Heart-shaped ravioli is a perfect way to add a romantic touch to any meal. Whether it’s for Valentine’s Day, an anniversary, or simply a special dinner, these adorable pasta pockets are both delicious and beautiful. With the right tools and techniques, making heart-shaped ravioli at home is easier than you think.
Why Make Heart-Shaped Ravioli?

Heart-shaped ravioli is more than just pasta—it’s a creative expression of love and care. The heart shape symbolizes affection, making it an ideal dish for special occasions. Unlike store-bought options, homemade ravioli allows you to customize fillings and flavors to suit your preferences, giving the dish a personal touch.
Additionally, making heart-shaped ravioli is a fun and rewarding activity. It’s perfect for getting the family involved, creating a memorable cooking experience with loved ones. From preparing the dough to sealing the ravioli, the process is both creative and satisfying.
Step-by-step guide to making Heart Shaped Ravioli

Ingredients Needed for Heart-Shaped Ravioli
For the Pasta Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 3 large eggs
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
For the Filling:
The filling can be customized, but here are two popular options:
Cheese Filling:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Spinach and Ricotta Filling:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup cooked spinach (finely chopped)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg
For Assembly:
- Heart-shaped cookie cutter
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Water (for sealing edges)
For the Sauce (Optional):
- Marinara, Alfredo, or brown butter sage sauce, depending on your preference.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Heart-Shaped Ravioli
1. Prepare the Pasta Dough
To make the pasta dough:
- Place the flour on a clean surface or in a large bowl. Create a well in the center and crack the eggs into the well.
- Add salt and olive oil (optional). Gradually mix the eggs into the flour using a fork.
- Once the dough starts to come together, knead it by hand for 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes to relax the gluten.
Resting the dough ensures it will roll out smoothly and won’t spring back when cut into shapes.
2. Prepare the Filling
While the dough is resting, prepare your filling of choice. Mix the ricotta, Parmesan, and any additional ingredients (like spinach or seasonings) in a bowl until fully combined. Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Set aside in the refrigerator until ready to use.
3. Roll Out the Dough
Divide the dough into two portions. Lightly flour your surface and roll out one portion of the dough into a thin, even sheet. Repeat with the second portion.
If you have a pasta machine, use it to roll the dough to your desired thickness, typically the second-to-last setting. For heart-shaped ravioli, thinner dough works best to avoid overly thick edges.
4. Cut Out Heart Shapes
Using a heart-shaped cookie cutter, cut out as many hearts as possible from the rolled-out dough. You’ll need two hearts for each ravioli—one for the bottom layer and one for the top.
Gather any scraps of dough, knead them together, and roll them out again to cut more hearts.
5. Fill the Ravioli
- Place half of the heart shapes on a lightly floured surface. These will be the bases of the ravioli.
- Spoon a small amount of filling (about 1 teaspoon) into the center of each heart, leaving enough space around the edges to seal the ravioli.
- Brush the edges of the hearts with a light coating of egg wash (whisked egg) or water.
6. Seal the Ravioli
- Place a second heart shape on top of each filled base. Press down gently around the edges to seal the filling inside.
- Use a fork to crimp the edges, ensuring the ravioli are securely sealed. This also adds a decorative touch.
Be sure to press out any air pockets to prevent the ravioli from bursting during cooking.
7. Cook the Ravioli
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil.
- Drop the ravioli into the water in small batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Cook for 3–5 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
- Remove the cooked ravioli with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate or directly into your sauce.
Sauce Pairings for Heart-Shaped Ravioli
Choosing the right sauce can elevate your heart-shaped ravioli. Here are some popular options:
- Marinara Sauce: A simple tomato-based sauce complements cheese or spinach fillings beautifully.
- Alfredo Sauce: A creamy, cheesy sauce pairs perfectly with the richness of the ravioli.
- Brown Butter Sage Sauce: For a gourmet twist, drizzle your ravioli with brown butter and crispy sage leaves.
Tips for Perfect Heart-Shaped Ravioli
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ricotta, spinach, and eggs will enhance the flavor of your ravioli.
- Don’t Overfill: Use just enough filling to avoid the ravioli bursting during cooking.
- Work Quickly: Avoid letting the dough dry out by working efficiently and covering unused portions with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
- Experiment with Fillings: Don’t be afraid to try unique combinations like mushrooms, butternut squash, or even crab meat.
What can I use instead of a ravioli cutter?
If you don’t have a ravioli cutter, don’t worry! There are several common kitchen tools and methods you can use to cut and seal ravioli effectively. Here are the best alternatives:
1. Knife or Pizza Cutter
- How to Use: Roll out your pasta dough and place your filling in evenly spaced portions. Lay the second sheet of dough on top and gently press around the filling to remove air. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut straight or square shapes around the filling.
- Tip: Be careful to cut cleanly and press the edges together with your fingers or a fork to seal the ravioli properly.
2. Heart-Shaped or Regular Cookie Cutter
- How to Use: If you’re making decorative ravioli (like heart-shaped ones), cookie cutters are perfect. Place the filling on the dough, then use the cutter to create the desired shape.
- Tip: Use egg wash or water around the edges before pressing them together to ensure a tight seal.
3. Fork
- How to Use: Use a knife or pizza cutter to cut out ravioli squares or rectangles. Then, press the edges together with the prongs of a fork to seal them. This method works well for adding a decorative crimped edge.
- Tip: Lightly dust the fork with flour to prevent sticking.
4. Glass or Cup
- How to Use: Use the rim of a drinking glass or cup to cut circular ravioli. Press the glass down firmly over the dough and filling, and use your fingers or a fork to seal the edges.
- Tip: Ensure the glass is floured to avoid tearing the dough.
5. Pastry Wheel or Fluted Cutter
- How to Use: If you have a pastry wheel or fluted cutter, it’s an excellent option to create decorative edges. Simply cut around the filling and use the wheel to create wavy edges.
- Tip: These cutters are great for giving your ravioli a professional look.
6. Freehand with a Knife
- How to Use: If no other tools are available, you can cut ravioli freehand with a sharp knife. Carefully trace out your desired shapes around the filling and seal them with your fingers or a fork.
- Tip: Make sure to work on a floured surface to prevent sticking.
7. Ravioli Mold Alternative
- How to Use: If you don’t have a ravioli mold, use a baking sheet or similar flat surface to shape the dough. You can press gently around the filling with your fingers to form individual ravioli, then cut them out with a knife or cutter.
With these tools and methods, you can easily create ravioli at home without a ravioli cutter! Just remember to seal the edges properly to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.
Conclusion
Making heart-shaped ravioli is a fun and creative way to show love through food. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a stunning dish perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a family gathering, these adorable pasta pockets are sure to impress. Customize the fillings and sauces to suit your taste, and enjoy the satisfaction of homemade ravioli.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze heart-shaped ravioli?
Yes, you can freeze them! Lay the ravioli in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding an extra minute to the cooking time.
2. What can I use if I don’t have a heart-shaped cookie cutter?
If you don’t have a heart-shaped cutter, you can use a knife to cut hearts freehand or use a circular cutter and shape the dough into hearts manually.
3. How can I make gluten-free heart-shaped ravioli?
Use gluten-free all-purpose flour or a pasta flour blend to make the dough. Ensure all other ingredients, like fillings, are also gluten-free for a safe and delicious alternative.