Chestnut and Pear Ravioli with Saged Brown-Butter

Name: Chestnut and Pear Ravioli with Saged Brown-Butter
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 3 large eggs; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup cooked chestnuts, pureed; 1 ripe pear, peeled and diced; 1/4 cup ricotta cheese; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 10 fresh sage leaves; Salt to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: World Cuisine Recipes

This Chestnut and Pear Ravioli with Saged Brown-Butter is a delightful dish that combines the earthy flavor of chestnuts with the sweetness of pears, all enveloped in tender pasta and finished with a rich, nutty brown butter sauce.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-11T20:57:05.108Z

This dish brings together the unique flavors of chestnuts and pears in a pasta that is perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty chestnut flavor balanced with sweet, ripe pears
Decadent brown butter sauce adds a nutty richness
Unique twist on traditional ravioli that impresses guests

      

The Perfect Pasta Experience

Making homemade ravioli is a rewarding culinary experience that showcases your skills and creativity. The tender pasta envelops a savory filling, creating a delightful bite that is both comforting and sophisticated. With the combination of chestnuts and pears, this ravioli offers a unique flavor profile that stands out from traditional options. The process of rolling and shaping each piece allows you to connect with the ingredients, making the meal not just about nourishment but also about the joy of cooking.

Using high-quality flour is essential for creating the perfect ravioli dough. All-purpose flour provides the right balance of structure and tenderness. Kneading the dough until it’s smooth ensures that your ravioli will have a satisfying bite without being too chewy. Allowing the dough to rest is equally important, as it relaxes the gluten, making it easier to roll out and shape. This attention to detail will elevate your dish and impress anyone lucky enough to share it with you.

Flavorful Filling Combinations

The filling for your ravioli is where the magic happens. Combining pureed chestnuts with diced pears creates a harmonious blend of earthy and sweet flavors. Chestnuts lend a hearty richness, while the pears add a fresh, juicy element. Ricotta cheese contributes creaminess, making every bite indulgent. This filling not only tastes incredible but also provides a beautiful contrast in texture, ensuring that your ravioli is as delightful to eat as it is to make.

Feel free to experiment with the filling ingredients! For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or even some crumbled gorgonzola for a tangy twist. The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it according to your preferences, making it a perfect choice for gatherings or special occasions. Each variation will bring its own unique flair to the dish, keeping your culinary creations exciting.

Mastering the Brown Butter Sauce

Brown butter sauce is a simple yet luxurious addition to your ravioli that enhances its flavor profile. The process of browning the butter involves cooking it until it reaches a golden hue, which brings out nutty flavors and adds depth to the dish. Sautéing fresh sage leaves in the butter infuses it with aromatic notes that pair beautifully with the chestnut and pear filling. This sauce is not only easy to prepare but also elevates your ravioli from a simple meal to a gourmet experience.

When serving your ravioli, drizzle the brown butter generously over the pasta, ensuring that each piece is coated in that rich, nutty goodness. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a savory finish that complements the flavors perfectly. This dish is ideal for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in, and with the ease of preparation, it becomes a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

For the Ravioli

2 cups all-purpose flour
3 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup cooked chestnuts, pureed
1 ripe pear, peeled and diced
1/4 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

1/2 cup unsalted butter
10 fresh sage leaves
Salt to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking.

Instructions

Make the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the eggs. Mix until the dough comes together, then knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, combine the chestnut puree, diced pear, ricotta, nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Roll and Shape the Ravioli

On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/16 inch thick. Cut into squares, place a teaspoon of filling in the center of each square, and fold over to form a triangle. Seal edges with a fork. Repeat until all dough is used.

Cook the Ravioli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook ravioli for about 4-5 minutes until they float. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Make the Brown Butter Sauce

In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add sage leaves and cook until the butter turns golden and nutty, about 5 minutes. Season with salt.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked ravioli to the skillet with the brown butter and gently toss to coat. Serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Enjoy your delicious homemade ravioli!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover ravioli, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain their texture, it's best to separate layers with parchment paper. When you're ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat the ravioli in a pot of simmering water for a few minutes or toss them in a skillet with a little extra brown butter until warmed through. This method ensures that they retain their delicious flavors without becoming mushy.

For longer storage, uncooked ravioli can be frozen. Lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer until they are frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen in boiling water, adding an extra minute to the cooking time. This makes it easy to have a gourmet meal ready at a moment’s notice!

Pairing Suggestions

When it comes to pairing wine with your Chestnut and Pear Ravioli, consider a light white wine such as a Pinot Grigio or a Sauvignon Blanc. These wines will complement the nutty flavors of the brown butter sauce without overpowering the delicate filling. If you prefer red wine, a light-bodied Pinot Noir can also work beautifully, providing a nice contrast to the dish’s sweetness.

For a complete meal experience, serve your ravioli alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The peppery notes of the arugula will balance the richness of the ravioli, creating a well-rounded dining experience that is sure to impress.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought ravioli?

Yes, you can use store-bought ravioli if you're short on time.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover ravioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the ravioli?

Yes, freeze the uncooked ravioli on a baking sheet and then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

→ What can I substitute for chestnuts?

You can substitute with roasted butternut squash or sweet potato for a different flavor.