Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my easy cheesy baked ravioli recipe! This dish is a total lifesaver on those busy weekdays when you crave something comforting yet don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma of bubbling cheese and marinara filled my home, and I couldn’t wait to dive in! It’s so simple to throw together—just layer, bake, and voila! You’ve got a delicious meal that’ll impress anyone at your dinner table. Plus, it’s vegetarian, so it’s perfect for those meat-free nights. Trust me, this baked ravioli is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying! You’ll want to make it over and over again!
Ingredients List
Gather these simple ingredients to whip up my easy cheesy baked ravioli recipe! You won’t need anything fancy, just good ol’ comfort food staples:
- 1 package (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli: The star of the show! You can use any brand you like, but I love the ones stuffed with a rich blend of ricotta and mozzarella.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: Store-bought is perfectly fine, but if you have time, make your own for an extra flavor boost! It’s all about that tangy goodness.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: This is what makes it ooey-gooey! Feel free to use part-skim for a lighter option.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp and nutty flavor. Trust me, don’t skip this; it’s a game-changer!
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A sprinkle of this mix will elevate the flavors and give it that classic Italian touch.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: A drizzle on top helps everything get golden and delicious while baking.
That’s it! You’re just a few ingredients away from cheesy bliss!
How to Prepare the Easy Cheesy Baked Ravioli Recipe
Alright, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how to prepare this mouthwatering easy cheesy baked ravioli! This is where the magic happens, and I promise it’s as straightforward as pie—well, ravioli pie, that is! Just follow these steps, and you’ll be savoring every cheesy bite in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven: First things first, set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures everything cooks evenly and gets that golden finish.
- Start with the sauce: Grab a baking dish (a 9×13 inch works great) and spread half of that delicious marinara sauce evenly across the bottom. This will keep the ravioli nice and moist as they bake!
- Add the ravioli: Layer half of the frozen cheese ravioli on top of the sauce. Don’t worry about them being perfectly arranged; they’ll all get cozy together in the oven.
- Cheese it up: Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan cheese over the ravioli. Oh, the cheese layer is where the real excitement begins!
- Repeat the layers: Now, repeat the process with the remaining ingredients. Start with the rest of the marinara, then the ravioli, and finish with the rest of the cheeses. It’s like a cheesy lasagna but with ravioli!
- Drizzle olive oil: A little drizzle of olive oil on top will help everything bake beautifully. It’s all about that golden crust!
- Cover and bake: Cover your baking dish with foil and pop it in the oven for 25 minutes. This helps steam the ravioli, making them tender and delicious.
- Finish baking: After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until everything is bubbly and the cheese is melted to perfection. You’ll want to keep an eye on it during this last bit!
And just like that, you’ve created a cheesy masterpiece that’s ready to be devoured! Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, and watch everyone fall in love with this dish!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to comfort food, my easy cheesy baked ravioli recipe delivers not just on flavor but also on a decent balance of nutrition. Each serving—about a quarter of the dish—packs in approximately 400 calories, which is pretty reasonable for a cheesy indulgence! You’ll find around 18 grams of protein in there, thanks to the cheese and ravioli, making it quite filling.
In terms of fat, you’re looking at about 18 grams, with 10 grams being saturated fat. It does have some carbs—around 45 grams—so it’s a hearty meal! Plus, there’s about 3 grams of fiber, which is always a nice bonus. Just keep in mind the sodium content is around 800 mg, so if you’re watching your salt intake, you might want to adjust accordingly. Overall, this dish is a satisfying choice that won’t leave you feeling guilty!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Rich, cheesy flavor that satisfies every comfort food craving.
- Vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for meatless meals.
- Can easily be customized with your favorite toppings or sauces.
- Leftovers are just as delicious, so you can enjoy it again!
Tips for Success
To make sure your easy cheesy baked ravioli turns out perfectly every time, here are my top tips! First, don’t skip the step of covering the dish with foil during the first part of baking. This helps steam the ravioli, keeping them tender and flavorful. Also, for an extra flavor boost, consider using fresh herbs, like basil or oregano, sprinkled between the layers. If you want to mix things up, try adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the layers for added nutrition and texture.
Another pro tip? Let the dish cool for a few minutes before diving in. This not only makes it easier to serve but also allows the cheese to set a bit, making those cheesy slices hold together just right! Trust me, a little patience goes a long way!
Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up with my easy cheesy baked ravioli recipe, there are so many delicious ways to customize it! For a flavor twist, try using alfredo sauce instead of marinara—it creates a creamy, decadent version that’s to die for! You can also switch out the cheese; try a blend of mozzarella and gouda for a smoky flavor that adds depth.
Feeling adventurous? Toss in some sautéed veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach between the layers for an extra nutritional punch. You can even add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage for a meaty version. And if you’re a spice lover, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a kick! The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative with your ingredients!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving my easy cheesy baked ravioli recipe, there are so many delightful sides that can take your meal to the next level! I love pairing it with a fresh garden salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette; the crispness of the greens balances out the richness of the ravioli perfectly. You could also serve it with garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette for that ultimate comfort experience—who doesn’t love dipping bread into cheesy sauce?
If you’re feeling a bit fancy, a side of roasted veggies—like asparagus or Brussels sprouts—can add a beautiful touch to your plate and a pop of color. And don’t forget about dessert! A light lemon sorbet or a slice of chocolate cake makes for a lovely finish after such a hearty meal. Trust me, your family and friends will be raving about this combination!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers from my easy cheesy baked ravioli recipe? You’re in luck because this dish stores beautifully! To keep it fresh, let it cool completely, then transfer any uneaten ravioli to an airtight container. It’ll stay good in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy nights!
When you’re ready to enjoy those cheesy leftovers, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the ravioli in a baking dish and cover it with foil to keep it from drying out. Heat it for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s warmed through and bubbly again. You can also microwave individual portions, but I recommend using the oven for that amazing crispy cheese topping. Just be careful, it can get hot! Enjoy your cheesy goodness all over again!
For more delicious pasta recipes, check out this creamy chicken pasta recipe or this baked ziti recipe!
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Easy Cheesy Baked Ravioli Recipe: 7 Steps to Comfort Bliss
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delicious baked ravioli dish with cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 package (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a baking dish, spread half of the marinara sauce.
- Add half of the ravioli on top of the sauce.
- Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan on top.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
- Drizzle olive oil over the top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly.
Notes
- Use fresh or homemade sauce for better flavor.
- Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of dish
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: easy cheesy baked ravioli recipe
