Cheesy Ravioli Bake is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines tender ravioli, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or potlucks, offering a hearty and flavorful meal with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy – Uses simple ingredients and requires minimal prep time.
- Family-friendly – A dish that both kids and adults will love.
- Customizable – You can use different types of ravioli and sauces to suit your taste.
- Perfect for leftovers – Reheats well, making it great for meal prep.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Frozen or fresh cheese ravioli
- Marinara sauce
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Italian seasoning
- Olive oil
- Garlic (optional, for extra flavor)
- Fresh basil (for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil.
- Layer the ingredients: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the dish. Arrange a layer of ravioli over the sauce, then sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese.
- Season the dish with Italian seasoning and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
- Total time: 35-40 minutes
Variations
- Protein Boost: Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken between the layers.
- Vegetarian Option: Include sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrients.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or use spicy marinara sauce.
- Different Cheeses: Try ricotta cheese for a creamier texture or provolone for a sharper flavor.
- Homemade Sauce: Use a homemade marinara or Alfredo sauce for a unique twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Assemble the dish but do not bake it. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
- Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
FAQs
How do I prevent the ravioli from becoming soggy?
Use a thicker marinara sauce and avoid overloading with liquid ingredients.
Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh ravioli works just as well and may reduce the baking time slightly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
What type of ravioli works best for this recipe?
Cheese ravioli is the most common, but you can use spinach, mushroom, or even meat-filled ravioli.
Can I make this dish without an oven?
Yes, you can cook it on the stovetop in a covered pan over low heat until the cheese melts.
What can I serve with Cheesy Ravioli Bake?
Pair it with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free ravioli and ensure the marinara sauce is gluten-free.
Can I use Alfredo sauce instead of marinara?
Yes, substituting Alfredo sauce will create a creamy, rich variation of the dish.
How do I prevent the cheese from burning?
Cover the dish with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking, then uncover to brown the cheese.
Can I add breadcrumbs for a crispy topping?
Yes, sprinkle seasoned breadcrumbs over the top before baking for added crunch.
Conclusion
Cheesy Ravioli Bake is a simple, delicious, and crowd-pleasing dish that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal to share, this recipe is a must-try. Customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy a warm, cheesy delight!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Cheesy Ravioli Bake is a comforting, easy-to-make casserole loaded with tender ravioli, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese—perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh or frozen cheese ravioli
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the dish.
- Layer half the ravioli, then top with ricotta, mozzarella, and sauce.
- Repeat layers, finishing with mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Sprinkle Italian seasoning and bake for 25 minutes.
- Broil for 2 minutes for a golden top. Garnish with basil and serve.
Notes
- Use meat-filled ravioli for extra protein.
- Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor.
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