When the weather gets chilly, or you’re craving something hearty and satisfying, Creamy Italian Ravioli Soup is the perfect solution. It’s everything you love about comfort food in one pot: tender ravioli, savory Italian sausage, fresh spinach, and a creamy, flavorful broth that will warm you from the inside out.
Not only is this soup rich in flavor, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something special to share with loved ones, this one-pot wonder will become your go-to recipe. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make magic happen in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love Creamy Italian Ravioli Soup
This soup is more than just a meal—it’s an experience that combines all the best flavors and textures. Here’s why it deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation:
- Rich and Creamy: The heavy whipping cream makes the broth luxuriously smooth and velvety.
- Hearty and Satisfying: With ground Italian sausage, ravioli, and fresh spinach, this soup is filling enough to serve as a complete meal.
- Simple Ingredients: You don’t need a pantry full of exotic items to whip up this delicious soup—just basic ingredients and a little love.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup makes this recipe ideal for busy weeknights or when you don’t feel like doing the dishes.
- Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a hit with adults and kids alike, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Ingredients for Creamy Italian Ravioli Soup
For the Soup Base
Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
---|---|---|
Ground Italian sausage | 1 pound | Adds savory, spicy flavor to the soup |
Crushed tomatoes | 1 (28-ounce) can | Choose one with basil and herbs for extra flavor |
Chicken broth | 5 cups | Forms the soup’s savory, rich base |
Minced onion | 1 tablespoon | Enhances the flavor of the broth |
Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon | Adds aromatic depth |
Salt | 1 teaspoon | To season and enhance the flavors |
Red pepper flakes (optional) | 1 teaspoon | For a hint of heat |
For the Ravioli and Finishing Touches
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
| Dry ravioli | 2 cups (or 8.8-ounce box)| Choose your favorite filling |
| Fresh spinach leaves | 2 cups | Adds nutrients and vibrant color |
| Heavy whipping cream | ⅔ cup | For a creamy, velvety broth |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Sausage
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the ground Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles with a spoon or spatula.
- If there’s excess fat, drain it carefully before proceeding.
2. Add Broth and Tomatoes
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the crushed tomatoes to the pot.
- Stir well to combine the sausage, broth, and tomatoes.
3. Season the Soup
- Add the minced onion, garlic powder, salt, and red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat).
- Stir thoroughly and let the soup simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
4. Add Ravioli
- Gently add the dry ravioli to the pot.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and cook according to the package instructions (about 7–10 minutes), or until the ravioli is tender.
5. Incorporate Spinach and Cream
- Once the ravioli is cooked, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
- Add the fresh spinach leaves and stir until they wilt.
- Slowly pour in the heavy whipping cream, stirring as you go to create a creamy, luscious texture.
6. Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra spinach or grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy with crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping.
Why This Soup Stands Out
1. A One-Pot Wonder
You don’t need to dirty multiple pots or pans to create this masterpiece. With everything cooking together in one pot, the flavors meld beautifully while saving you time on cleanup.
2. Perfectly Balanced Flavors
The spicy, savory Italian sausage complements the creamy broth and the slightly sweet crushed tomatoes, creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor in every bite.
3. Ideal for Customization
Not a fan of spinach? Swap it out for kale or arugula. Want to switch up the ravioli? Try a cheese-filled or mushroom-stuffed variety. The options are endless!
4. Ready in Under an Hour
With minimal prep and a short cooking time, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet satisfying.
Tips for Making the Best Creamy Italian Ravioli Soup
- Use High-Quality Sausage: The Italian sausage is the star of the dish, so choose one with robust flavor—mild or spicy, depending on your preference.
- Don’t Overcook the Ravioli: Keep an eye on the ravioli as it cooks to avoid it becoming mushy.
- Fresh vs. Frozen Ravioli: Frozen ravioli works just as well—just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you don’t like heat, omit the red pepper flakes. If you want it spicier, add more or include some cayenne pepper.
- Make It Cheesier: Top each bowl with a sprinkle of Parmesan or Pecorino Romano for extra richness.
FAQs About Creamy Italian Ravioli Soup
1. Can I use frozen ravioli?
Yes, frozen ravioli works perfectly in this recipe. Simply add it directly to the soup and adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
You can prepare the soup base ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the ravioli fresh to prevent it from becoming too soft. Reheat the soup and add the ravioli just before serving.
3. How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, swap the Italian sausage for plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
4. What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs beautifully with garlic bread, crusty baguettes, or a simple green salad.
5. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze the soup without the ravioli, as pasta can become mushy when frozen and reheated. Add fresh ravioli when reheating.
6. Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers would make great additions to this soup.
Why This Recipe Will Become a Favorite
This Creamy Italian Ravioli Soup is everything you want in a comforting meal—it’s creamy, hearty, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, it’s a recipe that never disappoints. The combination of rich Italian sausage, tender ravioli, and fresh spinach in a creamy tomato broth is simply irresistible.
Final Thoughts: A Bowl of Comfort Awaits
Ready to enjoy a hearty, delicious meal that comes together in one pot? This Creamy Italian Ravioli Soup is your answer. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for any night of the week.
So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself to a bowl of creamy, cheesy perfection. Your taste buds (and your family) will thank you!
Print
Creamy Italian Ravioli Soup – A Hearty One-Pot Meal
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Italian Ravioli Soup is a one-pot comfort meal that combines savory Italian sausage, tender ravioli, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy tomato broth. Perfect for chilly nights or when you need a quick yet hearty dinner, this soup is a satisfying crowd-pleaser that comes together in under an hour.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage
- 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes with basil & herbs
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon minced onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups or one 8.8-ounce box dry ravioli
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 2/3 cup heavy whipping cream
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Add Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes, stirring well.
- Season the Soup: Add minced onion, garlic powder, salt, and red pepper flakes (if desired). Stir thoroughly and allow the soup to simmer for 5-7 minutes to develop the flavors.
- Add Ravioli: Carefully add the ravioli to the pot. Allow it to cook according to the package instructions or until tender (about 7-10 minutes), stirring occasionally.
- Incorporate Spinach and Cream: Once the ravioli is cooked, add the fresh spinach leaves, stirring until they wilt. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, then slowly add the heavy whipping cream, stirring to combine.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm, garnished with extra spinach or a sprinkle of parmesan if desired.
Notes
- If you want to make this soup vegetarian, replace the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Frozen ravioli can be used instead of dry; adjust the cooking time as needed.
- For a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Avoid freezing the soup with the ravioli, as the pasta may become mushy upon reheating. Instead, freeze the base without ravioli and add fresh pasta when serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian