As the aroma of creamy ricotta and sweet pear fills the kitchen, I can’t help but feel the chill of October in the air. These Ghost Purse Ravioli offer a delightful twist for any Halloween gathering, transforming an ordinary dinner into a whimsical experience. Each perfect little pocket is not only a feast for the eyes, with their charming ghostly shapes, but they also deliver a satisfying bite that balances creamy texture and subtle sweetness.
When I first crafted this recipe, I was searching for a way to break away from the mundane weeknight meals that had started to blend together. In just a few simple steps, this vegetarian delight can be whipped up in no time, making it ideal for busy schedules during the festive season. Trust me, your family and friends will be equally enchanted by the rich flavors wrapped in each ravioli, and you’ll enjoy the magic of homemade pasta without breaking a sweat. Let’s dive into making these hauntingly delicious Ghost Purse Ravioli!
Why will you adore Ghost Purse Ravioli?
Simplicity reigns supreme: Whipping up these adorable ravioli is a breeze, requiring minimal culinary skills and just a few ingredients.
Irresistible filling: The blend of creamy ricotta and sweet pear offers a unique twist that celebrates the flavors of Halloween.
Festive and fun: Perfect for gatherings, they add a playful touch to your holiday table, delighting both kids and adults alike.
Versatile delight: Feel free to switch out the filling with seasonal ingredients like pumpkin for a different flavor experience!
Time-saving option: Utilizing wonton wrappers means less prep time, so you can spend more time enjoying the festivities.
Eye-catching presentation: Shaped like little ghosts, these ravioli are as delightful to look at as they are to eat, making them a conversation starter at any meal.
Ghost Purse Ravioli Ingredients
For the Filling
• Whole-Milk Ricotta – Provides creaminess and richness; substitute with part-skim ricotta for a lighter option.
• Grated Parmesan – Adds savory depth and enhances flavor; can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
• Finely Chopped Pear – Adds sweetness and a unique twist; use ripe pears for the best flavor.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances all flavors; adjust based on personal preference.
• Pinch of Nutmeg – Introduces warmth and enhances sweetness; freshly grated nutmeg is recommended for a stronger flavor.
• Large Egg – Binds the filling and adds richness; a flax egg can be used for a vegan option.
For the Ravioli
• 12-oz. Package Wonton Wrappers – Simplifies the pasta-making process; ensure they are fresh or substitute with homemade pasta if desired.
For the Sauce
• Heavy Cream – Used for making the sauce creamy; substitute half-and-half for a lighter option.
• Additional Grated Parmesan – For serving—adds a flavorful finish.
For Garnish
• Chopped Fresh Parsley – Optional garnish for freshness and color.
Each of these ingredients plays a crucial role in crafting your delightful Ghost Purse Ravioli, infusing them with flavors that are sure to enchant your taste buds during the Halloween season.
How to Make Ghost Purse Ravioli
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Prepare Filling: In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of whole-milk ricotta, ½ cup of grated Parmesan, ½ cup of finely chopped ripe pear, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, a pinch of nutmeg, and one large egg. Mix until smooth and creamy.
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Assemble Ravioli: Take a wonton wrapper and place about 1 tablespoon of the creamy filling in the center. Wet the edges with water, fold it over to form a triangle, and press firmly to seal, ensuring no air is trapped inside.
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Cook Ravioli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully drop in the ravioli in batches and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until they float. Gently drain with a slotted spoon.
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Make Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, warm 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir in an additional ½ cup of grated Parmesan and a pinch of salt, stirring until the sauce is melted and creamy.
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Serve: Plate the ravioli, generously drizzle with the creamy sauce, and garnish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese before serving for a cheesy bonus!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Ghost Purse Ravioli
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Seal Tightly: Ensure that the edges of the wonton wrappers are well-sealed to prevent any of the filling from leaking out during cooking.
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Don’t Overcook: Watch the ravioli carefully; they should only take about 3-4 minutes to float and become perfect. Cook them longer, and they may become mushy.
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Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh ingredients, especially when it comes to your pears! Ripe pears enhance sweetness, while fresh ricotta contributes ideal creaminess.
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Batch Cooking: Cook the ravioli in batches to avoid overcrowding in the pot. This ensures they cook evenly without clumping together.
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Make Ahead: If you’re preparing for a gathering, consider assembling the ravioli a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to cook!
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Experiment with Sauce: For a twist, try adding a touch of sage or thyme to the creamy sauce for extra flavor, complementing your Ghost Purse Ravioli beautifully.
Make Ahead Options
These Ghost Purse Ravioli are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the creamy filling up to 24 hours in advance—just mix the ricotta, Parmesan, chopped pear, salt, nutmeg, and egg, then store it tightly covered in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can assemble the ravioli and place them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet before freezing for up to 2 weeks. When you’re ready to enjoy them, cook the ravioli directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the boiling time. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade ravioli at your fingertips, ready to impress your guests and make your Halloween festivities effortless!
How to Store and Freeze Ghost Purse Ravioli
Fridge: Keep cooked Ghost Purse Ravioli in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream to retain moisture.
Freezer: Uncooked ravioli can be frozen on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 1-2 hours until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 weeks. Cook directly from frozen—just add an extra minute to the cooking time.
Reheating: For leftover cooked ravioli, warm in a skillet with a bit of sauce, or steamed for about 5-7 minutes until heated through while keeping their delicate texture.
Assembly Tips: If preparing ahead, remember that sealing the ravioli tightly not only helps with cooking but also makes storage easier, reducing the risk of filling leaking.
Ghost Purse Ravioli Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor these ravioli to your family’s tastes with these delightful twists!
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Pumpkin Swap: Replace the pear with puree pumpkin for a festive fall flavor that perfectly suits Halloween.
Pumpkin brings a rich and savory profile, making your dish even more seasonal and special. -
Goat Cheese Upgrade: Mix in creamy goat cheese instead of ricotta for a tangy depth that beautifully complements the sweetness of the pear.
The tanginess will elevate the flavor while keeping the texture creamy and indulgent. -
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a gentle heat that surprises with every bite.
This little addition can transform your pasta into a surprisingly zesty dish, adding excitement for the adventurous eaters. -
Nutty Touch: Sprinkle in some finely chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for added crunch and richness.
The nuts not only enhance texture but also contribute healthy fats and depth of flavor. -
Herb Infusion: Incorporate finely chopped fresh herbs like sage or thyme into the filling for an aromatic touch.
These herbs will provide a fragrant note that brightens the creamy blend, making it even more enchanting. -
Cheesy Variety: Combine a blend of ricotta and mascarpone for an even richer and creamier filling.
The mascarpone will crank up the luxurious texture, making each ravioli feel like a bite of heaven. -
Sweet Addition: Add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the filling for a delightful, sweet contrast to the savory ingredients.
This addition will bring a wonderful balance, making every bite a delightful surprise, especially for dessert lovers.
What to Serve with Ghost Purse Ravioli?
Elevate your Halloween meal by pairing these whimsical ravioli with delightful sides and drinks that enhance their unique flavors.
- Crispy Sage Browned Butter: A nutty sauce drizzled over the ravioli adds richness and a deep flavor that perfectly complements the creamy filling.
- Garlic Roasted Broccoli: The slight bitterness and crunch of broccoli help balance the sweetness of the pear filling, adding a vibrant touch to your plate.
- Simple Arugula Salad: The peppery greens tossed with a lemon vinaigrette provide a fresh contrast that’s both refreshing and light, cleansing the palate between bites.
- Pumpkin Soup: For a festive fall touch, serve a warm bowl of pumpkin soup on the side, enhancing the autumn flavors while keeping the meal cozy and inviting.
- Homemade Garlic Bread: This classic favorite adds a comforting, cheesy element that everyone loves, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce with each bite.
- Apple Cider Spritzers: Refreshing and light, this drink adds a touch of seasonal flavor, enhancing the meal’s festive spirit with fizzy delight.
- Chocolate Pumpkin Tart: End the meal with a rich and decadent dessert that combines chocolate and pumpkin, rounding out your Halloween-themed dinner beautifully.
- Italian Red Wine: A glass of Chianti or a light Merlot pairs wonderfully with the creamy flavors of the ravioli, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Ghost Purse Ravioli Recipe FAQs
What kind of pears should I use for the filling?
I recommend using ripe pears for the best flavor; they should be slightly soft to the touch and fragrant. Avoid any that have dark spots or are overly firm, as they’re less likely to be sweet or juicy. Anjou or Bartlett pears work beautifully in this recipe.
How should I store leftover Ghost Purse Ravioli?
Keep cooked Ghost Purse Ravioli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream to retain their moisture and prevent them from drying out.
Can I freeze uncooked Ghost Purse Ravioli?
Absolutely! Lay the uncooked ravioli in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they aren’t touching. Freeze them for 1-2 hours until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 weeks. You can cook them directly from frozen; just add an extra minute to the boiling time.
What can I do if the ravioli are leaking filling while cooking?
Ensure that the edges are tightly sealed before cooking. If they still leak, it might be due to overcooking or trapping air. Next time, be sure to press out as much air as possible when sealing the ravioli. Try adding a bit more egg to the filling to help bind it better, and keep a close eye during the cooking process.
Is this recipe suitable for people with gluten allergies?
Yes! You can easily make these Ghost Purse Ravioli gluten-free by using gluten-free wonton wrappers. They are now widely available in most grocery stores, ensuring everyone can enjoy this festive dish.
Can I make the ravioli filling ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days prior to assembling your ravioli. When you’re ready, just stir it well before using, and you’re all set to create these delightful little parcels!
Hauntingly Delicious Ghost Purse Ravioli with Ricotta Pear Filling
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of whole-milk ricotta, ½ cup of grated Parmesan, ½ cup of finely chopped ripe pear, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, a pinch of nutmeg, and one large egg. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Take a wonton wrapper and place about 1 tablespoon of the creamy filling in the center. Wet the edges with water, fold it over to form a triangle, and press firmly to seal, ensuring no air is trapped inside.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully drop in the ravioli in batches and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until they float. Gently drain with a slotted spoon.
- In a skillet over medium heat, warm 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir in an additional ½ cup of grated Parmesan and a pinch of salt, stirring until the sauce is melted and creamy.
- Plate the ravioli, generously drizzle with the creamy sauce, and garnish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for added color and flavor.