Homemade Four-Cheese Ravioli Recipe

 There's something magical about homemade pasta. The silky texture, the melt-in-your-mouth goodness, and the love that goes into crafting every bite bring a meal to life in a memorable way. Four-cheese ravioli is the ultimate comfort food, combining the creamy richness of cheese with delicate, hand-rolled pasta. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this recipe will make you feel like an Italian chef in your own home. Don't worry—making it from scratch is easier than you think!

Ingredients

For the Pasta Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2–3 tablespoons water (if needed)

For the Four-Cheese Filling:

• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup crumbled gorgonzola (or goat cheese if you prefer a milder flavor)
• 1 egg yolk
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce (Optional):

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Pasta Dough

1. Mix the dough: Place the flour in a large mixing bowl or on a clean surface. Make a well in the center and crack the eggs into it. Add the salt and olive oil. Using a fork, gently beat the eggs and gradually incorporate the surrounding flour until the mixture becomes shaggy.
2. Knead the dough: Use your hands to bring the dough together. Knead it for about 8–10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough feels dry, add water one tablespoon at a time until it reaches the right consistency.
3. Rest the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and set it aside to rest for at least 30 minutes. This lets the gluten relax, making the dough easier to roll out.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Filling

1. While the dough rests, combine all the cheese filling ingredients in a bowl (ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, gorgonzola, egg yolk, nutmeg, salt, and pepper).
2. Mix until smooth, then refrigerate the filling until ready to use. This helps it firm up and stay put when you assemble the ravioli.

Step 3: Roll Out the Pasta

1. Divide the dough into two portions. Keep one covered while you work with the other.
2. Roll and thin the dough using a rolling pin or pasta machine. Aim for a rectangle shape and a thinness that lets you slightly see your hand through the pasta. Be sure to flour your surface and rolling tool to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Assemble the Ravioli

1. Lay one sheet of pasta on the floured surface. Using a teaspoon or piping bag, place small dollops of the cheese filling about 2 inches apart in rows.
2. Lightly brush water around the filling to act as glue, then place the second sheet of pasta over the first, pressing gently around each mound to eliminate air.
3. Use a sharp knife, pizza cutter, or ravioli cutter to cut out shapes. Press the edges with a fork if needed to seal. Dust with flour to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Cook the Ravioli

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Add the ravioli in batches and cook for 3–4 minutes or until they float to the surface.
2. Use a slotted spoon to remove them carefully from the water.

Optional Step 6: Make the Sauce

1. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat and add minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Toss the cooked ravioli in the butter sauce, then sprinkle with Parmesan and garnish with fresh parsley.

Tips for Serving and Pairing

Four-cheese ravioli pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad and a crisp glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. If you prefer red wine, a light-bodied Pinot Noir complements the creaminess of the cheese filling. For a heartier meal, you can serve it with a tomato-based marinara sauce or even drizzle a touch of truffle oil for an indulgent twist.

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, freeze uncooked ravioli in a single layer on a sheet pan before transferring them to a zip-top bag. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply cook them straight from frozen.

This homemade four-cheese ravioli is bound to become a favorite at your table. Every bite is a celebration of simple ingredients and the joy of making something with your own hands. Bon appétit!