Keto Italian Sausage Ravioli – Low-Carb, Cheesy & Easy

Introduction

Craving ravioli on a keto diet? This Keto Italian Sausage Ravioli recipe gives you all the comforting flavors of traditional pasta—without the carbs. Instead of using pasta dough, we wrap a savory sausage filling in thin, low-carb cheese “pasta” sheets for a satisfying, grain-free dinner that’s fast, fun, and totally keto-friendly.

These ravioli are rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight comfort meal, a fun keto twist on Italian classics, or a make-ahead freezer option, this recipe delivers. Pair with marinara, Alfredo, or browned butter and sage for endless keto-friendly variations.

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Ingredients Overview

This recipe takes a low-carb approach by replacing traditional pasta with cheese-based wrappers. Here’s what you’ll need:

Italian Sausage

• Use ground Italian sausage (mild or spicy).

• Adds protein and rich, herby flavor to the filling.

• Can substitute with ground beef or turkey plus Italian seasoning.

Cream Cheese

• Adds creaminess and helps bind the filling.

• Softened cream cheese mixes more smoothly into hot sausage.

Mozzarella Cheese (Sliced)

• Used as the ravioli “pasta” wrapper.

• Use pre-sliced low-moisture mozzarella or slice a block into ⅛” thick slices.

• Avoid shredded cheese—it won’t hold the shape.

Parmesan Cheese

• Adds salty, nutty flavor to the filling and topping.

Marinara or Alfredo Sauce (Low-Carb)

• Choose a sugar-free, keto-friendly sauce.

• Rao’s, Yo Mama’s, or homemade options work well.

Fresh Basil or Parsley

• Optional, but adds color and freshness to finish the dish.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

These ravioli come together with just a few steps and a little creativity. No pasta dough required!

1. Cook the Sausage Filling

• In a skillet over medium heat, brown:

  • ½ lb ground Italian sausage

• Break up as it cooks and cook through completely (5–6 minutes).

• Remove from heat and stir in:

  • 2 oz cream cheese

  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan

• Let cool slightly so it thickens for easier filling.

2. Prepare Cheese Slices

• Lay out 12 mozzarella slices (about 2.5” square) on parchment paper.

• Microwave 2–3 slices at a time for 15–20 seconds, just until soft and pliable.

3. Fill and Fold

• Add 1 tsp of sausage mixture to the center of each softened slice.

• Fold into a triangle or square, pressing the edges to seal.

• Repeat with remaining cheese and filling.

Tip: If edges don’t stick, use your fingers to press or fold over tightly. The melted cheese will seal as it cools.

4. Bake or Pan-Crisp (Optional)

• For baked ravioli: Place folded ravioli on parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes, just to melt and seal.

• For pan-crisped ravioli: Heat a dry nonstick skillet over medium and cook ravioli 1–2 minutes per side until golden and crisp.

5. Add Sauce & Garnish

• Warm ½–¾ cup keto marinara or Alfredo sauce in a pan or microwave.

• Spoon over ravioli and top with more Parmesan and chopped herbs.

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Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Pro Tips:

• Work quickly once cheese is softened—it firms up fast.

• Make a double batch of the sausage filling to freeze for next time.

• Don’t overstuff or cheese will split—1 tsp filling per ravioli is perfect.

Variations:

• Ricotta & Spinach: Mix ricotta, cooked spinach, and Parmesan for a vegetarian version.

• Cheeseburger Ravioli: Use seasoned ground beef, cheddar, and mustard for a fun twist.

• Buffalo Chicken Ravioli: Shredded chicken, cream cheese, and hot sauce filling with ranch on the side.

Substitutions:

• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free mozzarella and cream cheese (like Miyoko’s or Violife).

• No sausage? Use ground beef or turkey seasoned with Italian herbs.

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

These ravioli make a rich and filling dinner or lunch and can easily be dressed up or kept simple.

Serve With:

• Steamed broccoli or zucchini noodles on the side

• A crisp keto Caesar salad

• Extra sauce for dipping or drizzling

Perfect For:

• Quick weeknight dinners

• Keto meal prep

• Date nights with wine and low-carb garlic bread

• Fun family dinners (kids love helping assemble!)

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Nutritional & Health Notes

These ravioli are high in fat and protein, low in carbs, and free from grains or gluten.

Estimated Per Serving (6 ravioli):

• Calories: 310

• Fat: 24g

• Protein: 18g

• Carbs: 4g

• Net Carbs: 3–4g

• Fiber: <1g

Why It Works for Keto:

• No flour or pasta dough

• Uses high-fat cheese and protein-rich filling

• Low net carb count for staying in ketosis

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FAQs

Q1: Can I freeze keto ravioli?

A1: Yes. Freeze them on a parchment-lined tray before baking. Once frozen, store in a sealed container for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen for 10–12 minutes.

Q2: What cheese works best as a wrapper?

A2: Sliced low-moisture mozzarella works best. Provolone slices also work well and have a slightly sharper flavor.

Q3: How do I prevent cheese from cracking?

A3: Soften it just enough in the microwave—don’t let it bubble or overcook. Work quickly while warm.

Q4: Can I air fry these?

A4: Yes! Air fry at 375°F for 5–6 minutes. They’ll turn golden and lightly crisp.

Q5: Are these good for meal prep?

A5: Definitely. Store fully assembled (uncooked or baked) in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in oven or skillet.

Q6: What sauces are keto-friendly?

A6: Try sugar-free marinara, creamy Alfredo, basil pesto, or browned butter with garlic.

Q7: Can I make this vegetarian?

A7: Yes! Use sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and ricotta as the filling, or even just herbed cream cheese.

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