Description
This Cheesy Baked Ravioli Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish packed with layers of pasta, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this hearty casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 (20 oz) package cheese ravioli (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven – Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Cook the Meat (If Using) – Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Add ground beef or sausage, breaking apart with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain excess grease and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Layer the Casserole – Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the baking dish. Arrange half of the ravioli in a single layer. Add half of the ricotta, cooked meat (if using), mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat the Layers – Add another layer of sauce, remaining ravioli, ricotta, meat, and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake the Casserole – Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve – Let cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Notes
- Meatless Option: Substitute meat with mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
- Spicy Variation: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage.
- Cheese Variation: Try provolone or fontina for a different flavor.
- Alfredo Twist: Swap marinara for Alfredo sauce for a creamy version
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
- Category: pasta , dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: baked ravioli, cheesy casserole, pasta bake, easy dinner, comfort food