Name: Baked Ravioli Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 25 oz frozen ravioli; 2 cups marinara sauce; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

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Baked Ravioli Casserole

A warm embrace awaits you as you enter the cozy world of Baked Ravioli Casserole. This delightful dish brings a comforting blend of savory smells with the rich notes of marinara sauce and melted cheese wafting through your kitchen. The tender ravioli nestled in creamy ricotta, and topped with bubbly mozzarella makes each bite an indulgent reminder of loved ones gathered around the dinner table. This recipe offers a step-by-step journey to creating a comforting dish that warms both the belly and the heart, perfect for sharing on a busy weeknight or a special family gathering.

The roots of ravioli can be traced back to Italy’s rich culinary heritage, where pasta is more than just food; it’s a tradition steeped in love and family ties. This dish’s history intertwines the rustic charm of Italian cooking with the convenience of modern times. The idea of layering ravioli with cheeses and sauce originated from the classic lasagna, evolving into a casserole that celebrates the delightful textures and flavors of pasta without the labor of making it from scratch.

Let’s make this comfort food with a simple list of delicious ingredients:

(25 oz) package frozen ravioli (choose a halal cheese or meat option)
2 cups marinara sauce, dousing your dish with a rich, tangy embrace
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, whose gooey texture and mild flavor melt into perfection
1 cup ricotta cheese, creamy and decadent for added richness
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, dotted with a nutty depth
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, combining fragrant herbs that sing of sun-kissed Italian fields
Salt and pepper to taste, for a finishing touch
Fresh basil, for a pop of color and herbal brightness that elevates the dish

Cooking Baked Ravioli Casserole can be as quick or as leisurely as you desire. A quick version involves grabbing frozen ravioli and pre-made sauce, leading to a hassle-free assembly that can be ready in under an hour. Alternatively, with a little extra time, homemade marinara and pasta can take your dish to new heights, allowing you to experience the entire journey from scratch to table. Remember, quality ingredients make all the difference, so opt for the best you can find.

Here are some tips for success: Ensure your baking dish is well-greased, or use non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Letting your casserole sit for a few minutes after baking allows the layers to set, making for a cleaner cut. Don’t rush the broiling process; keep an eye on the bubbling cheese to prevent burning.

As we begin creating this delicious masterpiece, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread a layer of marinara sauce across the bottom, embracing the dish with that aromatic, tangy goodness. Now, it’s time to place half of the frozen ravioli on top, ensuring each piece is nestled cozily in the sauce.

Next, dollop half of the ricotta cheese over the ravioli — let it glisten invitingly! Sprinkle a cup of shredded mozzarella cheese into the dish, its creamy texture providing an irresistible element that will soon bubble and brown. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, infusing your dish with fragrant herbs.

Now, add another layer of marinara sauce. Layer on the remaining ravioli, followed by the remaining ricotta and yet another cup of mozzarella. Finish this culinary masterpiece with the last drizzling of marinara sauce and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top, which will create a gloriously cheesy crust.

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes; this allows the flavors to meld together while retaining moisture. After that, remove the foil and allow the dish to bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until you can see the cheese bubbling and turning golden brown. Once out of the oven, resist the urge to dive right in; let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil to add that beautiful pop of color and a fresh aroma before serving.

Serving Suggestions & Occasions: Baked Ravioli Casserole serves as a sumptuous main course perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or an easy weeknight meal. Pair it with a crisp green salad topped with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole. For a cozy evening, a refreshing glass of sparkling water with lemon can complement the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid: Ensure your ravioli are adequately covered in sauce to prevent them from drying out during baking. Overfilling the dish can cause spillovers, so stick to the recommended amounts. Lastly, allowing the casserole to rest before serving is essential; cutting into it too soon may result in a gooey mess rather than neat, beautiful layers.

Healthier Alternatives & Variations: For a lighter option, consider using whole wheat ravioli or zucchini noodles as a substitute. Incorporating sautéed spinach or other veggies can increase nutritional value and add texture. You could also switch out mozzarella for a lower-fat cheese or use vegan cheese for a plant-based alternative. For some spice, add red pepper flakes for a little kick.

FAQs:

Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh ravioli will cook faster, so adjust your baking time accordingly.
What type of marinara sauce is best?
A homemade sauce made with fresh tomatoes and herbs provides the best flavor, but store-bought works well for convenience.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze Baked Ravioli Casserole?
Yes, it freezes well. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before you freeze it in an airtight container.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply use cheese ravioli and skip the meat, keeping the other ingredients the same.

As you stand in the kitchen, the enticing aroma of Baked Ravioli Casserole envelops you, evoking memories of laughter and warmth. Each layer tells a story of comfort, tradition, and love—a dish that brings friends and families together. Don’t wait too long to try this recipe; indulge in the warmth of delicious layers today! Your belly will thank you, and your heart will rejoice in the delightful experience that is homemade Baked Ravioli Casserole.

Baked Ravioli Casserole

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Author: eliana-quinn
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A comforting Baked Ravioli Casserole filled with rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

25 oz frozen ravioli
2 cups marinara sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
Place half of the frozen ravioli on top of the sauce.
Dollop half of the ricotta cheese over the ravioli.
Sprinkle a cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the ricotta.
Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Add another layer of marinara sauce.
Layer the remaining ravioli, followed by the remaining ricotta and mozzarella.
Finish with a drizzle of marinara and a sprinkle of Parmesan on top.
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Let cool for a few minutes before serving, garnished with fresh basil.