**Family-Friendly One-Pot Ravioli Soup Recipe: A Heartwarming Treat**
When it’s time to whip up a meal that pleases the whole family, both ease and taste are essential. One-pot dishes have become a beloved choice in numerous homes due to their practicality and easy cleanup. Among these, the one-pot ravioli soup shines as a warm, filling meal that gathers everyone around the table. This recipe is not only straightforward to prepare but also brimming with flavors that delight both children and adults alike.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound ground Italian sausage or ground beef
– 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 package (20 oz) refrigerated cheese ravioli
– 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
– Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Sauté the Aromatics:** In a large pot or Dutch oven, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes. Incorporate the minced garlic and continue to cook for another minute until aromatic.
2. **Brown the Meat:** Incorporate the ground Italian sausage or ground beef into the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. If necessary, drain any extra fat.
3. **Season the Soup:** Mix in the dried Italian herbs and red pepper flakes, if using. Add the can of diced tomatoes, juice included, and the chicken or vegetable broth. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil.
4. **Cook the Ravioli:** Once the soup is boiling, mix in the cheese ravioli. Lower the heat to a simmer and cook as per package directions, typically around 5-7 minutes, or until the ravioli are soft.
5. **Add the Greens:** Stir in the chopped spinach or kale and let it wilt into the soup for about 2-3 minutes. Taste and fine-tune the seasoning with salt and pepper as required.
6. **Serve and Garnish:** Ladle the soup into bowls, topping with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil or parsley for a fresh finish. Serve hot and relish the comforting flavors with your family.
**Tips for an Ideal Ravioli Soup:**
– **Customization:** Feel free to adapt the soup by incorporating other vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers for enhanced nutrition and color.
– **Cheese Options:** While cheese ravioli is traditional, you can experiment with various fillings such as spinach and ricotta or mushroom ravioli.
– **Make it Creamy:** For a richer version, blend in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half just before serving.
This family-friendly one-pot ravioli soup is ideal for hectic weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. Its deep flavors and cozy warmth make it a favorite for all ages, ensuring that everyone leaves the table content. Savor the simplicity and tastiness of this charming dish with your dear ones.