Pumpkin Ravioli Recipes That Warm the Soul and Tickle the Taste Buds

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Pumpkin ravioli isn’t just a fall favorite—it’s a year-round comfort dish in my house. As a chef with roots in Southern hospitality and a flair for turning tradition on its head, I’ve always loved how this recipe bridges old-world charm with modern comfort food cravings. In this article, I’ll share my personal connection to pumpkin ravioli, cover ingredients and prep, and wrap it up with the best ways to serve it and elevate your pasta nights. Whether you’re wondering what sauce pairs best or if Trader Joe’s version is worth the hype, I’ve got you covered. And if you’re looking to explore even more comforting classics, I’ve tucked in a few of my handpicked pasta dishes throughout.

Part 1: Why Pumpkin Ravioli Means More Than Just Fall Flavor

Growing Up with Southern Squash Dishes

When I was a kid in Georgia, we didn’t call it pumpkin ravioli. But my grandma made something that came close—handmade dumplings stuffed with roasted squash, cinnamon, and nutmeg, swimming in browned butter. It was rustic and homey, the kind of dish that left you full and happy. Years later, when I trained in New Orleans and first encountered pumpkin ravioli in an upscale twist with sage cream sauce, it took me right back.

That’s the thing about pumpkin ravioli—it’s not just about the pasta. It’s the story it tells. The way the savory-sweet filling hugs your taste buds, or how the creamy textures balance with crispy toppings. It’s an emotion baked into every folded edge.

Nowadays, my kitchen experiments go further: sometimes I add a dash of chili for heat, or swap classic parmesan with vegan nutritional yeast, depending on who’s coming to dinner. But no matter what, my version of pumpkin ravioli stays rooted in that sense of joy and discovery.

Pumpkin ravioli has started showing up everywhere—from gourmet restaurants to grocery store freezer aisles. But making it at home brings unmatched flavor and flexibility. You can control the filling’s sweetness, play around with savory pairings, and even turn leftovers into baked pasta casseroles.

And speaking of pasta transformation, dishes like this have inspired some of my baked pasta recipes with autumn-inspired flavor twists. When you make pumpkin ravioli from scratch or reimagine a store-bought version, you’re creating something unique every time. So whether you’re an adventurous cook or a beginner, this dish has a place on your table.

Now, let’s dive into how to build your pumpkin ravioli masterpiece.

Creating the Perfect Pumpkin Ravioli at Home

Ingredients List

To make pumpkin ravioli from scratch, all you really need is good-quality pasta dough and a flavorful filling. But let’s amp it up. Here’s everything you’ll need:

IngredientSubstitution Option
Pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)Butternut squash or sweet potato purée
Ricotta cheeseCottage cheese or vegan ricotta
Grated parmesan cheeseNutritional yeast (vegan)
Nutmeg and cinnamonPumpkin pie spice (lightly used)
Salt and pepperTo taste
Egg (for sealing pasta)Plant-based milk (for a vegan version)

If you’re gluten-free, consider using almond flour pasta dough or check out some delicious gluten-free pasta recipes that adapt beautifully with pumpkin fillings.

Timing

Here’s how the timeline breaks down for making homemade pumpkin ravioli:

  • Prep time: 45 minutes
  • Cook time: 10 minutes
  • Total time: Approximately 55 minutes

That’s about 20% quicker than your average filled pasta dish, especially if you prep the filling and dough ahead.

Pro tip: Make a big batch of filling and freeze it in individual portions. That way, you’re only a dough roll away from ravioli bliss anytime.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Start by mixing the pumpkin with ricotta, parmesan, spices, and seasoning.
  2. Roll your pasta dough to about 1/16 inch thick and cut into squares.
  3. Place a teaspoon of filling on each square, brush edges with egg wash, and top with another pasta square. Press to seal and crimp edges.
  4. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ravioli for 3-4 minutes or until they float.
  5. Drain and immediately transfer to a warm skillet with your sauce of choice (more on that soon).

If you’re craving a shortcut, Trader Joe’s pre-made version is perfect for beginners. I love using their honey-roasted pumpkin ravioli as the base, then topping it with lemon butter, crispy sage, and shaved pecorino. More on how to serve that up later.

For those who love old-school Italian with a plant-forward twist, these vegetarian pasta recipes offer more ways to bring veggies to center stage.

Pumpkin Ravioli Sauces and Pairings That Pop

What Sauce to Go With Pumpkin Ravioli?

This is the million-dollar question. Pumpkin’s delicate sweetness and earthy flavor make it versatile for both creamy and acidic sauces.

Here are my favorite pairings:

  • Brown butter and crispy sage (classic!)
  • Garlic cream sauce with cracked black pepper
  • Tomato sauce with a pinch of chili flakes
  • Pesto with lemon zest for brightness—yes, even pesto pasta recipes can invite pumpkin to the party.

One other standout? A cashew cream sauce with a splash of lemon vinegar—it brings that elegant restaurant flavor home. And if you’re watching calories, try sauces with Greek yogurt or pureed cauliflower for creaminess without the dairy bomb.

Fun fact: According to Healthline, pumpkin is low in calories and packed with fiber and vitamin A, which makes your indulgent sauce feel a bit more earned!

Pasta Night Pairings You Shouldn’t Skip

Pumpkin ravioli deserves more than a fork and half-hearted toast. Try these combos:

  • Bread: Is it even dinner without garlic bread to soak up those buttery sauces?
  • Sides: A crisp arugula salad with balsamic vinaigrette finishes the plate beautifully.

When I feel nostalgic, I’ll serve my ravioli with a Southern twist—collard greens and warm cornbread crumbles on top. Untraditional? Sure. Crazy delicious? Always.

And if you’re craving more sauces, our collection of red sauce pasta recipes gives you marinara-based ideas that flex for any season.

Store-Bought vs. Homemade Pumpkin Ravioli

Is Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Ravioli Good?

Let’s cut to it—yes, Trader Joe’s pumpkin ravioli is surprisingly solid. The filling isn’t overly sweet, and the honey-roasted flavor adds depth without feeling dessert-y. When paired with savory elements like sautéed mushrooms or browned butter, it sings.

Of course, homemade rivals it in richness and freshness, but for a quick midweek dinner? Totally worth it.

If you’re curious how to build a satisfying meal with it, I’ve been mixing in cooked spinach and a dab of lemon zest-infused olive oil—things you’ll also find in some of my go-to spinach pasta recipes.

How to Serve Trader Joe’s Honey Roasted Pumpkin Ravioli

Looking to upgrade your store-bought version? Here’s how:

  • Cook the ravioli according to package directions.
  • In a pan, melt butter and add fresh sage, garlic, and a touch of lemon juice.
  • Drizzle over the ravioli, plate it up, and finish with crispy walnuts or toasted pumpkin seeds.

Want even more wow factor? Serve on a bed of roasted root veggies and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It’s easy, elegant, and totally satisfying.

You’ll find similar pairing techniques in our crowd-favorite quick viral eats like TikTok-inspired feta pasta or creamy garlic shells.

FAQs About Pumpkin Ravioli

  • What sauce to go with pumpkin ravioli?

    The best sauces are brown butter with sage, garlic cream, pesto with lemon zest, and tomato sauce. All enhance pumpkin’s flavor without overpowering it.

  • Is Trader Joe’s pumpkin ravioli good?

    Yes! It’s perfect for fast, cozy meals. Just add a personal twist like crispy turkey ham or toasted pecans to elevate it.

  • What kind of pumpkin is best for ravioli?

    Sugar pie pumpkins or kabocha squash are ideal thanks to their dense texture and natural sweetness. Avoid using jack-o’-lantern varieties—they’re too watery and bland.

  • How to serve Trader Joe’s honey roasted pumpkin ravioli?

    Top with browned butter, sage, candied walnuts, or lemony olive oil. Pair with fresh greens or roasted veggies for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Pumpkin ravioli is more than just a trend—it’s a celebration of flavor, family, seasonality, and creativity. Whether you’re folding dough from scratch or dressing up a store-bought favorite, the key is to make it your own. Switch up sauces, get playful with textures, and don’t forget the garlic bread. My kitchen thrives on that kind of adventure, and I hope yours does too. Armed with bold flavors, quick tips, and reliable recipes, you’ll never look at pasta night the same way again.

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pumpkin ravioli

Pumpkin Ravioli Recipes That Warm the Soul and Tickle the Taste Buds


  • Author: Ray
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Pumpkin ravioli isn’t just for fall—it’s a comforting, flavorful dish with Southern roots and modern flair. Whether homemade or store-bought, it offers rich textures, savory-sweet balance, and versatile pairings that bring comfort any time of year.


Ingredients

Scale

1 cup pumpkin purée (not pie filling)

1/2 cup ricotta cheese

1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

1/8 tsp nutmeg

1/8 tsp cinnamon

Salt and pepper to taste

1 egg (for sealing)

Fresh pasta dough (homemade or store-bought)


Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix pumpkin purée, ricotta, parmesan, nutmeg, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.

2. Roll out pasta dough to 1/16 inch thick and cut into squares.

3. Place a teaspoon of filling on each square.

4. Brush edges with egg wash, top with another pasta square, seal and crimp edges.

5. Bring salted water to boil, cook ravioli for 3–4 minutes until they float.

6. Drain and transfer to skillet with sauce of choice.

Notes

Use butternut squash or sweet potato purée for variation.

For vegan version, use vegan ricotta and plant-based milk.

Try Trader Joe’s pumpkin ravioli for a quick option.

Pair with brown butter sage sauce, garlic cream, or pesto with lemon zest.

Garnish with crispy walnuts or toasted pumpkin seeds for texture.

  • Prep Time: 45 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Boiled
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4 ravioli
  • Calories: 310
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 210mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 11g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: pumpkin ravioli, fall pasta, vegetarian pasta