Easy Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

When you’re craving something creamy, cozy, and indulgent, this Easy Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara delivers every time. Inspired by the beloved Italian-American chain, this dish brings restaurant-style richness to your dinner table with minimal fuss. It’s the kind of recipe that feels fancy but is secretly super simple.

Ravioli Carbonara is all about comfort—pillowy pasta, crispy bacon, velvety Parmesan sauce, and just enough garlic to make the whole kitchen smell like heaven. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a relaxing weekend treat, this is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara

This recipe takes everything you love about creamy carbonara and pairs it with ravioli for extra decadence. It’s fast, filling, and feels special without needing hours in the kitchen. Using store-bought cheese ravioli means less prep, but the flavor is still unforgettable. The crispy bacon adds a savory crunch, while the creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce ties it all together beautifully.

What Kind of Ravioli Should I Use?

Cheese ravioli is the best pick for this recipe because its mild flavor plays so well with the creamy sauce. If you want something heartier, meat-filled ravioli also works. Try to avoid ravioli with strong or sweet fillings like butternut squash—they can clash with the savory bacon and Parmesan. Fresh or frozen both work great; just be sure to cook them according to package instructions.

Ingredients for the Easy Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara

This recipe is quick to prepare because it relies on a handful of simple ingredients. Each one plays a role in building that signature creamy, cheesy, smoky flavor.

• Cheese Ravioli
• Bacon
• Garlic
• Heavy Cream
• Parmesan Cheese
• Salt and Black Pepper
• Egg Yolk
• Fresh Parsley (optional)

How To Make the Easy Olive Garden-Inspired Ravioli Carbonara

Step 1: Cook the Ravioli

Boil the ravioli according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about half a cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Crisp the Bacon

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped bacon and cook until it’s crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.

Step 3: Make the Sauce Base

Add minced garlic to the bacon fat and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until it melts into a smooth sauce.

Step 4: Temper the Egg Yolk

In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolk. Slowly add a few tablespoons of the hot sauce to the yolk while whisking continuously to prevent scrambling. Then stir the tempered yolk into the sauce for a richer, silkier finish.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked ravioli to the skillet and toss gently to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with the crispy bacon, extra Parmesan, freshly cracked pepper, and chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite.

Serving and Storing This Ravioli Carbonara

This ravioli carbonara is best served immediately while the sauce is creamy and warm. It serves about 4 people, making it perfect for a small family dinner or a cozy date night at home.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to loosen up the sauce—microwaving may cause the sauce to separate.

What to Serve With Ravioli Carbonara?

Garlic Bread

A crusty piece of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the leftover sauce.

Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and Parmesan make a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

Adds color and a bit of earthy flavor to your plate.

Caprese Skewers

Tomato, mozzarella, and basil bring lightness and brightness.

Sauteed Spinach

Quick to make and balances out the creamy indulgence.

Lemon Asparagus

Bright, zesty asparagus adds freshness to your meal.

Tomato Bruschetta

Served on toasted baguette slices, it adds a pop of acidity and texture.

Sparkling Water with Lemon

A light drink to cleanse the palate between creamy bites.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you’re in the mood for even more comforting pasta recipes, check these out:

• Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni
• Creamy Mushroom Ravioli
• Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta Recipe
• Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
• Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can whip it up next time you want an easy, elegant dinner.

Let me know in the comments how you made it your own! Did you try it with pancetta or maybe tossed in some peas? I’d love to hear your version of this creamy comfort dish.

Explore more homemade, wholesome recipes over on Luna Meals on Pinterest and find your next cozy dinner idea.

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?