cheesy baked ravioli casserole Recipe

Get ready to swoon over dinner! This cheesy baked ravioli casserole is pure comfort in a dish, delivering layers of pillowy cheese ravioli, lusciously rich marinara, and a bubbling crown of golden, melty mozzarella and Parmesan. The best part? It’s a breeze to put together — no need to boil pasta or fuss with complicated steps. With just a handful of pantry staples, you’ll create a flavor-packed family favorite that’s perfect for both bustling weeknights and cozy gatherings. There’s something utterly magical about biting into molten cheese and saucy ravioli with only a crisp salad or garlic bread on the side.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a few simple ingredients to make this casserole, but each one plays a starring role, from adding savory depth to creating that signature gooey, cheesy top. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special:

• Frozen Cheese Ravioli: These little pasta pillows soak up flavor and bake up perfectly tender, so there’s zero need for pre-cooking.
• Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite jarred or homemade marinara for an aromatic, tomato-rich base that ties every layer together.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into irresistibly gooey, stretchy strands for that iconic cheese pull everyone loves.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty punch to the top and helps create a golden, bubbly crust.
• Italian Seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that gives the casserole an extra pop of classic Italian flavor.

How to Make cheesy baked ravioli casserole

Step 1: Prep the Dish and Oven

Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for that bubbly cheese action. Give your favorite baking dish a good coating of non-stick spray or a light brush of oil, so nothing sticks and cleanup is a breeze.

Step 2: Sauce and First Layer

Spoon half of the marinara sauce along the bottom of your prepared dish. This creates a saucy foundation for the cheesy baked ravioli casserole and keeps your ravioli perfectly moist as they bake.

Step 3: Ravioli and Cheese Magic

Scatter half the frozen cheese ravioli over the sauce in a snug, even layer. Sprinkle on half the mozzarella and a dusting of Italian seasoning. Every step adds cozy flavors, and the seasoning ensures the dish smells like an Italian kitchen!

Step 4: Repeat and Finish

Pour on the remaining marinara, then layer in the rest of your ravioli, mozzarella, and another pinch of Italian seasoning. Finally, let it rain Parmesan cheese across the top, setting the stage for that showstopping golden crust.

Step 5: Bake, Uncover, and Admire

Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for about 15 more minutes, or until the cheesy baked ravioli casserole is bubbling and beautifully browned on top. Let it cool for a few minutes so the layers set before you dig in!

How to Serve cheesy baked ravioli casserole

Garnishes

Brighten up your cheesy baked ravioli casserole with a shower of freshly chopped basil, parsley, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a pop of color and a little zing. A little drizzle of good olive oil never hurts, either!

Side Dishes

Pair your bubbling casserole with a crisp Caesar or Italian salad for contrast, or serve it alongside garlic bread for the ultimate comfort meal. Roasted veggies or simple sautéed greens add a fresh touch and balance the richness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual portions in mini baking dishes for a fun dinner party twist, or stack the casserole high on a platter surrounded by vibrant greens. For family-style, just bring the bubbly dish right to the table and let everyone dig in — it always feels festive!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Stash any leftover cheesy baked ravioli casserole well-covered in the refrigerator. It will stay satisfyingly delicious for 3 to 4 days, and the flavors somehow get even better as they mingle.

Freezing

Want to prep ahead? Assemble the casserole (don’t bake yet), wrap tightly, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as usual, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s hot and gooey all the way through.

Reheating

Reheat slices of cheesy baked ravioli casserole in the oven for best results—this keeps the cheese perfectly melty and the top crisp. A microwave works in a pinch for speedy lunches, but the oven wins for that just-baked texture.

FAQs

Can I use meat or spinach ravioli instead of cheese?

Definitely! Meat or spinach ravioli add their own twist and work just as well. Simply swap in your favorite flavor and let the casserole magic happen.

What’s the best way to stop the casserole from becoming watery?

Using frozen ravioli straight from the freezer (no thawing) and not overdoing the sauce helps keep the layers distinct and the casserole perfectly set.

Is it possible to add vegetables?

Absolutely! Toss in a layer of sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or diced zucchini between the ravioli layers for extra color, flavor, and nutrition.

Can I assemble cheesy baked ravioli casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can build the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Just take it out while the oven preheats, then bake as directed for an easy dinner.

How can I make this dish even more creamy?

For extra decadence, swirl a layer of ricotta cheese between the ravioli and sauce. It melts into the layers and makes the whole dish dreamy!

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dish that delivers big on flavor with minimal fuss, give this cheesy baked ravioli casserole a spot on your table. It’s warm, gooey, family-friendly, and endlessly customizable — so don’t be surprised when everyone asks for seconds!

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