Soft & Bite-Sized (IDDSI Level 6)
Tender foods cut into small, bite-sized pieces that are easy to chew and break apart with minimal effort.
There’s something magical about brown butter; it’s the secret ingredient that transforms simple dishes into something exceptional. The process of browning butter caramelizes the milk solids, creating a deep, nutty flavor that adds complexity to any sauce. Pairing it with tomato sauce brings a burst of brightness and tang, balancing the richness perfectly. This Soft & Bite-Sized (IDDSI Level 6) recipe is perfect for family dinners or special occasions when you want to bring warmth and comfort to the table in a unique way.
Brown Butter Tomato Sauce Ravioli Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a light-colored saucepan or skillet (to see the color change), melt the butter over medium heat. As the butter melts, stir or swirl the pan frequently. The butter will foam as it cooks.
- After a few minutes, the foam will subside, and you’ll see the milk solids begin to brown. The butter will take on a rich, golden-brown color and release a nutty aroma. Once the butter reaches a deep amber color, immediately remove it from the heat to prevent burning. Set aside.
- In the same pan with the brown butter, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the tomato puree or crushed tomatoes. Add the basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Return to heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ravioli and cook according to the package instructions or until tender. Drain and add the ravioli to the pan with the tomato sauce, gently tossing to coat.
- Spoon the ravioli onto plates, cut into 15mm pieces and drizzle with any extra brown butter tomato sauce from the pan. Sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil if desired.
SLP Notes
Testing Method: Each piece should be cuttable with the side of a fork and pass the fork pressure test; no knife required. Piece Size: Maximum 1.5 cm for adults (8 mm for children). Trim larger pieces before serving. Texture Goal: Soft, tender, and moist throughout with no hard edges, gristle, or chewy skins. Wet cooking methods are highly recommended. Temperature Note: Heat can change firmness; always check texture again after reheating.For more soft and bite sized recipes, click here.
How do I…
Adjust the macros?
Protein: Add ricotta, meat or tofu into the meal, stir in blended cottage cheese or blended white beans to up fiber and protein.
Fat: Increase or decrease amount of oils/butter/cheese.
Carbs: Use low carb or vegetable based ravioli, serve fewer ravioli with fortified sauce/added protein.
Make it fit my eating style?
Gluten-Free: Specialty pasta for gluten free eaters is available as options.
Dairy-Free/Vegan: Trade the cheese for a vegan option like vegan shreds or nutritional yeast.
Make it fit my spoons?
Use store bought ravioli.
To reduce dishes, cook the ravioli first in a pot, then you can use the same pot for making the sauce.
Use garlic powder and dried basil.
Tips for Browning Butter
Use a Light-Colored Pan: This helps you see the color change clearly so you don’t overcook it.
Keep Stirring: Constant stirring or swirling ensures the milk solids don’t stick to the bottom and burn.
Watch Closely: Butter goes from golden to burnt quickly, so be vigilant and remove it from heat as soon as it turns a deep amber color.
Aromatic Hints: When you smell a nutty, toasty aroma, the butter is ready.
Keep Reading
For a larger batch dinner option, this Soft and Bite Sized Beef Stroganoff is creamy convenience.
Every recipe here is designed for texture sensitive eaters: from dysphagia to dental issues to picky eaters. Get recipe roundups and practical tips by joining the mailing list.
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