Baked Ravioli Gratin with Blue Cheese and Walnuts

Baked ravioli gratin with blue cheese and walnuts is a comforting dish that combines the delicate texture of ravioli, the bold flavor of blue cheese, and the crunch of walnuts. Easy to make and incredibly delicious, this dish is perfect for a cozy and flavorful meal.

I love this recipe for its perfect balance of creamy, cheesy baked ravioli and the slight crunch of the walnuts.

It’s a simple yet refined recipe, great for impressing guests or simply treating yourself.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 2 packs of fresh ravioli (about 14 oz)
• 5 oz blue cheese (Roquefort, Gorgonzola, or Blue Cheese)
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chopped walnuts
• 1 garlic clove
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

How to Make Baked Ravioli Gratin with Blue Cheese and Walnuts

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel and finely chop the garlic clove.
3. Roughly chop the walnuts and set them aside.
4. Cut the blue cheese into small pieces.

Step 2: Make the Blue Cheese Sauce

1. In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over low heat and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
2. Pour in the heavy cream and add the blue cheese pieces.
3. Stir gently until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 3: Assemble the Gratin

1. Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
2. Layer half of the ravioli in the dish without separating them.
3. Pour some of the blue cheese sauce over the ravioli and sprinkle with some chopped walnuts.
4. Repeat with another layer of ravioli, then cover with the remaining sauce.
5. For an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle with grated Parmesan if desired.

Step 4: Bake the Gratin

1. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
2. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

Nutrition Per Serving

• Calories: About 450 kcal
• Carbs: 40g
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 25g

Health Benefits of Ingredients

• Ravioli: A great source of carbs for energy, and lighter than other pasta types.
• Blue Cheese: Rich in calcium and protein, adding a bold and savory taste.
• Walnuts: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, promoting heart health and adding crunch.
• Heavy Cream: Provides a creamy texture and adds a touch of indulgence.

Zoé’s Tips

• For extra flavor, add a few fresh sage leaves before baking.
• If you like a crunchy topping, mix some breadcrumbs with chopped walnuts and sprinkle them over the dish before baking.
• Want a lighter version? Swap out heavy cream for milk.
• Not a fan of strong blue cheese? Try a milder Gorgonzola instead.

Best Pairings for Ravioli Gratin with Blue Cheese and Walnuts

• Crisp Green Salad: A light salad with a simple vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
• Dry White Wine: A Chardonnay or Viognier enhances the blue cheese and walnut flavors.
• Toasted Country Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

Variations of Ravioli Gratin with Blue Cheese and Walnuts Recipe

• Vegetarian Twist: Replace blue cheese with a mix of goat cheese and cream cheese for a milder flavor.
• Veggie Boost: Add thinly sliced zucchini or baby spinach between the layers.
• Bolder Flavor: Swap walnuts for toasted hazelnuts and add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce.
• Quick Version: Use a blue cheese béchamel sauce instead of heavy cream for extra creaminess.

Baked ravioli gratin with blue cheese and walnuts is a dish that stands out for its rich flavor and creamy texture. Easy to prepare, this cheesy baked ravioli recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.

Whether you’re a blue cheese lover or just looking for a new pasta dish to try, this gratin is sure to win you over with its bold flavors and simplicity.

Enjoy!