One Oven Ravioli Soup – A Creamy Comfort Classic

Introduction

Imagine a warm, comforting bowl of creamy goodness that’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal effort but yields a dish so impressive, it’s perfect for both family dinners and special occasions. One Oven Ravioli Soup is a masterclass in simplicity and flavor, utilizing everyday ingredients to create a truly comforting classic. This recipe is all about ease, flavor, and creativity, making it accessible to everyone, from beginner cooks to seasoned chefs. With its rich, velvety broth, tender ravioli, and the perfect balance of spices, this soup is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The beauty of this recipe lies in its ability to balance a variety of flavors using ingredients that are easily found in most supermarkets. This accessibility ensures that anyone can make this dish, regardless of their location or cooking experience.
• Ease of preparation: One of the standout features of this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. With a straightforward approach to cooking, this soup can be ready in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the One Oven Ravioli Soup presents impressively. The combination of creamy soup and perfectly cooked ravioli, all achieved with minimal fuss, makes it a dish you’ll be proud to serve to others.

Ingredients

• 1 package of fresh or frozen ravioli (cheese or meat-filled, as preferred)
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, finely chopped
• 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 4 cups of chicken broth
• 1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
• Chopped fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, chop the onion, garlic, and carrot. These will form the base of your soup’s flavor.
2. Step 2: In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and carrot, and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Step 3: Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Step 4: Once the soup is simmering, add the ravioli to the pot. Make sure they are covered with the soup broth. If using frozen ravioli, there’s no need to thaw them first.
5. Step 5: Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the ravioli are cooked through and float to the surface.
6. Step 6: Remove the pot from the oven and stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Let the soup simmer on the stovetop over low heat for a few minutes, allowing the cream to heat through and the flavors to meld together.
7. Step 7: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve the soup hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprites of parsley or basil if desired.

Handy Tips

• For an extra creamy soup, you can add more heavy cream or use a combination of cream and grated Parmesan cheese.
• Consider using different types of ravioli fillings to change up the flavor of the soup. Cheese, meat, or vegetable fillings all work well.
• If you prefer a clearer broth, you can skim off any excess fat that rises to the surface after baking.

Heat Control

The ideal temperature for baking the soup is 375°F (190°C), and the timing is crucial for perfectly cooked ravioli. After 20-25 minutes, check the ravioli for doneness by ensuring they float to the surface of the broth. This sign, along with the soup’s heated through and the flavors well combined, indicates that the dish is ready to serve.

Crunch Factor

The texture of this soup is primarily creamy and soft, thanks to the ravioli and the heavy cream. However, you can add a crunch factor by serving the soup with some crusty bread on the side or adding a sprinkle of toasted nuts or crispy bacon bits.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use high-quality ingredients: The better the quality of your ingredients, especially the ravioli and the broth, the more flavorful your soup will be.
• Don’t overcook: Ravioli can quickly become mushy if overcooked. Keep an eye on them during the baking time to ensure they’re perfectly cooked.
• Customize to taste: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to the soup to give it a personal touch.

Storage Tips

• The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently over low heat, adding a bit more broth if the soup has thickened too much.
• For longer storage, the soup can be frozen. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. Frozen soup will keep for up to 3 months. Reheat thawed soup over low heat, whisking constantly to prevent separation.
• Use airtight, microwave-safe containers for easy reheating and to preserve the freshness of the soup.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This soup makes a wonderful gift, especially during the colder months. Consider packaging it in insulated containers or thermoses to keep it warm during transport. You can also include some crusty bread, grated cheese, or a side of salad for a more complete gift. Wrap the container in a cozy towel or a festive cloth, and don’t forget to include a recipe card with reheating instructions.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg, a few grinds of black pepper, or some red pepper flakes to give the soup an extra kick.
• Creative toppings: In addition to Parmesan cheese and parsley, consider topping the soup with toasted pine nuts, crispy prosciutto, or a dollop of sour cream.
• Ingredient swaps: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version, or swap the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative for a vegan option.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the soup becomes too thick, add a bit more broth. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few minutes to reduce the liquid.
• Ingredient replacements: Don’t have heavy cream? Use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter as a substitute.
• Over/undercooking signs: Ravioli that are undercooked will be hard in the center, while overcooked ravioli will be mushy. Adjust the baking time as needed to achieve perfectly cooked ravioli.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, the soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags.
• Is it gluten-free? Depending on the type of ravioli used, this soup can be gluten-free. Ensure that the ravioli and the broth are gluten-free for a gluten-free version.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, the recipe can be easily doubled or tripled to serve larger crowds. Just adjust the baking time slightly to ensure that all the ravioli are cooked through.

Conclusion

The One Oven Ravioli Soup is a true comfort classic, offering a perfect blend of ease, flavor, and creativity. With its rich, creamy broth and tender ravioli, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and spices to make the recipe your own, and don’t hesitate to share it with friends and family. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this soup is a must-try for anyone looking to warm their belly and their heart.