Cheesy Baked Ravioli Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender, pillowy ravioli with a rich marinara sauce, layers of melted cheese, and a golden, bubbly topping. This family-friendly dish is a perfect go-to for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or cozy gatherings. Easy to assemble and customizable with your favorite fillings, this casserole is an irresistible twist on traditional lasagna, offering all the flavor with less hassle. Whether you use fresh, frozen, or store-bought ravioli, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a hearty and satisfying meal that’s sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Its versatility makes it ideal for any occasion, while the combination of melted mozzarella and tangy marinara provides a crowd-pleasing flavor. Serve it with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal that feels like a warm hug. Leftovers? They taste even better the next day!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines the classic flavors of Italian pasta dishes in an easy-to-make casserole format.
- Layers of gooey, melted cheese create a decadent and indulgent experience.
- Versatile enough to customize with meat, vegetables, or different sauces.
- Requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Feeds a crowd and reheats beautifully, making it a great choice for meal prep.
Preparation Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Serving Size: 1 heaping scoop
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 420
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 7g
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 package (20–24 ounces) fresh or frozen cheese ravioli (or any preferred variety)
- 3 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 pound cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken
- 1 cup sautéed spinach or diced vegetables (e.g., zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers)
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Additional grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Ravioli
- Pre-Cook the Ravioli: If using frozen ravioli, cook according to package instructions, but reduce the cooking time by 1–2 minutes to keep them slightly firm (al dente). Drain and set aside. If using fresh ravioli, skip this step as it will cook fully in the casserole.
Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a light coat of olive oil.
- Layer the Ingredients:
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Arrange a single layer of ravioli over the sauce, ensuring they don’t overlap too much.
- Dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese over the ravioli and spread it gently.
- Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes, if using.
- Add 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of Parmesan over the ricotta layer.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of marinara sauce topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake the Casserole
- Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Uncover for Golden Top: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown.
Serve
- Cool and Garnish: Allow the casserole to cool for 5–10 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese before serving.
Ingredient Background
- Ravioli: Available fresh, frozen, or even made from scratch, ravioli comes in various flavors such as cheese, spinach, or meat. Choose your favorite for this casserole.
- Marinara Sauce: A simple tomato-based sauce flavored with garlic, herbs, and spices forms the base of this dish. Use a high-quality store-bought version or make it homemade for extra flavor.
- Ricotta Cheese: Adds creaminess and a subtle, slightly sweet flavor that balances the acidity of the tomato sauce.
- Mozzarella and Parmesan: The combination of mozzarella’s gooey meltability and Parmesan’s sharp, salty kick creates a perfect cheese layer.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary adds a classic Italian flavor to the dish.
Technique Tips
- Cook Ravioli Al Dente: Slightly undercooking the ravioli prevents them from becoming mushy in the oven.
- Even Layers: Spread each layer evenly for consistent flavors in every bite.
- Cheese Topping: For an extra golden and crispy top, broil the casserole for 1–2 minutes after baking.
- Customizable Add-Ins: Incorporate cooked meats, sautéed vegetables, or fresh herbs to make the dish your own.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
- Individual Servings: Assemble the casserole in small ramekins or oven-safe bowls for single-serving portions.
- Skillet Bake: Use a large, oven-safe skillet to prepare the casserole for a rustic, one-pan presentation.
- Layered Ravioli Lasagna: Treat the ravioli as lasagna sheets for a creative spin on the classic dish.
Additional Tips for Success
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add 5–10 minutes to the baking time if cooking directly from the fridge.
- Leftover Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Boost the Flavor: Add a layer of pesto, Alfredo sauce, or a dollop of cream cheese to elevate the richness of the dish.
Recipe Variations
- Meaty Ravioli Casserole: Add layers of cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded chicken for a hearty version.
- Vegetarian Delight: Incorporate spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrients and flavor.
- White Sauce Version: Replace marinara with Alfredo or béchamel sauce for a creamy, indulgent twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add spicy Italian sausage or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a zesty version.
Freezing and Storage
- Freezing the Casserole: Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
- Freezing Leftovers: Cut leftovers into individual portions, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
- Refrigeration: Store baked casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Healthier Twist Ideas
- Whole Wheat Ravioli: Swap regular ravioli for whole wheat or gluten-free varieties to suit dietary needs.
- Low-Fat Cheese: Use part-skim ricotta and reduced-fat mozzarella to cut down on calories.
- Add More Veggies: Layer sautéed spinach, kale, or broccoli to boost fiber and nutrients.
Serving Suggestions for Events
- Potluck Favorite: Transport the casserole in a disposable baking dish for easy serving and cleanup.
- Family Dinner: Pair with garlic bread and a fresh Caesar salad for a complete meal.
- Holiday Gatherings: Garnish with festive basil leaves and red pepper flakes for a holiday-themed touch.
Special Equipment
- 9×13-Inch Baking Dish: Perfect size for assembling and baking the casserole.
- Aluminum Foil: Ensures even baking and prevents the cheese from over-browning.
- Offset Spatula: Helpful for spreading ricotta and sauce evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use homemade ravioli?
Absolutely! Homemade ravioli adds a personal touch and works beautifully in this casserole.
2. Do I need to cook the ravioli first?
If using frozen ravioli, par-cook them to prevent overcooking. Fresh ravioli can go straight into the casserole.
3. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free ravioli and a gluten-free marinara sauce to adapt this recipe for gluten sensitivities.
4. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15–20 minutes or microwave individual portions until warmed through.
5. Can I add meat to this recipe?
Yes, cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken are excellent additions for a heartier casserole.
6. Can I use jarred Alfredo sauce?
Definitely! Alfredo sauce provides a creamy alternative to marinara for a rich and indulgent casserole.
7. What vegetables work well in this dish?
Spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, or even roasted eggplant are fantastic choices.
8. How can I achieve a crispy cheese topping?
Broil the casserole for 1–2 minutes after baking to create a golden, bubbly cheese crust.
Conclusion
Cheesy Baked Ravioli Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to prepare and endlessly customizable. With its rich layers of pasta, marinara, and gooey cheese, it’s a dish that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions, this casserole brings everyone to the table with its delicious flavors and inviting presentation. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with meats, vegetables, or sauces, this dish will quickly become a household favorite. Try it today, and enjoy the warmth and joy of a homemade meal everyone will love! With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s a recipe that guarantees smiles all around. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it just as delightful the next day.
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Cheesy Baked Ravioli Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 package (20–24 ounces) fresh or frozen cheese ravioli (or any preferred variety)
- 3 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 pound cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken
- 1 cup sautéed spinach or diced vegetables (e.g., zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers)
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Additional grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Prepare the Ravioli
- Pre-Cook the Ravioli: If using frozen ravioli, cook according to package instructions, but reduce the cooking time by 1–2 minutes to keep them slightly firm (al dente). Drain and set aside. If using fresh ravioli, skip this step as it will cook fully in the casserole.
Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a light coat of olive oil.
- Layer the Ingredients:
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Arrange a single layer of ravioli over the sauce, ensuring they don’t overlap too much.
- Dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese over the ravioli and spread it gently.
- Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes, if using.
- Add 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of Parmesan over the ricotta layer.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of marinara sauce topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake the Casserole
- Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Uncover for Golden Top: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown.
Serve
- Cool and Garnish: Allow the casserole to cool for 5–10 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 heaping scoop
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 7g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g