Prepare to Savor a sensational dinner that’s bound to win hearts at your table. This baked ravioli dish boasts the irresistible allure of gooey mozzarella, Savory Parmesan, and a delectable meat sauce.
Baked pasta creations epitomize the essence of comfort cuisine. They’re the go-to solution for those hectic weeknight dinners that please both young and old. Make sure to include my spaghetti, casserole, and baked ziti in your dinner plans for the upcoming week – you’ll be thrilled you did.
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Recipe for Cheesy Baked Ravioli
It’s a Wednesday night, and you’re on the hunt for a hassle-free dinner that’ll win the kids over. Look no further! Just like my other baked pasta creations, this ravioli dish marries simplicity with scrumptiousness. It’s not only incredibly easy to assemble but also immensely satisfying. In fact, it comes with a warning – it’s so good, you might find yourself whipping up a batch in the dead of night. It’s the ultimate comfort food, and you absolutely have to give it a shot!
What’s even better is that you can tailor the ingredients in this recipe to suit whatever’s hiding in your fridge. You can choose any type of ravioli you fancy; I went with four-cheese. Then, it’s all about layering with your preferred pasta sauce, a dash of homemade Italian seasoning, cheese, and into the oven it goes! With just a 20-minute baking time, though it might feel like an eternity when the divine aroma fills your kitchen. And when you catch a glimpse of that beautifully bubbly, golden-brown cheese on top? Game over. Sorry, kids, this one’s all mine. Baked ravioli is simply irresistible.
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Baked Ravioli recipe video:
Ingredients:
- 1 package (about 20 ounces) of fresh or frozen cheese ravioli
- 2 cups of marinara sauce
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized oven-safe dish.
Step 2: Cook the Ravioli:
A big saucepan of salted water should be brought to a boil. Cook the ravioli according to the package instructions until they are just slightly undercooked. They will continue to cook in the oven, so you don’t want them to become too soft. Drain the ravioli and set them aside.
Step 3: Layer the Ravioli:
Cover the bottom of the baking dish with a thin layer of marinara sauce. Place a single layer of cooked ravioli on top of the sauce.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasonings:
Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the ravioli. Dry basil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Repeat Layers:
Create another layer with the remaining ravioli, followed by the remaining marinara sauce, and top it off with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Bake:
Cover the baking dish with aluminium foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Broil for Crispy Top (Optional):
If you’d like a golden, crispy top, remove the foil and broil the ravioli for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve:
Remove the baked ravioli from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious homemade baked ravioli!
This baked ravioli recipe is a crowd-pleaser and makes for a comforting, cheesy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Baked Ravioli Nutrition Facts:
| Serving Size | 1/6th of the recipe |
| Calories | Approximately 370 kcal |
| Total Fat | 16g |
| – Saturated Fat | 7g |
| – Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 45mg |
| Sodium | 950mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 36g |
| – Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| – Sugars | 5g |
| Protein | 19g |
Health benefits:
- Good Source of Protein: With approximately 19g of protein per serving, baked ravioli provides a substantial amount of this essential nutrient. Protein is crucial for muscle repair, tissue maintenance, and overall body function.
- Moderate in Calories: Each serving of baked ravioli contains approximately 370 calories, making it a satisfying meal without excessive calorie intake. With proper portion control, it can fit into a balanced diet without compromising on taste or satisfaction.
- Rich in Calcium: The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese in baked ravioli provides a good amount of calcium. Ensuring your body gets enough calcium is like giving your bones and teeth a strong, supportive hug while also keeping your muscles and nerves happy and functioning smoothly.
- Fiber from Tomato Sauce: The marinara sauce used in baked ravioli contains dietary fiber from tomatoes. Fiber aids in digestion, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and contributes to a feeling of fullness, promoting overall digestive health.
- Versatile Ingredient Options: Baked ravioli allows for flexibility in ingredient choices, giving you the freedom to customize based on your preferences and dietary needs. You can opt for whole wheat ravioli for added fiber or incorporate vegetable-based sauces for extra vitamins and minerals.
Here’s how to store, reheat, and repurpose your leftover Baked Ravioli:
Storage Instructions:
Keep your Baked Ravioli fresh for later enjoyment with these tips:
- Refrigeration: Store any remaining ravioli in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. Enjoy within 3-4 days for the best taste.
- Freezing: For longer storage, let the ravioli cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Label with the date and enjoy within 1-2 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating Instructions:
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover Baked Ravioli, try these simple reheating methods:
- Stovetop: Heat a portion of ravioli in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or marinara sauce to prevent sticking. Cover it up and let it warm through, giving it a stir every now and then.
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the desired amount of ravioli in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
- Microwave: Transfer a portion of ravioli to a microwave-safe dish. Cover it up with a damp paper towel to keep it nice and moist. Heat on high in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.
Reuse Instructions:
Get creative with your leftover Baked Ravioli:
- Ravioli Lasagna: Layer leftover ravioli with extra marinara sauce, cheese, and your favorite veggies or meats to make a tasty ravioli lasagna. Bake until bubbly and golden.
- Ravioli Soup: Add leftover ravioli to broth with diced veggies and herbs for a hearty ravioli soup. Simmer until veggies are tender and flavors meld.
- Ravioli Salad: Toss cold leftover ravioli with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, olives, and Italian dressing for a refreshing ravioli salad. Top with grated Parmesan and croutons for extra flavor and crunch.
Enjoy your homemade Baked Ravioli, savoring every cheesy, comforting bite of this classic Italian dish.
How to Serve Baked Ravioli
Without the lovely company of breadsticks and a crisp salad, no Italian supper is truly complete! These are some of my absolute favorite sides, and they will undoubtedly improve your entire dinner experience. What’s the nicest thing about this baked ravioli recipe? It’s so simple that you’ll have plenty of time to prepare these delectable side dishes. Hooray for quick and delicious dishes.
FAQ’s
Q. What is baked ravioli?
Baked ravioli is a delicious dish where ravioli (either fresh or frozen) is layered with marinara sauce, cheese, and herbs, then baked in the oven until bubbly and golden. It’s an easy and comforting twist on traditional ravioli.
Q. Can I use frozen ravioli for baked ravioli?
Yes, frozen ravioli works great for baked ravioli. There is no requirement to defrost it prior to baking. Simply layer it with sauce and cheese, then bake according to the instructions provided. It will cook thoroughly in the oven.
Q. What kind of sauce should I use for baked ravioli?
Most people use marinara sauce, but you can get creative! Try Alfredo sauce, pesto, or even a combination of your favorite sauces. A creamy sauce pairs wonderfully with the ravioli, but tomato-based sauces are classic.
Q. How long do I bake ravioli?
Baked ravioli typically needs to bake for about 25-30 minutes at 375°F (190°C). You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the ravioli are golden.
Q. Can I make baked ravioli ahead of time?
Yes, You can assemble the baked ravioli in advance, cover it, and store it in the fridge for a day or two before baking. If you are preparing it from a cold state, simply extend the baking time by a few additional minutes.
Q. Can I make baked ravioli vegetarian?
Absolutely, For a vegetarian version, simply use cheese-filled ravioli and pair it with a marinara sauce. You can also add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor.
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