If you’re craving a hearty Italian-inspired meal but want to keep things simple, this Baked Ravioli Casserole is calling your name. Imagine layers of cheese-stuffed ravioli baked with rich marinara sauce and blanketed with melty mozzarella, finished off with fresh basil. It’s a dish that feels indulgent, but it’s so easy to make, you’ll have it ready in no time. Perfect for busy nights, cozy weekends, or just when you need a little more comfort on your plate.
This casserole has all the classic Italian flavors with a twist of convenience. Store-bought ravioli saves time and offers the perfect tender bite, while a homemade or quality jarred marinara brings all the saucy goodness. And, of course, let’s not forget the cheese! With layers of mozzarella and parmesan, every bite is satisfyingly creamy and full of flavor.
In our household, this recipe has become a go-to comfort dish, especially when we’re short on prep time but craving big, hearty flavors. The best part? This casserole can be easily customized—whether it’s adding ground beef or extra veggies. Gather your favorite ingredients, and get ready to indulge in Italian-inspired bliss!
Family Favorite
The first time I made this, my family was hooked. My husband, who’s a pasta lover, couldn’t get enough of the cheesy layers, and my kids asked for seconds (a rare occurrence with anything but pizza!). It quickly became a staple in our meal rotation and a favorite dish for cozy nights in.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Ravioli Casserole
- Quick & Easy: With store-bought ravioli, it’s ready to bake in under 10 minutes.
- Irresistibly Cheesy: Layers of mozzarella, parmesan, and ricotta bring a rich, creamy texture.
- Customizable: Add meat, veggies, or extra spices to make it your own.
Tips for the Perfect Ravioli Casserole
- Choose Good-Quality Marinara: A flavorful sauce brings the whole dish together. Homemade or premium jarred marinara is best.
- Add a Meat Layer: For a heartier dish, layer cooked ground beef, sausage, or chicken with the ravioli.
- Fresh or Frozen: Fresh ravioli will cook faster, but frozen works just as well—just add a few more minutes to the bake time.
Substitutions and Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra veggies.
- Different Cheeses: Try provolone or asiago cheese for a unique flavor twist.
- Lower Carb Option: Substitute ravioli with zucchini slices for a lighter casserole.
Make a Healthier Version
- Low-Fat Cheese Options: Use part-skim ricotta and mozzarella for a lighter version.
- Whole Wheat Ravioli: Swap traditional ravioli for whole wheat to add fiber.
- Reduced Salt Sauce: Opt for low-sodium marinara to control salt levels.
And there you have it! This Baked Ravioli Casserole is a crowd-pleaser and so easy to make, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again. Don’t forget to let us know how your dish turns out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes!
Cheesy Baked Ravioli Casserole
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Description
If you’re craving a hearty Italian-inspired meal but want to keep things simple, this Baked Ravioli Casserole is calling your name. Imagine layers of cheese-stuffed ravioli baked with rich marinara sauce and blanketed with melty mozzarella, finished off with fresh basil.
Ingredients
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 16 ounce ravioli
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
Instructions
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 25
Nutrition
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 7g
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 37g
