Name: Easy Baked Ravioli Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Ingredients: 1 package (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

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When you’re looking for a comforting, satisfying meal that requires minimal effort but delivers big on flavor, a Baked Ravioli Casserole is the answer. It’s one of those dishes that’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a homemade dinner but don’t have the time (or energy) to cook something elaborate. This casserole is incredibly easy to put together—frozen ravioli, marinara sauce, cheese, and a few extra ingredients combine to create a hearty, cheesy dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.

What makes this recipe a true lifesaver is that you don’t even need to boil the ravioli beforehand. Everything bakes together in one dish, making cleanup a breeze. It’s also super customizable. You can switch up the type of ravioli, add in veggies, or sneak in some extra protein by layering in ground beef or sausage. The result is always a warm, bubbly, cheesy casserole that your whole family will love.

This recipe became a favorite in my house after a long day when I wanted something quick and easy, but also delicious and comforting. I grabbed a bag of frozen ravioli, a jar of marinara sauce, and some mozzarella cheese—and this casserole was born. Since then, it’s become a go-to dish when I’m short on time but want a meal that feels a little special. Plus, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd, so I often make it when we have guests over or when I need something simple for a potluck. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making it on repeat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Ridiculously easy: With just a few simple ingredients and no pre-cooking required, this is the perfect dinner for busy nights.
Super cheesy: Layers of melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese make this casserole a cheesy, gooey delight.
Kid-friendly: Kids love ravioli, and this casserole is packed with flavors that will have them asking for seconds.
Customizable: You can switch up the ravioli (cheese, spinach, or meat), add extra veggies, or even mix in ground beef or sausage.
Feeds a crowd: This recipe is perfect for family dinners or potlucks, and it makes excellent leftovers.

Preparation Time and Servings

Total time: 45 minutes (10 minutes prep, 35 minutes bake)
Servings: 6-8 servings
Nutrition per serving: 450 calories, 20g fat, 45g carbs, 25g protein

Ingredients:

1 (25 oz) bag frozen ravioli (cheese, spinach, or meat)
4 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish, optional)

Optional Add-ins:

1 lb ground beef, Italian sausage, or ground turkey (cooked and crumbled)
1 cup baby spinach or zucchini slices
1 cup ricotta cheese (for an extra creamy layer)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent the casserole from sticking. This will also add a bit of extra flavor to the dish.

Step 2: Layer the Marinara Sauce. Spread about 1 cup of the marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of the greased baking dish. This creates a saucy base that helps prevent the ravioli from sticking to the bottom while baking.

Step 3: Add the First Layer of Ravioli. Place half of the frozen ravioli in an even layer over the marinara sauce. You don’t need to thaw the ravioli; it will cook perfectly in the oven as the casserole bakes. If you’re using cheese or spinach ravioli, either one will work well in this recipe.

Step 4: Add the Cheese and Seasoning. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the ravioli, followed by half of the grated Parmesan cheese. If you’re adding ricotta for extra creaminess, dollop spoonfuls of it over the ravioli. Then, sprinkle half of the Italian seasoning and garlic powder over the cheese layer to boost the flavor of the dish.

Step 5: Add the Remaining Sauce and Ravioli. Pour another 1-2 cups of marinara sauce over the cheese layer, making sure to spread it evenly. Then, add the remaining frozen ravioli in another layer on top of the sauce. Make sure all the ravioli are covered in sauce so they cook evenly and stay moist.

Step 6: Top with the Final Layer of Cheese. Finish the casserole by sprinkling the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. This will create a golden, bubbly, cheesy crust once the casserole is baked. If you like a little extra flavor, sprinkle some more Italian seasoning on top as well.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the casserole are golden brown.

Step 8: Let It Rest and Garnish. Once the casserole is done baking, let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the layers to set. This makes it easier to slice and serve. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if you like, for a pop of color and freshness.

How to Serve:

This Baked Ravioli Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, and it pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few serving ideas to complete your meal:

With a side salad: Serve the casserole with a simple green salad, like a Caesar salad or mixed greens with balsamic vinaigrette, to balance out the richness of the dish.
With garlic bread: You can’t go wrong with garlic bread or warm, crusty bread for dipping into the extra marinara sauce.
As a potluck dish: This casserole travels well, making it a great option for potlucks, family gatherings, or dinner parties. Just cover the dish with foil to keep it warm.

Additional Tips for Success:

Use your favorite ravioli: This recipe works with any type of frozen ravioli, whether it’s cheese, spinach, or meat-filled. You can even experiment with different flavors like mushroom or lobster ravioli for a gourmet twist.
No need to pre-cook the ravioli: One of the best things about this recipe is that the frozen ravioli goes straight into the casserole dish—no boiling required. It saves time and makes this dish extra easy.
Add veggies for extra nutrition: If you want to sneak in some extra veggies, layer fresh spinach, zucchini slices, or roasted bell peppers between the ravioli layers. The vegetables will cook down in the sauce and add even more flavor and nutrition to the dish.
Make it meaty: For a heartier casserole, brown 1 lb of ground beef, sausage, or turkey, and layer it between the ravioli. This adds protein and makes the casserole even more filling.
Let the casserole rest: After baking, let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese and sauce to set, making it easier to slice and serve.

Recipe Variations:

Cheesy Spinach Ravioli Bake: Use spinach and cheese ravioli, and add a layer of fresh spinach between the ravioli for extra greens. You can also mix ricotta with the spinach for an even creamier filling.
Meat Lover’s Ravioli Casserole: Add a layer of browned Italian sausage or ground beef between the ravioli layers. For even more flavor, use meat-filled ravioli.
Vegetarian Ravioli Casserole: Use cheese or spinach ravioli and add layers of roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers for a hearty, meat-free option.
Pesto Ravioli Bake: Swap out the marinara sauce for basil pesto, and layer the ravioli with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. The pesto adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor to the dish.

FAQ:

Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen? Yes, you can! If you’re using fresh ravioli, reduce the baking time by 5-10 minutes since fresh ravioli cooks faster than frozen.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it with foil, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes of baking time if the casserole is going into the oven straight from the fridge.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Can I freeze this casserole? Yes! You can freeze the unbaked casserole by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. You can also freeze leftovers and reheat them later.
Can I use homemade marinara sauce? Of course! If you have homemade marinara sauce on hand, feel free to use it in this recipe. It will add even more flavor and freshness to the casserole.

Conclusion:

This Easy Baked Ravioli Casserole is everything you want in a weeknight dinner—simple, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It’s a dish that feels special enough for a family gathering or potluck but is easy enough to whip up any day of the week. The layers of tender ravioli, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese make this casserole a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, with endless customization options, you can make it your own by adding veggies, meat, or different sauces.

I can’t wait to see how your ravioli casserole turns out! Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or bringing it to a party, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your creations with me on social media, and enjoy this comforting, delicious meal with your loved ones. Happy cooking!

Easy Baked Ravioli Casserole