Description
This Baked Ravioli Casserole is a quick and comforting dinner option that combines tender cheese ravioli with a rich marinara sauce and a creamy cheese topping. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a perfect family-friendly meal featuring layers of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, finished with fresh basil or Italian seasoning for an irresistible oven-baked dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 package frozen cheese ravioli (about 20 oz)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves or 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, for topping
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Boil the Ravioli: Cook the frozen cheese ravioli in boiling salted water for 4-5 minutes or until just tender. Drain thoroughly to remove excess water, which can dilute the sauce.
- Layer the Ingredients: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Arrange half of the cooked ravioli evenly, then dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese over them. Add another layer of marinara sauce. Repeat with remaining ravioli and sauce.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Finish by scattering fresh basil leaves or a pinch of Italian seasoning.
- Bake Until Golden: Bake the casserole uncovered for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving for optimal gooey texture.
Notes
- Don’t overcook ravioli to prevent mushiness in the casserole.
- Drain ravioli thoroughly to avoid watery casserole.
- Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley to enhance flavor.
- If cheese browns too quickly, loosely cover casserole with foil midway through baking.
- You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate before baking to save time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: baked ravioli, ravioli casserole, quick dinner, cheesy pasta bake, comfort food, gluten free dinner