Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara Recipe

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When I set out to recreate the beloved Ravioli Carbonara from Olive Garden, I knew I had a delicious challenge ahead of me. The creamy, rich sauce cloaked around tender ravioli, speckled with crispy bits of bacon, is nothing short of iconic. I wanted every forkful to evoke the same indulgent experience you’d get dining in the restaurant. The result? A recipe that’s not only restaurant-worthy but surprisingly simple to prepare right at home.

There’s something special about the combination of cheese-filled ravioli and that velvety, garlicky carbonara sauce. It brings warmth to the table and feels like comfort in every bite. My version of this dish includes a touch of nutmeg for depth, a mix of Parmesan and Pecorino for a sharper cheesy kick, and a final flourish of fresh parsley to brighten the richness.

If you’re a fan of Olive Garden or just looking to elevate your pasta night with something creamy and utterly satisfying, this copycat recipe will not disappoint. Pair it with a side of Marry Me Chicken Pasta or some Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts, and you’ve got a meal to impress even the pickiest eaters.

Why You’ll Love This Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara Recipe

This recipe brings the restaurant experience to your kitchen without the wait or price tag. It’s quick enough for weeknights yet indulgent enough for date night. You’ll love how the bacon adds a crispy, salty contrast to the luscious cream sauce, and how the cheese ravioli soak up every drop of flavor. Plus, the ingredients are easy to find and flexible enough to customize based on your taste or what you have on hand. It’s a true crowd-pleaser and a family favorite waiting to happen.

How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

Step 1: Cook the Ravioli
Start by boiling your favorite cheese ravioli according to the package instructions. Fresh or frozen both work, but make sure to cook them al dente. Drain and set aside, tossing them lightly in olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Crisp the Bacon
In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s golden and crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Keep about a tablespoon of the bacon fat in the pan for flavor.

Step 3: Build the Sauce
To the same skillet with the bacon fat, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream, a touch of milk, and a pinch of ground nutmeg. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.

Step 4: Add the Cheese
Stir in grated Parmesan and Pecorino Romano cheeses until melted and smooth. Taste and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked ravioli and half of the crispy bacon back into the sauce. Gently toss everything together to coat the ravioli evenly. Serve hot, topped with the remaining bacon, extra cheese, and a sprinkle of chopped parsley.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

For a vegetarian twist, skip the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for a savory depth. If you prefer meat-filled ravioli, that works just as well and adds extra heartiness. You can also use pancetta instead of bacon for a more traditional Italian flavor.

Want a bit of spice? A pinch of red pepper flakes goes a long way. And if you’re out of heavy cream, try using half-and-half or a blend of milk and a bit of cream cheese for a creamy consistency. For an added burst of freshness, a few peas or baby spinach stirred in at the end give it a lovely finish.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This ravioli carbonara is rich and indulgent, so I like to pair it with something crisp and refreshing to balance things out. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette works beautifully. If you’re serving this for a special dinner, a glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or a buttery Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce wonderfully.

For a heartier meal, serve it alongside crusty garlic bread or roasted asparagus. If you’re planning a full Italian-inspired dinner, consider starting with a light soup like minestrone or a bowl of Broccoli Salad for a touch of crunch and freshness.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The sauce will thicken as it chills, but you can bring it back to its creamy glory with a splash of milk or cream when reheating. Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently.

Avoid microwaving if you can, as it can cause the sauce to separate. If you must use the microwave, reheat in short bursts and stir in between to maintain the sauce’s texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How close is this recipe to Olive Garden’s version?

This copycat recipe captures the creamy, smoky, and cheesy essence of Olive Garden’s Ravioli Carbonara, with a homemade twist that makes it even more flavorful.

Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce instead of making it from scratch?

Yes, you can, but I highly recommend making the sauce from scratch for the best flavor. It’s simple and really elevates the dish.

What kind of ravioli should I use?

Cheese ravioli is classic, but meat-filled or spinach and ricotta versions are also delicious. Choose your favorite!

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the sauce and cook the bacon in advance, but cook the ravioli just before serving to keep them from getting mushy.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Not ideally. Cream-based sauces can break when frozen and reheated, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days stored in the fridge.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you fell in love with this ravioli carbonara, you’ll definitely want to check out some of my other comfort food favorites. My Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta is rich with Italian flavors and loaded with hearty sausage and sun-dried tomatoes. It’s a reader favorite for a reason and perfect for another pasta night.

Another one you shouldn’t miss is the Marry Me Chicken Pasta, which pairs tender chicken in a luscious creamy sauce with pasta. It’s romantic, easy to make, and unforgettable. For something a little more veggie-forward but still indulgent, the Giant Zucchini Parmesan makes a stunning side or main.

Each of these recipes brings something special to the table, and if you’re on a roll with restaurant-quality meals at home, these are must-tries.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t forget to save this Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara for later! Pin it to your favorite pasta or dinner board on Pinterest so it’s easy to find the next time a craving strikes. You can also share it with your friends and family on Facebook or send it in a quick message—especially to that one friend who’s always asking what they should cook for dinner. Sharing is caring, and this dish is just too good to keep to yourself!

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