamins A and C from tomatoes and herbs. By choosing this meal, you enjoy a balanced combination of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins that can sustain your energy throughout the day.
Storage
Store leftover ravioli with marinara in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. If you want to keep your ravioli longer, freeze it in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag, where it can last for up to 2 months. Reheat refrigerated ravioli gently in a saucepan with marinara sauce or microwave in short intervals to preserve texture and flavor.
Variation or Alternatives
You can enhance the filling by adding sauteed spinach or finely chopped mushrooms for extra texture and flavor. Swap out the all-purpose flour with a blend of semolina and all-purpose flour for a firmer, more authentic pasta texture. Instead of boiling, try pan-frying the cooked ravioli in butter until golden brown for a crispy exterior. Experiment with a spicy arrabbiata sauce as an alternative to marinara to give your dish a bold, zesty kick.
Allergies
Ravioli with Marinara from Fazoli's contains multiple common allergens including dairy from ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses, as well as eggs used in both the filling and pasta dough. Wheat flour in the pasta presents a gluten risk for individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. If you have allergies to dairy, eggs, or gluten, it's important to verify ingredients or consider alternative options before enjoying this dish.
Why this recipe?
Fazoli's Ravioli with Marinara stands out for its perfectly crispy, golden-fried ravioli filled with a rich, savory cheese blend that pairs seamlessly with their zesty marinara sauce. The combination delivers a satisfying balance of texture and flavor that appeals to fans of Italian comfort food. Making a copycat version of this dish allows you to recreate the authentic, crave-worthy taste of Fazoli's at home while customizing ingredients to suit your personal preferences. Your kitchen can become the go-to spot for this beloved appetizer, impressing family and friends with an iconic Fazoli's classic.