Looking for a quick and tasty meal? Baked Ravioli Casserole is the answer! This dish combines cheesy ravioli with zesty marinara for a warm hug in a bowl. It’s easy to make and packed with flavor, perfect for busy weeknights. I’ll guide you through every step, from fresh ingredients to serving tips, so you can impress your family or guests without the stress. Let’s dive in!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Layers: This casserole features layers of cheesy goodness and rich marinara that meld together beautifully, creating a comforting and satisfying dish.
- Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or effortless entertaining.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone loves pasta and cheese! This dish is a hit with both kids and adults, making it a great choice for family dinners.
- Customizable: You can easily modify this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins, allowing for endless variations to suit your taste.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 packages (9 oz each) refrigerated cheese ravioli
– 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
To make this baked ravioli casserole, you need a mix of cheese and sauces. Start with two packages of refrigerated cheese ravioli. This choice makes cooking faster and easier. You will also need a jar of marinara sauce. The marinara adds great flavor.
Next, gather the cheeses. You will need ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Ricotta makes the filling creamy. Mozzarella adds gooeyness, and Parmesan gives a nice salty kick.
Herbs and spices are key. You will want dried basil, garlic powder, and onion powder. These spices give depth to the dish. Don’t forget salt and pepper to taste.
Lastly, fresh basil leaves are optional for garnish. They add a pop of color and freshness to your meal. Enjoy building layers of flavor with these ingredients.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat the oven and prepare the baking dish
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and coat it lightly with cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking.
2. Mix the cheese and seasonings
In a large bowl, add 1 cup of ricotta cheese. Then, add half a cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of onion powder. Don’t forget a pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix it all together until creamy and smooth.
3. Layer the casserole
Pour a thin layer of marinara sauce onto the bottom of the baking dish. Then, place half of the cheese ravioli on top in a single layer. Next, add half of the ricotta mixture over the ravioli. Spread it out gently. Pour more marinara sauce on top, covering it well. Repeat this step with the rest of the ravioli and ricotta mixture. Finish by topping it with a generous layer of marinara sauce and the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Baking Instructions
1. Covering and baking the casserole
Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil. This keeps it moist while baking. Place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes.
2. Finishing touches after baking
After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Bake the casserole for another 15 minutes. Watch for the cheese to bubble and turn golden brown. Once it’s done, take it out and let it cool for about 5 minutes. If you like, add fresh basil leaves on top before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Tips for Perfecting Your Baked Ravioli Casserole
– Ensure even cheese distribution: Spread the ricotta and mozzarella evenly. This gives a nice, creamy bite in every forkful.
– Baking tip for a golden top: Remove the foil for the last 15 minutes of baking. This will allow the cheese to bubble and turn golden brown.
– Cooling time before serving: Let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes after baking. This makes it easier to serve and helps the layers set.
Cooking Tools and Equipment
– Essential kitchen tools needed: You will need a large mixing bowl, a 9×13 inch baking dish, and a spoon for layering.
– Suggested baking dish sizes: A 9×13 inch dish works best for this recipe. It allows for nice layers and even cooking.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil or homemade marinara can elevate the flavor of your casserole significantly.
- Layering Technique: Ensure even distribution of sauce and cheese in each layer for a balanced flavor in every bite.
- Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to serve.
- Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix in different cheeses like provolone or gouda for a unique twist on the classic flavors.
Variations
Ingredient Customizations
You can switch up the ravioli to change flavors. Try meat ravioli for a heartier dish. You can also use spinach or mushroom ravioli for a twist. Each type brings its own taste to the casserole.
Cheese choices matter too! If you want a sharper flavor, use aged cheddar. For something creamier, try using ricotta or cream cheese. Mixing different cheeses can create a fun flavor explosion.
Seasonal and Flavor Variations
Adding veggies can boost taste and nutrition. Think about layering in spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. They cook well and add bright colors.
For those who like heat, add spices or peppers. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a kick. Fresh herbs like oregano or thyme also give a nice flavor boost. These changes make your dish unique each time!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep leftovers fresh, follow these steps:
– Refrigeration guidelines: Place your baked ravioli casserole in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the casserole cools down before sealing it.
– Freezing instructions: If you want to freeze it, let it cool completely. Then, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and foil. This will help prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 2 months.
Reheating Tips
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, use these tips:
– Best methods for reheating: The oven works best. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in a baking dish. Cover it with foil to keep moisture in. Bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
– Avoiding sogginess when reheating: To prevent sogginess, avoid adding extra sauce when reheating. The original sauce should be enough. Make sure to cover it with foil to keep it moist but not too wet.
FAQs
Common Questions About Baked Ravioli Casserole
Can I use frozen ravioli?
Yes, you can use frozen ravioli. Just cook it slightly before layering it in the dish. This helps it heat better and mix with the sauce.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply use cheese ravioli and a marinara sauce without meat. You can also add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for more flavor.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead. Just layer the ingredients and cover the dish. Store it in the fridge. Bake it when you are ready to eat. This saves time and makes serving easy!
This blog post covered how to make a delicious baked ravioli casserole. We listed the simple ingredients, outlined easy steps, and provided helpful tips. You learned about tasty variations and storage options.
I hope you feel inspired to try this dish. It’s a crowd-pleaser that offers room for creativity. Enjoy your time in the kitchen and happy cookin
