This Brown Butter Sage Sauce is a warm and nutty delight! Made with just butter and fresh sage, it perfectly complements pasta, potatoes, or even grilled chicken.
It’s so easy to make that I often whip it up for a quick dinner treat. Just watch the butter turn golden and smell that lovely aroma—it’s hard not to lick the spoon! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter: This is essential for the rich, nutty flavor of brown butter. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, consider using olive oil or coconut oil. However, they won’t give you the same depth of flavor.
Fresh Sage Leaves: Sage adds an earthy taste to the sauce. You can substitute it with dried sage (use less as it’s more concentrated), or if you want something different, try thyme or rosemary for a new twist!
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese gives the dish its signature saltiness and creaminess. If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a great alternative. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast adds the cheesy flavor.
Ravioli: You can use any filling you like! Cheese or butternut squash ravioli are popular choices. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using fresh or frozen tortellini instead.
How Do I Get the Perfect Brown Butter Sauce?
Making brown butter sauce is simple, but watch closely to avoid burning. Start by melting the butter over medium heat. Once melted, it will foam; stir occasionally to help even cooking. In about 4–5 minutes, it will turn a beautiful golden brown.
- Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. The difference between brown and burnt butter can be just a minute!
- Add the fresh sage leaves after the butter is browned. This will infuse the sauce with awesome flavor.
- Don’t rush! Let the butter do its thing, and you’ll get a lovely nutty taste that pairs perfectly with your ravioli.
Delicious Brown Butter Sage Sauce with Ravioli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup fresh sage leaves
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
For the Ravioli:
- Fresh pasta ravioli (store-bought or homemade, about 10-12 pieces)
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 5-10 minutes cooking, plus a few minutes to prepare and serve. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight yet impressive enough for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ravioli:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, gently add your ravioli to the water. Cook according to the package instructions, or until they float to the surface, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. When they’re done, carefully drain the ravioli and set them aside.
2. Make the Brown Butter:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Watch it closely as it cooks! Stir occasionally and keep an eye on it until it starts foaming and turns a lovely golden brown color. This should take about 4-5 minutes. The nutty smell will let you know it’s getting close!
3. Sauté the Sage:
Now, add the fresh sage leaves to your browned butter. Cook them for about 1-2 minutes, stirring gently. You want the sage to become crispy and fragrant—this is the magic of the dish!
4. Combine Ravioli with the Sauce:
Carefully add your drained ravioli into the skillet with the brown butter and sage. Toss gently to coat each piece in that delicious sauce. Let them cook together for an extra 1-2 minutes just to warm everything through.
5. Final Touches:
Remove the skillet from the heat, and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the ravioli. Season with salt and pepper to your taste for that perfect flavor balance.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
If you like, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a lovely garnish. Serve your brown butter sage ravioli immediately and enjoy this delicious meal!
Can I Use Dried Sage Instead of Fresh Sage?
Yes, you can use dried sage in a pinch! Use about 1 tablespoon of dried sage as it is more concentrated than fresh. Add it to the butter after it has browned to release its flavors, but be careful as it can burn easily.
What If I Don’t Have Parmesan Cheese?
No worries! You can substitute Parmesan with grated Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Both will add a creamy, savory flavor to your dish.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a little extra butter to bring back the sauce’s richness.
Can I Use Frozen Ravioli?
Absolutely! Frozen ravioli can be cooked directly from frozen. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time. Keep an eye on them, and they’re done when they float to the top!
