Description
Easy Cheesy Baked Ravioli is a comforting and simple Italian-inspired dish featuring layers of cheese-filled ravioli, marinara sauce, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses baked to bubbly perfection. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal that satisfies with gooey cheese and rich flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Ravioli and Sauce
- 9 oz cheese-filled ravioli (frozen or fresh)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Cheese and Seasoning
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking.
- Layer Marinara Sauce: Spread a layer of marinara sauce evenly at the bottom of a baking dish to start the flavorful base.
- Add Ravioli: Arrange half of the cheese-filled ravioli in a single layer over the sauce for even cooking.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the ravioli, adding richness and flavor.
- Add Sauce and Seasoning: Pour half of the remaining marinara sauce over the cheese. Then sprinkle the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to enhance the taste.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process with the remaining ravioli, sauce, and cheeses to build the dish.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes to allow the ravioli to cook through and flavors to meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Cool and Garnish: Let the baked ravioli cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh basil before serving to add a fresh herbal note.
Notes
- You can use fresh or frozen cheese ravioli according to convenience.
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes before baking if you like some heat.
- If you want a crispier top, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching carefully.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Substitute marinara sauce for your favorite tomato-based pasta sauce if desired.
