Ravioli Lasagna Bake
Ravioli Lasagna Bake is a comforting, cheesy, and family-friendly dish that layers store-bought cheese ravioli with ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan cheeses, marinara sauce, and fresh herbs. This easy bake combines the flavors of classic lasagna with less prep time, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that’s hearty, satisfying, and delicious.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free ravioli)
Pasta
- 1 package (about 20 oz) cheese-filled ravioli (fresh or frozen)
Sauce
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Cheese Mixture
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg, beaten
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Toppings
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Prepare the Sauce: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the finely chopped garlic and onion until fragrant and soft, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer gently while you move on to the next steps, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Mix the Ricotta Layer: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese with the beaten egg, chopped fresh basil, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a creamy, well-seasoned cheese layer that will firm up during baking.
- Layer the Ingredients: Lightly grease a baking dish. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of ravioli over the sauce, followed by dollops of the ricotta mixture spread evenly. Sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella on top. Repeat layering with remaining ravioli, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella, finishing with a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake to Perfection: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen ravioli; if cooking fresh ravioli beforehand, cook until just tender to maintain layer texture.
- Do not boil pre-cooked ravioli to avoid chewy texture.
- Let the bake rest after baking to ensure it slices cleanly.
- Cover tightly with foil during baking to retain moisture.
- Sprinkle fresh basil on top after baking for vibrant flavor and color.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6 of casserole)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: ravioli, lasagna bake, cheesy bake, Italian casserole, easy dinner, family meal, gluten free, ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, marinara sauce