Ingredients
Scale
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