Have you ever wished for a ravioli that’s both fun to make and perfect for spooky nights? I’m obsessed with these Ghost Purse Ravioli because they bring a playful twist to classic pasta dishes and are impossible not to love. The ghost purse ravioli capture that festive Halloween spirit while delivering comforting, cheesy goodness inside every bite.

This recipe is perfect for anyone wanting to add a little flair to their dinner table whether you’re cooking for kids or just craving something creative and delicious. Ready to make a dish that’s as charming as it is tasty? Let’s dive in.
Why I Can’t Stop Making These Cookies
- Quick to assemble with simple ingredients you likely have on hand.
- The subtle blend of cheeses and herbs adds a delightful flavor twist.
- Uses pantry staples, making last-minute dinner plans a breeze.
- Kid-friendly appearance and taste, encouraging even picky eaters.
- Perfect seasonal vibe for Halloween parties and cozy autumn evenings.
What Type of Cheese Should I Use?
For the best flavor and texture in ghost purse ravioli, fresh ricotta cheese is ideal. Its creamy consistency makes the filling smooth and luscious. When choosing ricotta, look for whole milk varieties for richness and avoid watery kinds that can make the pasta soggy.
You can use fresh cheese straight from the fridge, but pat it dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. If you opt for frozen ricotta or shredded mozzarella blends, thaw completely and drain thoroughly before assembling to maintain the perfect filling consistency.
Options for Ingredient Alternatives
- Swap butter for olive oil or coconut oil when making your dough (chill if using coconut oil for better texture).
- Use a mix of mozzarella and parmesan instead of ricotta for a sharper taste.
- Replace whole milk with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free twist.
- Experiment with extracts like garlic or basil essence to add a unique flair.
- Fresh spinach or sun-dried tomatoes can substitute herbs for an extra pop of flavor.
The Biggest Challenges While Baking
- Folding the delicate pasta dough around the filling: fold the dough gently and seal tight to avoid breakage.
- Using the right butter temperature: softened but still cool butter helps create pliable dough.
- Avoid overmixing the dough, which can result in tough texture mix just until the ingredients combine.
- Fix dry dough by adding 1 tablespoon of milk at a time, little by little, to keep it tender.
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling; this prevents sticking and makes it easier to handle.
Storage & Freezing Instructions
Ghost purse ravioli can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days before cooking. To freeze, layer the prepared but uncooked ravioli between parchment paper in a single container or zip-top bag. Freeze flat and cook straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the boiling time. The dough also freezes well, wrapped tightly and thawed overnight in the fridge before use.
Estimated Nutrition
For the entire batch, expect roughly 900 calories total, with about 18 grams of fat, 90 grams of carbohydrates, and 30 grams of protein depending on your cheese and filling choices. Per serving (about 4–5 ravioli), calories range from 150 to 200, making this a satisfying but not overly heavy meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (240 g)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 Tbsp olive oil or softened butter (15 g)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese, well-drained (240 g)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (60 g)
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan (30 g)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or spinach (optional) (10 g)
- 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine the flour and salt in a bowl. Make a well in the center, add eggs and olive oil or butter, then mix gently until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, mix ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl until well combined.
- Roll the dough out thinly on a floured surface. Cut into 3-inch circles.
- Place about 1 teaspoon of cheese filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling and pinch edges to seal, shaping each into a little “ghost purse.”
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook ravioli in batches for about 3–4 minutes or until they float to the surface.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and serve warm with marinara sauce or browned butter and sage.
Tips, Variations & Serving Ideas
- Add diced roasted pumpkin or sweet potato to the filling for a seasonal twist.
- Use black sesame seeds or edible ink pens to draw eyes on the ghost purses.
- Underbake slightly if you prefer gooey, melted cheese centers.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 2 days.
- Freeze cooked ravioli in sauce portioned in freezer-safe containers.
- Serve with garlic bread and a green salad for a full meal.
- Experiment with different sauces like pesto or a creamy mushroom sauce.
FAQs
Q: Can I use store-bought pasta dough for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Fresh or refrigerated pasta dough works well and speeds up the process.
Q: How do I prevent the ravioli from bursting during cooking?
A: Make sure to seal the edges tightly and don’t overcrowd the pot while boiling.
Q: Can I prepare these in advance for a party?
A: Yes, you can assemble and freeze the ravioli ahead of time, then cook them fresh on the day.
Save This for Later
If you love creative and delicious recipes, be sure to save and share this ghost purse ravioli recipe on Pinterest for your next spooky night dinner. It’s a dinner you’ll want to revisit year after year!
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