There’s a certain satisfaction that comes with a hearty, homemade meal, especially when it’s as comforting as Baked Ravioli. Picture this: after a long day, the aroma of marinara sauce bubbling in the oven combined with the golden cheese melting to perfection fills your kitchen. It stirs up a warmth that almost feels like a hug.
I first fell in love with this dish during a cozy Sunday dinner with friends. We were all a little tired of the usual quick bites and fast food, craving something wholesome yet effortless to make. Baked Ravioli became our savior—a delightful balance of creamy mozzarella, tangy marinara, and the tender bite of ravioli, all baked until bubbly and golden.
With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of oven time, this recipe proves that gourmet results can come from simply going homemade. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together at the dinner table. Join me as we dive into this easy, crowd-pleasing dish that might just become a staple in your kitchen too!
Why is Baked Ravioli a Must-Try?
Effortless Preparation: This recipe requires just one pan and minimal cleanup—perfect for busy evenings!
Heavenly Cheese Melt: The gooey mozzarella combined with the Parmesan creates a rich, delightful topping that’s utterly irresistible.
Flavorful Layers: Each bite offers a perfect balance of marinara sauce and perfectly cooked ravioli, ensuring a burst of flavor.
Versatile Dish: Whether served as a main course or side, this dish adapts wonderfully to suit any occasion.
Family Favorite: With its cheesy goodness and comforting taste, Baked Ravioli will quickly become a beloved meal in your home!
Baked Ravioli Ingredients
For the Ravioli
• 12 oz fresh or frozen ravioli – Use your favorite flavor, but cheese-filled options pair wonderfully with the marinara.
For the Sauce
• 2 cups marinara sauce – Homemade or store-bought, this brings a hearty flavor to the baked ravioli.
For the Cheese Topping
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – The star of the dish; it melts beautifully and creates that deliciously gooey top layer.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Sprinkle for an extra layer of flavor and creamy texture that complements the mozzarella.
For the Garnish
• 1 tbsp fresh basil leaves – A fresh, aromatic finish that brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color.
For Greasing
• 1 tbsp olive oil – Lightly grease your baking dish to prevent sticking and enhance the dish’s flavor.
How to Make Baked Ravioli
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step sets the stage for perfectly baked ravioli that will be warm and delicious.
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Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil. This will help keep everything from sticking and create a lovely golden finish.
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Spread a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of the baking dish. This savory base will help infuse moisture and flavor into your ravioli as they bake.
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Layer half of the ravioli over the sauce. Arrange them neatly for even cooking; this ensures every piece gets coated in that delicious sauce.
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Add more marinara sauce on top of the ravioli, followed by sprinkling mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously. This layer will melt beautifully and form a delightful cheesy crust.
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Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
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Cool slightly, then garnish with fresh basil before serving. This little touch brightens the dish and adds a lovely aroma.
Optional: You can drizzle a little extra olive oil on top before serving for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Baked Ravioli is an excellent choice for meal prep aficionados seeking to save time during busy weeknights! You can assemble the whole dish up to 24 hours in advance; just cover it tightly with plastic wrap after layering the ravioli and sauce to keep it fresh in the refrigerator. Additionally, the ravioli can be prepped and frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, simply take it out of the fridge and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven. This dish will still come out just as delicious, with gooey cheese and flavorful layers waiting to be savored!
What to Serve with Baked Ravioli?
Picture a delightful family dinner, where our comforting baked dish takes center stage, surrounded by delicious sides and drinks.
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Garlicky Breadsticks: The perfect accompaniment, these warm, soft breadsticks are great for soaking up that delicious marinara sauce left on your plate.
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Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing balance to the rich ravioli, drizzled with a light vinaigrette for a zesty contrast that brightens each bite.
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Roasted Vegetables: Their caramelized sweetness complements the savory dish beautifully, adding a colorful touch and healthy crunch to your meal.
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Crispy Brussels Sprouts: With a bit of olive oil and seasoning, these add a delightful texture and earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with cheesy pasta.
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Italian White Wine: A chilled Pinot Grigio enhances the meal, its crispness cutting through the richness of the cheese and bringing a refreshing palate cleanse.
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Tiramisu: For dessert, this rich yet light Italian classic rounds off your meal perfectly, leaving everyone with a sweet memory to savor long after dinner.
How to Store and Freeze Baked Ravioli
Room Temperature: Leftover baked ravioli can sit out for up to 2 hours at room temperature before safety becomes a concern.
Fridge: Store your delicious baked ravioli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: If you want to save some for later, freeze baked ravioli in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: For the best texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes covered with foil, then uncover for another 5-10 minutes to crisp it up.
Baked Ravioli Variations
Feel free to get creative with this dish—there are countless ways to customize your baked ravioli for exciting new flavors!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute the ravioli with gluten-free pasta options available in stores; just ensure the rest of your ingredients are also gluten-free.
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Vegetable-Packed: Add layers of sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms between the ravioli for added nutrition and flavor. The mix of textures will elevate your dish!
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes into the marinara sauce to give a little heat to every bite, perfect for those who love a bit of spice in their meals.
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Creamy Twist: Blend in a layer of cream cheese or ricotta cheese with the marinara for a richer, creamier sauce that will make your sauce even more luscious.
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Protein Boost: Layer in cooked ground beef, turkey, or Italian sausage for added protein; the robust flavors will create a satisfying and hearty dish.
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Pesto Infusion: Swap out some marinara for pesto to introduce a fresh, herby twist that infuses every bite with a burst of flavor.
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Herbed Delight: Mix in dried herbs like oregano or Italian seasoning into the cheese layers to enhance the aromatic qualities of your baked ravioli.
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Nutty Flavor: For an unusual twist, add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top before serving for an extra layer of crunch and flavor. The nuttiness pairs beautifully with the cheese!
Expert Tips for Baked Ravioli
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Choose Quality Ravioli: Opt for fresh or artisan ravioli to elevate the flavors; frozen ones are convenient but might lack the depth of taste.
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Sauce Selection: Use a high-quality marinara sauce—homemade if you can! It will enhance the overall flavor of your baked ravioli.
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Don’t Overdo Cheese: While it’s tempting to add more cheese, too much can make the dish greasy. Stick to the measurements for a perfect balance.
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Bake with Foil: Cover with foil for the first part of baking to ensure the ravioli cook through. Removing it later allows the cheese to get that golden, bubbly finish.
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Add Extra Flavor: Consider mixing in sautéed vegetables or cooked meats for added texture and taste. Just remember, the focus should still be on the rich baked ravioli.
Baked Ravioli Recipe FAQs
What type of ravioli should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using fresh or artisan ravioli if you can find them. Cheese-filled options are fantastic, but you can use frozen ravioli in a pinch. Just make sure not to overcook them when baking!
How do I store leftover baked ravioli?
Leftover baked ravioli can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I often reheat mine in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covered with foil for the first half to keep it moist, then uncovered for a few minutes to let the cheese crisp up.
Can I freeze baked ravioli?
Yes, you can! To freeze your baked ravioli, allow it to cool completely, then place it in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to label it with the date. You can safely keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake it at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
What should I do if my ravioli looks overcooked or mushy?
If your baked ravioli seems overcooked, it might be due to excess moisture from the sauce or baking too long. To fix this, you can try reducing the sauce next time or baking for a shorter period, especially if using frozen ravioli that may already have more moisture.
Are there any allergy concerns with this recipe?
Very! This recipe contains dairy, specifically mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, which may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. You can easily substitute with plant-based cheese alternatives. Also, be cautious if you or anyone you’re serving has gluten allergies; ensure the ravioli is gluten-free, as many store-bought varieties are made with wheat.
Can I add vegetables or meat to my baked ravioli?
Of course! The more the merrier when it comes to flavor. You can mix in sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or even add cooked Italian sausage or ground beef to the layers. Just remember to not overwhelm the dish; you want that delightful cheese and sauce to shine through.
Irresistibly Cheesy Baked Ravioli That’ll Wow Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of the baking dish.
- Layer half of the ravioli over the sauce.
- Add more marinara sauce on top of the ravioli, followed by sprinkling mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Cool slightly, then garnish with fresh basil before serving.
