Homemade Meat Ravioli (Agnolotti)

Short description

Homemade Meat Ravioli, also known as Agnolotti, is a traditional Italian pasta dish featuring delicate, fresh pasta filled with a rich and savory meat mixture. Perfect for special occasions or a comforting homemade meal, these meat-filled pillows are a testament to classic Italian culinary artistry.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Homemade Meat Ravioli offers a deeply satisfying taste of authentic Italian cuisine. Making ravioli from scratch allows you to customize the filling to your liking and enjoy the unparalleled freshness of handmade pasta. Whether served with a simple butter sauce, marinara, or a hearty ragu, this dish provides a rich and memorable dining experience that is far superior to store-bought versions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Eggs
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Ground beef
• Ground pork
• Onion
• Garlic
• Parmesan cheese
• Nutmeg
• Black pepper
• Water (as needed)

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, create a mound of flour with a well in the center. Crack the eggs into the well, add olive oil and a pinch of salt, and slowly incorporate the flour until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. For the filling, sauté onions and garlic in a pan with olive oil until fragrant. Add the ground beef and ground pork, cooking until browned. Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
4. Once cooked, allow the meat mixture to cool slightly. Mix in grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Roll out the dough into thin sheets using a pasta machine or rolling pin.
6. Place small mounds of the meat filling along one sheet of pasta. Cover with another sheet and press around the filling to seal, ensuring no air pockets remain.
7. Cut into individual ravioli squares or traditional agnolotti shapes.
8. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ravioli for 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the top.
9. Serve hot with your preferred sauce.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4-6 servings.
Preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 4 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour and 10 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Variation: Add ricotta cheese to the meat filling for a creamier texture.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat filling with a mixture of spinach and ricotta.
• Different Meats: Use veal, chicken, or a mixture of meats for different flavor profiles.
• Herb-Infused Pasta: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley into the dough.
• Spicy Version: Add a touch of red pepper flakes to the filling for some heat.

Storage/Reheating

Store any uncooked ravioli in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be cooked directly from frozen, adding an extra minute to the cooking time.
Cooked ravioli should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in simmering water or reheat in a skillet with a little bit of butter or sauce until heated through.

FAQs

How thin should the pasta dough be for ravioli?

The pasta dough should be rolled out thin enough that you can almost see your hand through it, typically to the second-to-last setting on a pasta machine.

Can I use store-bought pasta sheets instead of making my own?

Yes, store-bought fresh pasta sheets can be used for convenience if you prefer not to make the dough from scratch.

What sauce pairs best with meat ravioli?

A simple butter and sage sauce, marinara, or a light cream sauce pairs beautifully with meat ravioli.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Why is my ravioli opening during cooking?

Make sure to seal the edges properly by pressing firmly around the filling and removing any air pockets.

Can I bake the ravioli instead of boiling?

Traditional ravioli is boiled, but you can bake them in a casserole dish with sauce for a different preparation method.

How long can homemade ravioli last in the freezer?

Homemade ravioli can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

What is the difference between ravioli and agnolotti?

Agnolotti is typically smaller and folded differently compared to ravioli, which is usually square and larger.

How do I prevent the ravioli from sticking together?

Dust the ravioli lightly with flour and arrange them in a single layer on a tray until ready to cook.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, though the texture may vary slightly.

Conclusion

Homemade Meat Ravioli (Agnolotti) offers an unmatched culinary experience, bringing authentic Italian flavors to your table. While it requires a bit of effort, the result is deeply rewarding and perfect for sharing with family and friends. With a few basic ingredients and some careful preparation, you can create a truly memorable homemade pasta dish that is both versatile and delicious.

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