Recipes

Baked Ravioli Casserole Recipe 🍝

 

 

Ingredients:

  • 1 bag frozen ravioli (whichever kind you prefer), cooked per directions on the bag
  • 1 jar pasta sauce
  • About 1 cup heavy cream or half and half
  • Shredded mozzarella
  • Seasonings to taste (e.g., garlic powder, Italian seasoning, black pepper)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Prepare Ravioli:
    • Cook the frozen ravioli according to the instructions on the package. Drain and set aside.
  3. Create Sauce Mixture:
    • In a bowl, mix together the pasta sauce and heavy cream (or half and half) until well combined. Add seasonings to taste, such as garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and black pepper.
  4. Layer the Casserole Dish:
    • In a casserole dish, layer the bottom with a thin coat of the sauce mixture to prevent sticking.
  5. Assemble Layers:
    • Make alternating layers in the casserole dish:
      • Place a layer of cooked ravioli.
      • Spoon some of the sauce mixture over the ravioli.
      • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top of the sauce.
  6. Repeat Layers:
    • Repeat the layering process until you run out of ingredients, ensuring the top layer is covered with sauce and shredded mozzarella.
  7. Bake in the Oven:
    • Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden.
  8. Broil for a Crispy Top:
    • If desired, set the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes to brown the cheese on top, giving it a delicious crispy finish.
  9. Serve and Enjoy! 🍝
    • Remove the baked ravioli casserole from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and then serve. This quick, easy, and budget-friendly dish looks and tastes impressive, making it a perfect go-to meal for any day.
  10. Tips:
    • Customize the dish by adding cooked ground beef, sausage, or vegetables between the layers.
    • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving for a burst of color and added flavor.
    • Experiment with different types of ravioli to switch up the flavors.
  1. Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
    • Yes, you can use fresh ravioli in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as fresh pasta may cook faster.
  2. What type of pasta sauce works best for this recipe?
    • Any pasta sauce of your choice will work. Whether it’s marinara, tomato basil, or arrabbiata, pick your favorite for a personalized touch.
  3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
    • Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Parmesan, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses to suit your taste.
  4. How do I prevent the top layer of cheese from becoming too crispy during broiling?
    • Keep a close eye on the casserole while broiling and remove it from the oven as soon as the cheese reaches your desired level of browning.
  5. Can I assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake it later?
    • Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it. Bake it when you’re ready, but you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
  6. How can I make the dish more nutritious?
    • Add vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or diced tomatoes between the layers for added nutrition and flavor.
  7. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
    • Absolutely! Skip the meat and choose a vegetable-based or cheese-filled ravioli for a delicious vegetarian version.
  8. What sides go well with baked ravioli casserole?
    • A simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables are excellent choices to complement this dish.
  9. How long can I store leftovers, and how should I reheat them?
    • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
  10. Can I freeze the baked ravioli casserole?
    • While it can be frozen, the texture of the pasta may change. If freezing, let it cool completely, wrap it well, and freeze. Thaw before reheating.
  11. What size casserole dish should I use?
    • A standard 9×13-inch casserole dish works well for this recipe.
  12. Can I make this recipe without heavy cream or half and half?
    • You can use milk as a lighter alternative, but keep in mind that it may result in a slightly less creamy texture.
  13. Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?
    • Yes, you can use gluten-free ravioli and ensure the pasta sauce is gluten-free. Check labels to confirm gluten-free status.
  14. Can I add meat to the recipe?
    • Absolutely! Cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded rotisserie chicken can be added between the layers for a heartier version.