Pin it
This carnivore ravioli recipe delivers all the comfort of traditional pasta with zero carbs, perfect for anyone following a meat-based diet but still craving those Italian flavors. The cheese-based "pasta" creates a deliciously satisfying alternative that will scratch that ravioli itch without compromising your dietary goals.
I discovered this recipe during my first month on the carnivore diet when pasta cravings hit hard. What started as an experiment has become a weekly staple that even my non-carnivore friends request when they visit.
Key Ingredients
- Mozzarella Cheese: slices provide the perfect pliable "pasta" wrapper that crisps beautifully at the edges
- Ricotta Cheese: adds that authentic ravioli filling creaminess and helps bind the filling together
- Ground Italian Sausage or Ground Beef: brings savory protein and traditional ravioli flavor
- Garlic Powder: creates depth of flavor even in this simple recipe
- Italian Seasoning: adds classic herb notes that make this truly taste like genuine ravioli
- Parmesan Cheese: contributes a nutty umami punch that elevates the entire dish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Workspace:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. The parchment is crucial as the cheese will stick terribly to an unlined pan and ruin your ravioli sheets.
- Create Cheese "Pasta" Sheets:
- Cut the mozzarella slices in half and arrange them with space between each on your lined baking sheet. Bake for exactly 5-6 minutes watching carefully. You want them melted but not browned or crispy as they need to remain pliable.
- Prepare The Filling:
- While the cheese melts, thoroughly mix the ricotta, cooked ground meat, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and grated parmesan in a small bowl. The warmth from the freshly cooked meat helps the flavors meld beautifully.
- Assemble Your Ravioli:
- Remove the melted cheese from the oven and let cool for 1-2 minutes. They should be hot but handleable. Place about a tablespoon of the ricotta mixture in the center of each cheese slice and fold over to create a halfmoon shape. Press edges gently to seal.
Pin it
My daughter who normally refuses anything "diet" actually requested these for her birthday dinner last month. The moment she asked for "those cheese pocket things" made all my carnivore experimentation worthwhile.
Storage Tips
These carnivore ravioli are best enjoyed immediately while the cheese is still warm and pliable. However, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and warm in a 325°F oven for about 5 minutes until just heated through. Microwaving tends to make them tough, so oven reheating is strongly preferred.
Customization Options
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Try using provolone or thinly sliced cheddar for different flavor profiles. For the filling, consider mixing in crumbled bacon, shredded chicken, or even canned salmon for variety. If you follow a less strict carnivore approach, adding a small amount of finely diced onion or bell pepper to the filling brings wonderful texture and flavor. Those incorporating some plant foods might enjoy a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil over the finished ravioli.
Serving Suggestions
These carnivore ravioli shine as a standalone meal, but they pair beautifully with carnivore-friendly sides. Consider serving alongside ribeye steak, roasted bone marrow, or bacon-wrapped chicken thighs for a complete meal. If you follow a more flexible approach, a simple side salad with olive oil dressing complements the richness of the ravioli perfectly. For special occasions, try drizzling the finished ravioli with a small amount of brown butter and sage.
Pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What is the base for carnivore ravioli?
The base for carnivore ravioli uses melted mozzarella slices as a grain-free alternative to traditional pasta.
- → Can I substitute the ground sausage?
Yes, you can use ground beef, pork, or any cooked and browned meat of your choice for the filling.
- → How do I ensure the mozzarella doesn't overbake?
Bake the mozzarella for 5-6 minutes at 375°F, just until it melts and becomes pliable without crisping.
- → Is this suitable for a strict carnivore diet?
Yes, but omit the garlic powder and Italian seasoning to keep it stricter to carnivore guidelines.
- → Can I make this dish in advance?
While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare and store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.