Experience the heartwarming layers of Baked Ravioli, a hearty and satisfying dish that combines the classic flavors of cheese-filled ravioli with a rich marinara sauce and savory ground beef. This baked version offers a delightful twist on traditional pasta, resulting in a bubbly, golden-crusted casserole that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. The addition of herbs and garlic infuses the dish with aromatic warmth, making every bite a deliciously comforting experience.
Baked Ravioli: A Cozy Pasta Casserole
There’s something truly special about a dish that can be both easy to prepare and impressively delicious. This Baked Ravioli recipe encapsulates the joy of Italian cooking with its robust flavors and cheesy goodness. It’s a versatile dish that allows for customization based on your preferences or what you have on hand, ensuring that it will become a go-to in your culinary repertoire.
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 22 minutes
Servings: 6
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Casserole dish
- Strainer
- Frying pan
Baked Ravioli
Serve it hot from the oven and watch as it becomes the highlight of your meal, perfect for a cozy night in or a festive gathering. Enjoy the blend of cheesy pasta, savory beef, and aromatic herbs that make this recipe a beloved comfort food.
Ingredients:
- 1 25 oz. package frozen cheese ravioli
- 1 24 oz. jar marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 tsp. dried basil
- 1 tbsp. minced garlic
- 1/2 tsp. dried parsley
- 8 oz. shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Prepare a casserole dish by lightly spraying it with cooking spray.
- In a frying pan, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Once cooked, drain the excess fat.
- Add 1 cup of the marinara sauce to the beef along with the minced garlic and dried basil. Stir to combine, then remove from heat and set aside.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the frozen cheese ravioli according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain the ravioli and return them to the pot.
- Stir in the remaining marinara sauce with the ravioli, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- In the prepared casserole dish, layer half of the sauced ravioli on the bottom. Spread the beef mixture evenly over the ravioli, then sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top.
- Layer the remaining ravioli over the cheese and beef layers. Top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Sprinkle dried parsley over the top for added color and flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and beginning to brown.
- For a perfectly browned top, turn on the broiler for the last 2 minutes of baking, watching closely to prevent burning.
This Baked Ravioli is a true celebration of flavors and textures, with each layer offering its own unique contribution to the dish.