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This copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara has become my family's favorite indulgence. The combination of tender ravioli creamy sauce and crispy bacon creates pure magic on a plate. It tastes just like the restaurant version but even better because you can customize it exactly how you like.
What Makes This Special
The sauce is everything here rich and creamy coating each piece of pasta perfectly. That bacon adds the perfect salty crunch and it's actually so easy to make at home.
Grab Your Ingredients
- Good Ravioli: Fresh or frozen both work great.
- Real Butter: Don't skimp here.
- Fresh Garlic: Adds so much flavor.
- Heavy Cream: Makes it silky smooth.
- Two Kinds of Cheese: Parmesan and mozzarella.
- Crispy Bacon: The perfect finishing touch.
Cook The Pasta
Always save some of that pasta water before draining. Trust me it's the secret to getting that sauce just right later.
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Make That Sauce
Start with butter and garlic then add your cream and cheeses. Keep stirring until it's smooth and velvety your kitchen will smell amazing.
Putting It Together
Gently toss those ravioli in the sauce. Add pasta water bit by bit until it's perfectly creamy not too thick not too thin.
Time To Serve
Top with that crispy bacon some fresh parsley and extra cheese. Serve it right away while everything's hot and perfect.
Keeping Leftovers
Store any extras in the fridge they'll keep for a few days. Just add a splash of cream when reheating to bring back that silky sauce.
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Mix It Up
Try different pasta shapes add some veggies or swap in shrimp. This recipe is really flexible so have fun with it.
Pro Tips
Always grate your cheese fresh pre-grated just doesn't melt the same. And watch that garlic carefully golden is perfect brown is bitter.
Perfect For Any Time
This dish works for busy weeknights or special occasions. It's that perfect balance of easy to make but feels really special.
Make Ahead Magic
The whole dish freezes beautifully. Just thaw overnight and reheat slowly with a bit of cream to bring it back to life.
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Common Mistakes
Never use pre-grated cheese it just doesn't work the same. And don't forget to save that pasta water it's like liquid gold for the sauce.
Vegetarian Version
Skip the bacon and add some sautéed mushrooms instead. The sauce is so good you won't even miss the meat.
Kid Friendly Favorite
My kids absolutely love this pasta. It's creamy and cheesy without being too fancy perfect for little ones.
Perfect Pairings
Serve with garlic bread and a simple salad. A glass of white wine makes it feel extra special.
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Fresh Is Best
Using fresh ingredients really makes a difference especially the herbs and cheese. It's worth the extra effort.
Save Some Money
Making this at home costs way less than eating out. Plus you can make extra and enjoy it all week long.
Restaurant Quality
It's so satisfying to recreate restaurant favorites at home. This version might even be better than the original.
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Pure Comfort
There's just something about creamy pasta that makes everything better. This recipe is like a warm hug on a plate.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use frozen ravioli?
- Yes, frozen ravioli works well. Just follow package cooking instructions before adding to the sauce.
- → Can I use real bacon instead of bacon bits?
- Yes, cook and crumble 4-5 slices of bacon for a fresh alternative to bacon bits.
- → How do I prevent the sauce from breaking?
- Keep heat medium-low when adding cheese and stir constantly. Remove from heat once sauce is smooth.