If you’re looking for a cozy, hearty meal that pleases a crowd and brings comforting flavors to the table, this Baked Ravioli Casserole Recipe will become your new go-to. Imagine layers of cheese-filled ravioli smothered in rich marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and a golden sprinkle of parmesan, baked to bubbly perfection. Each bite is a delightful mix of creamy, tangy, and savory notes that make this casserole irresistible. Whether it’s a weeknight supper or a weekend feast, this dish promises simplicity and satisfaction in every forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Baked Ravioli Casserole Recipe lies in its straightforward yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and texture, from the luscious marinara sauce to the blend of cheeses that create that perfect melty crown.
- 24 ounces marinara sauce: Provides a rich, tomatoey base that’s both tangy and slightly sweet, tying the casserole together.
- 25 ounces cheese-filled frozen ravioli: The star of the dish offering pockets of creamy cheese that become tender when baked.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided): Melts beautifully to give gooey, cheesy goodness throughout the layers and on top.
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty finish that crisps up in the oven for texture contrast.
- 1 Tablespoon Italian seasoning (divided): A fragrant blend of herbs that enhances the savory notes and adds depth.
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional): Offers a fresh, aromatic lift just before serving, adding color and flavor.
How to Make Baked Ravioli Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 400° F and giving a 9×13 inch baking dish a good spray with non-stick cooking spray. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Saucy Foundation
Pour about ½ cup of the marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of your baking dish. This sauce layer acts like a savory “bed” that keeps the ravioli from drying out while baking and infuses the casserole with vibrant flavor right from the base.
Step 3: Layering the First Half
Place a layer of the frozen cheese-filled ravioli over the sauce, overlapping just a little if needed to cover the dish. Top these ravioli with about 1 cup of the remaining marinara sauce, then sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella evenly across. Finally, dust half the Italian seasoning over this layer for an herby boost.
Step 4: Second Layer of Deliciousness
Add the rest of the ravioli in a single layer atop the mozzarella, then pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over this layer. Every bite will have sauce reaching it, ensuring moist and flavorful pasta throughout.
Step 5: The Cheesy Crown
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese all over the top. Then grate the parmesan cheese evenly across the mozzarella and finish with the last sprinkle of Italian seasoning. This cheesy topping is what will turn golden and bubbly in the oven.
Step 6: Cover and Bake
Cover your dish tightly with aluminum foil and pop it into the preheated oven. Bake covered for 20 minutes to let everything meld and the ravioli cook fully without drying out.
Step 7: Uncover and Finish Baking
After those 20 minutes, remove the foil and return the casserole to the oven. Bake uncovered for another 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese on top melts beautifully and starts to bubble up with golden spots.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, you can add fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of color and fragrant aroma that perfectly complements the dish.
How to Serve Baked Ravioli Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are the perfect finishing touch, adding a bright green contrast to the warm red and golden hues. You can also add a small drizzle of good olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to give guests options for an extra flavor kick.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, balancing the richness of the baked cheese and pasta. Garlic bread or a warm baguette also makes a perfect side to mop up any leftover sauce and cheese.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Baked Ravioli Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for an elegant touch, or add a colorful side of roasted vegetables to the plate for variety. For a family-style meal, bring the whole casserole to the table right out of the oven for a warm, inviting presentation that encourages sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your casserole, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making for an even tastier meal the next day.
Freezing
If you want to keep this Baked Ravioli Casserole Recipe longer, it freezes beautifully. Wrap the unbaked assembled casserole tightly with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as usual.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350° F covered with foil until warmed through to keep the ravioli tender and the cheese melty. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power, checking often to avoid overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh ravioli works wonderfully and may cook a bit faster, so watch the baking time closely to avoid overcooking.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
You can make your own blend using dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary for a similar herby flavor that complements the casserole beautifully.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, by substituting dairy-free cheese alternatives and choosing a vegan marinara sauce, you can adapt this casserole to fit a dairy-free diet while keeping the deliciousness intact.
Can I add meat to the casserole?
Definitely! Cooked ground beef, sausage, or even shredded chicken can be mixed into the marinara or layered with the ravioli for a heartier meal.
How spicy is this Baked Ravioli Casserole Recipe?
This recipe leans toward mild but flavorful. If you like a bit of heat, try adding crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce or as a garnish to spice it up.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Ravioli Casserole Recipe is such a joyful dish to make and share, whether you’re feeding family or friends. It brings together simple ingredients and big flavors in a comforting, satisfying way that never disappoints. I encourage you to give it a try soon—you might just find your new favorite weeknight winner!
Print
Baked Ravioli Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Baked Ravioli Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make Italian-inspired dish featuring layers of cheese-filled ravioli, rich marinara sauce, and plenty of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or casual get-together, this casserole offers a deliciously cheesy meal baked to bubbly perfection with a fragrant hint of Italian seasoning and fresh basil garnish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 25 ounces cheese-filled frozen ravioli
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 Tablespoon Italian seasoning (divided)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Spread Initial Sauce Layer: Pour ½ cup of the marinara sauce into the bottom of the prepared baking dish and evenly spread it to coat the surface. This creates a flavorful base for the ravioli.
- Add First Layer of Ravioli and Toppings: Arrange a layer of frozen cheese-filled ravioli over the marinara sauce, overlapping slightly if needed to cover evenly. Pour about 1 cup of the remaining marinara sauce over the ravioli layer. Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and half (½ Tablespoon) of the Italian seasoning.
- Add Second Layer of Ravioli and Sauce: Place the remaining ravioli over the mozzarella cheese and top with the remaining marinara sauce, spreading it evenly.
- Top with Cheese and Seasoning: Sprinkle the final 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, then add the grated Parmesan cheese. Finish by sprinkling the remaining ½ Tablespoon of Italian seasoning evenly over everything.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to keep moisture in and bake for 20 minutes in the preheated oven.
- Bake Uncovered to Melt Cheese: After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your cheesy baked ravioli casserole.
Notes
- Frozen ravioli can be used directly from the freezer with no need to thaw before baking.
- Feel free to add extra Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes for more flavor and heat.
- If you prefer a crispier top, broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
- Substitute marinara sauce with your favorite pasta sauce for a different flavor profile.
