This baked ravioli casserole is a delicious and easy dish that combines layers of cheese, marinara sauce, and ravioli for a comforting meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, it can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving.
The recipe is straightforward and requires minimal cooking skills. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it your own.
Overview of Baked Ravioli Casserole
This baked ravioli casserole is a comforting dish that brings together layers of cheese, marinara sauce, and ravioli.
It’s perfect for busy weeknights, allowing for easy preparation and minimal cooking skills.
With its inviting aroma and rich flavors, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients That Make It Special
The key to this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients.
Frozen cheese ravioli serves as the foundation, providing a hearty base.
A generous amount of marinara sauce adds depth, while a blend of mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheese creates a creamy texture that melts beautifully in the oven.
Seasonings like Italian herbs and garlic powder enhance the overall taste, making each bite delightful.
Fresh basil or parsley can be added as a garnish, offering a pop of color and freshness.
Preparation Steps
Getting started with this casserole is straightforward.
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
A thin layer of marinara sauce is spread at the bottom of a baking dish, setting the stage for the layers to come.
Next, half of the frozen ravioli is placed over the sauce, followed by dollops of ricotta cheese and a sprinkle of mozzarella.
This layering process is repeated, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor and texture.
Baking to Perfection
Once all the layers are assembled, the dish is covered with aluminum foil and baked for 30 minutes.
This initial baking allows the ravioli to cook through and the flavors to meld together.
Afterward, removing the foil and baking for an additional 10-15 minutes creates a golden, bubbly top that is simply irresistible.
Serving Suggestions
After baking, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
This waiting period helps the layers set, making it easier to cut and serve.
A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top adds a beautiful finish and enhances the dish’s visual appeal.
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread, making for a complete meal that is sure to satisfy.
Its hearty nature and cheesy goodness make it a perfect option for gatherings or family dinners.
Nutrition and Serving Size
Each serving of this baked ravioli casserole offers a balanced meal with approximately 400 calories.
With 20 grams of fat and 18 grams of protein, it provides a satisfying dish that can keep you full and energized.
The dish serves six, making it ideal for sharing with family or friends.
Easy Cheesy Baked Ravioli Casserole
This casserole features layers of frozen ravioli, marinara sauce, and a blend of cheeses, baked until bubbly and golden. The recipe takes about 50 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 1 (25-ounce) package frozen cheese ravioli
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Casserole Dish: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Layer the Ingredients: Place half of the frozen ravioli over the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta cheese over the ravioli, then sprinkle with a third of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining ravioli, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Season: Sprinkle Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the top.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 400kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 40g