Skillet Ravioli with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe
Introduction
This skillet ravioli with spinach is a quick and comforting dish that combines tender ravioli with garlicky sautéed spinach and a creamy mascarpone topping. Finished under the broiler with parmesan for a golden finish, it’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.

Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 large garlic cloves, chopped
- 5 ounces baby spinach (from a salad-ready container)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper or red pepper flakes, to taste
- 18 ounces refrigerated or frozen ravioli
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan
- 6 tablespoons mascarpone cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat the broiler with a rack positioned about 6 inches from the heat source, if adjustable. In a medium-large (about 10-inch) ovenproof skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped garlic and cook until just golden, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Step 2: Add the baby spinach and a few pinches of salt to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is wilted, about 3 to 4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer the garlic and spinach to a bowl using tongs or a spoon.
- Step 3: Place the cold ravioli in the same skillet along with 1/2 cup water and a few more pinches of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium. Cover with a lid and steam for 3 to 5 minutes, longer if using frozen ravioli, until heated through and tender.
- Step 4: Spoon the mascarpone in small dollops around the ravioli. Gently turn the ravioli one or two times without breaking them. Season with salt and pepper. Add the sautéed spinach back into the skillet and distribute evenly.
- Step 5: Sprinkle the grated parmesan evenly over the top. Place the skillet under the broiler and cook until the ravioli are browned in spots, 3 to 6 minutes depending on your broiler’s strength. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Step 6: Serve the ravioli immediately. If you have leftovers, leave them in the skillet and rewarm gently in the oven before serving again.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh ravioli for best texture, but frozen works well if steamed properly.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the spinach for a hint of heat.
- Swap mascarpone for ricotta if you prefer a lighter creaminess.
- Try adding cooked mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes along with the spinach for extra flavor.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the ravioli back in an ovenproof skillet and warm gently in the oven until heated through. Avoid microwaving to retain texture and prevent sogginess.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use dried ravioli for this recipe?
Dried ravioli are not recommended here because they require longer cooking times and more water. Refrigerated or frozen ravioli work best for this quick skillet method.
What if I don’t have mascarpone cheese?
You can substitute mascarpone with ricotta or cream cheese for a similar creamy effect. Mascarpone adds a subtle richness, but other soft cheeses will still make the dish delicious.
PrintSkillet Ravioli with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe
A delicious and comforting skillet ravioli with spinach recipe that is quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner. Tender ravioli are steamed and finished under the broiler with creamy mascarpone, garlicky spinach, and a generous sprinkle of parmesan for a cheesy, flavorful finish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop with Broiling
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Ravioli and Sauce
- 18 ounces refrigerated or frozen ravioli
- 1/2 cup water
- 6 tablespoons mascarpone cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Vegetables and Seasoning
- 5 ounces baby spinach (from a salad-ready container)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 large garlic cloves, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper or red pepper flakes, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the broiler: Preheat your broiler with a rack positioned about 6 inches from the heat source to ensure the ravioli will brown nicely under the heat.
- Cook garlic and spinach: In a medium-large (about 10 inches) ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Add the chopped garlic and sauté carefully until it is just golden, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Add the baby spinach along with a few pinches of salt, cooking until the spinach is wilted, approximately 3 to 4 minutes. Season as needed with salt and pepper or red pepper flakes. Transfer the garlic and spinach mixture to a bowl using tongs or a spoon.
- Cook the ravioli: Return the skillet to the stove, placing the cold ravioli in the pan along with 1/2 cup of water and a few more pinches of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium, cover with any suitable lid, and allow the ravioli to steam gently for 3 to 5 minutes—cook longer if the ravioli are frozen. Check to ensure they are heated through and tender.
- Add mascarpone and combine: Carefully spoon small dollops of mascarpone cheese around the ravioli in the skillet. Gently turn or stir once or twice to distribute the cheese, being cautious as the ravioli are delicate and can break easily. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
- Return spinach and add parmesan: Add the previously cooked spinach mixture back to the skillet, gently folding it in with the ravioli and mascarpone. Then, sprinkle the grated parmesan evenly over the top.
- Broil and serve: Place the skillet under the preheated broiler and cook until the ravioli are browned in spots and the cheese is golden, about 3 to 6 minutes depending on your broiler’s intensity. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor. Leftovers can be stored in the skillet and reheated in the oven.
Notes
- Use an ovenproof skillet to allow easy finishing under the broiler.
- If using frozen ravioli, extend steaming time to ensure they are fully cooked and tender.
- Handle ravioli gently when stirring after adding mascarpone to avoid breaking.
- The broiling step adds a wonderful golden crust and enhances flavor, so do not skip it.
- Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes according to your taste preference.
- Leftovers reheat well in the oven directly in the skillet, preserving the flavors.
Keywords: skillet ravioli, spinach ravioli, easy Italian dinner, mascarpone ravioli, broiled pasta, quick skillet meals

