If you are craving the cozy comfort of classic Italian flavors but want a quick twist on tradition, this Ravioli Lasagna Recipe is exactly what your dinner plans need. Combining the rich, melty goodness of ravioli with the layered charm of lasagna, this dish is a delightful crowd-pleaser that feels both familiar and exciting. Every bite bursts with luscious marinara, creamy ricotta, and perfectly melted mozzarella and Parmesan, making it a perfect hearty meal for family or friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Ravioli Lasagna Recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a key role in flavor and texture. From the tender ravioli pockets to the rich cheeses and vibrant sauce, these components come together in harmony to create a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
- 12 oz fresh or frozen cheese ravioli: Using fresh gives a tender bite, but frozen works great for convenience without sacrificing flavor.
- 3 cups marinara sauce: A quality marinara is essential for that bright tomato flavor and smooth base.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds a creamy, rich texture that balances the acidity of the sauce.
- 2 cups shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create the gooey, irresistible layer we all love.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, salty punch to finish off the dish.
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs: A simple blend of oregano, basil, and thyme gives the sauce an herby depth.
How to Make Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your baking dish well to prevent the ravioli and cheese layers from sticking, ensuring a smooth serving experience later on.
Step 2: Flavor the Marinara Sauce
Warm the marinara sauce in a medium saucepan over medium heat and stir in the dried Italian herbs. This slow heat infusion helps the sauce develop a fragrant, savory profile that complements every layer of your lasagna.
Step 3: Build the First Layer
Begin with a spread of the seasoned marinara sauce on the bottom of your greased dish. Next, add half of the cheese ravioli in a single layer. Dollop half of the ricotta cheese evenly over the ravioli, then sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. This layering creates that wonderful blend of flavors and textures you expect from an indulgent lasagna.
Step 4: Repeat Layers and Finish on Top
Repeat the layering process with the remaining ravioli, ricotta, and cheeses. Pour the rest of the marinara sauce evenly on top and finish with the leftover mozzarella and Parmesan. Making sure the top layer is generously covered with cheese is key to a beautifully golden and bubbly finish.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover your dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes to ensure the filling is heated through and the flavors meld. Then remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes so the cheese on top becomes golden and bubbling. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks invitingly crispy and smells heavenly.
How to Serve Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes can elevate your Ravioli Lasagna Recipe wonderfully. A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil or parsley lends a vibrant pop of color and refreshes the rich, cheesy layers. A light drizzle of good olive oil over each serving enhances the overall mouthfeel and aroma.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple, crisp sides. Consider a fresh green salad tossed in tangy vinaigrette to contrast the richness or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli that add crunch and a touch of earthiness to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions or impressing guests, serve individual portions in small ramekins or bake in mini casserole dishes. Another fun idea is layering in a clear glass baking dish so the vibrant layers of ravioli, cheese, and sauce show through, tempting everyone before the first bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Ravioli Lasagna Recipe is fantastic the next day. Store it tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making reheated portions even more delicious.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the whole dish or individual portions in airtight containers. It freezes well for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before packaging to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to preserve that perfect melty cheese texture. You can also use a microwave for convenience, just cover loosely to avoid drying out the ravioli layers.
FAQs
Can I use frozen ravioli for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen ravioli works perfectly for this Ravioli Lasagna Recipe. Just make sure to layer them straight from frozen to avoid mushiness, since the baking process will cook them through.
What type of marinara sauce works best?
A simple, flavorful marinara with good tomato taste and balanced seasoning is ideal. You can use store-bought or homemade. Just avoid very watery sauces as they can make the dish soggy.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Yes, if you want to jazz it up, cooked ground beef or Italian sausage can be added to the marinara sauce before layering. It makes for a heartier, meatier version without losing the essence of the Ravioli Lasagna Recipe.
What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?
You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or even blended cream cheese for a similar creamy texture, though ricotta provides the lightest, most traditional lasagna feel.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing and reheating?
Definitely! It freezes and reheats well, making it great for meal prep or leftovers. Just follow the storage tips to maintain its delicious texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Ravioli Lasagna Recipe is a total game-changer in the world of comfort food. It’s quick to assemble, bursting with familiar Italian flavors, and perfect for any occasion where sharing a warm, cheesy meal is a must. Give it a try and watch it become your new weeknight favorite or party showstopper!
Print
Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Ravioli Lasagna recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional lasagna by using fresh or frozen cheese ravioli in place of pasta sheets. Layered with rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, it’s an easy-to-make, comforting baked dish perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Ravioli Lasagna Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh or frozen cheese ravioli
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and help with even cooking.
- Prepare Sauce: Heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the dried Italian herbs to infuse the sauce with additional flavor.
- First Layer: Spread a layer of the seasoned marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create a flavorful base. Layer half of the ravioli over the sauce, then dollop half of the ricotta cheese evenly across the ravioli. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses on top.
- Second Layer: Repeat the layering process using the remaining ravioli, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan, finishing with a generous layer of marinara sauce and the leftover cheeses on top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish with foil to trap moisture and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This allows the ravioli to cook through and the cheeses to melt.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes. This step helps develop a golden brown, bubbly cheese crust on top.
Notes
- Use fresh ravioli if possible for best texture, but frozen ravioli works well too.
- If you prefer, add cooked vegetables like spinach or mushrooms between layers for added nutrition.
- Let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set and make serving easier.
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce while heating.
