Thanksgiving Leftovers Ravioli: A Culinary Delight

Thanksgiving is often celebrated with an abundance of food, leaving many families with delectable leftovers. Rather than letting those tasty remnants go to waste, why not transform them into something extraordinary? Thanksgiving Leftovers Ravioli is a creative way to repurpose leftover turkey, stuffing, and even cranberry sauce into a delightful pasta dish that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

For the ravioli dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Water (as needed)

For the filling:

• 2 cups leftover turkey, diced
• 1 cup leftover stuffing (or bread crumbs with spices)
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Fresh sage leaves for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ravioli Dough

1. On a clean surface, combine flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the eggs and olive oil.
2. Gradually mix the flour into the eggs using a fork, until a rough dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Wrap it in plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes at room temperature.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine diced turkey, leftover stuffing, ricotta cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
2. Add chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

1. Divide the rested dough into four equal portions. Keep the pieces you are not working with covered to prevent drying.
2. Using a pasta machine or a rolling pin, roll out one portion of dough into a thin sheet (about 1/16 inch thick).
3. Use flour to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Form the Ravioli

1. Place small mounds of filling (about 1 tablespoon) across the pasta sheet, leaving enough space between each mound.
2. Moisten the edges of the pasta with water, then fold the dough over to cover the filling.
3. Press down around each mound to seal, ensuring no air pockets remain, then cut into squares with a knife or ravioli cutter.
4. Repeat the process with the remaining dough and filling.

Step 5: Cook the Ravioli

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ravioli in batches for about 4-5 minutes until they float to the surface.
2. Use a slotted spoon to transfer cooked ravioli to a plate.

Step 6: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
2. Pour in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for 3-4 minutes, thickening slightly.
3. Add the cooked ravioli to the sauce, gently tossing to coat.

Cooking Tips

• Use fresh or store-bought herbs to elevate the flavors of your ravioli. Fresh sage pairs beautifully with the butter sauce.
• If you prefer a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat flour for the ravioli dough or substituting part of the ricotta cheese with Greek yogurt.
• If you have other Thanksgiving leftovers, like mashed potatoes or green bean casserole, feel free to incorporate them into the filling for added flavor.
• To create an extra special touch, consider adding a sprinkling of toasted hazelnuts or pine nuts to the finished dish for texture.

Serving Suggestions

Plate your Thanksgiving Leftovers Ravioli beautifully, garnished with freshly chopped herbs and a drizzle of the garlic butter sauce. Serve it alongside a crisp side salad or roasted seasonal vegetables for a balanced meal. A glass of Chardonnay or a light-bodied red wine will enhance the dish’s rich flavors.

This recipe not only helps reduce food waste but also provides a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of Thanksgiving long after the holiday has passed. So roll up your sleeves, gather your leftovers, and create a gourmet meal that will have everyone craving more.

Don’t forget to capture the moment! Share your Thanksgiving Leftovers Ravioli on social media with tantalizing food photography to inspire others to embrace their leftovers creatively. Happy cooking!