Recipe: Ravioli Casserole
Ravioli casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining layers of pillowy pasta, rich marinara, and gooey melted cheese. This easy-to-make dish turns store-bought ravioli into a hearty, crowd-pleasing dinner that feels like a cozy, homemade meal. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for leftovers that taste even better the next day, this casserole delivers on flavor and satisfaction.
Let’s face it—sometimes, we need a meal that feels like a big, warm hug. And that’s where this Cheesy Ravioli Casserole comes in. It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence, and it hits all the right notes for a cozy family dinner or a weeknight meal when you need something quick yet satisfying.
I’ve always been a fan of casseroles for their ease, but this one stands out for its sheer comfort factor. Layers of tender ravioli drenched in rich marinara sauce and smothered in melty cheese—what’s not to love? It’s the kind of dish that you’ll find everyone asking for seconds, and it reheats like a dream, making it ideal for leftovers. (That is, if there’s any left!)
Ingredients
(Serves 6-8)
- 1 lb frozen or fresh cheese or meat ravioli
- 4 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Method:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
- Cook Ravioli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ravioli for about 2-3 minutes less than package directions, as they will finish cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Add half of the cooked ravioli in an even layer. Spread half of the remaining marinara sauce over the ravioli. Sprinkle with ¾ cup of mozzarella cheese and ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese. If using spinach, add a layer of spinach leaves on top of the sauce before adding the cheese.
- Second Layer: Repeat the layers with the remaining ravioli, sauce, and cheeses. Sprinkle the top with the Italian seasoning and garlic powder.
- Bake: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and enjoy with garlic bread or a simple green salad.
The Secret to a Great Casserole
A good casserole is all about layering, and this recipe is no exception. By layering sauce, ravioli, cheese, and optional spinach, you create a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The ravioli softens in the oven but retains just the right bite, while the sauce gets beautifully absorbed into the pasta, and the cheese turns golden and bubbly on top. Pro tip: Be sure to undercook the ravioli slightly before assembling the casserole so they don’t become mushy during baking.
Whether you’re serving it as a main course for a dinner party or simply craving comfort on a chilly evening, this Cheesy Ravioli Casserole is sure to impress. It’s one of those dishes that looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, but really, it comes together with minimal effort and a lot of heart.
So, the next time you’re looking for a meal that warms you from the inside out, give this ravioli casserole a try. Your taste buds—and your family—will thank you.
