Baked Ravioli Casserole Recipe

 If you're looking for a meal that's cozy, indulgent, and incredibly easy to make, Baked Ravioli Casserole checks all the boxes. This dish blends rich, cheesy ravioli with flavorful marinara sauce, gooey melted cheese, and a hint of herbs to create a comforting classic your family will love. The best part? You hardly need any prep time—just layer everything in a dish, pop it in the oven, and dinner is served. It’s like lasagna’s fuss-free cousin and perfect for a busy weeknight or a casual dinner with friends.

Ingredients

For this hearty casserole, you'll need just a handful of ingredients:

• 1 (25 oz) package of frozen or fresh cheese ravioli (or your preferred filling, such as spinach or meat)
• 1 (24 oz) jar of marinara sauce (or homemade if you're feeling adventurous)
• 1 cup of ricotta cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
• Non-stick cooking spray or olive oil for greasing

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil.

2. Prepare the Sauce
   Pour your marinara sauce into a mixing bowl. Stir in the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using) to amp up the flavor.

3. Layer the Casserole
   Spread about 1/2 cup of the marinara sauce mixture on the bottom of the baking dish. Arrange a single layer of ravioli on top of the sauce. Make sure the ravioli are evenly spread and not overlapping too much.

4. Add the Cheese Layers
   Spoon half the ricotta cheese (if using) over the ravioli and gently spread to create a thin layer. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan on top. Then, pour about 1/3 of the marinara sauce over the cheese layer.

5. Repeat Layers
   Repeat the process to create another layer of ravioli, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and sauce. Finish with a final layer of sauce, making sure the top is fully covered. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the sauce for a golden, cheesy topping.

6. Bake the Casserole
   Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

7. Garnish and Serve
   Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve and enjoy!

Tips for Customization

• Protein Boost: Add cooked Italian sausage, ground beef, or shredded rotisserie chicken to the layers for a heartier meal.
• Veggie Twist: Toss in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Sauce Swap: Try Alfredo sauce for a creamy, indulgent variation or use a vodka sauce for a more sophisticated flavor.
• Cheese Lovers: Incorporate more cheese varieties, like provolone or fontina, for added depth.
• Meal Prep-Friendly: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it with foil, and pop it in the fridge. Bake it when you're ready to serve.

How to Serve

This Baked Ravioli Casserole is perfectly satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a crisp salad or garlic bread makes it a meal to remember. Try it with a Caesar salad or roasted vegetables for some balance, or add a glass of red wine like Chianti for a true Italian-inspired dinner.

This casserole is sure to become a go-to recipe for your busy weeknights or those nights when comfort food is all you need. It’s the kind of recipe that warms both your kitchen and your heart—and it couldn’t be easier to make! Enjoy!