Cheesy Baked Ravioli with Tomato Sauce

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Rest Time 5 mins
Total Time 50 mins
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses: ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 180  C
Servings: 4
Best Season: All Seasons
Description

Cheesy Baked Ravioli with Tomato Sauce is a comforting Italian-style casserole made with tender ravioli layered in rich tomato sauce and topped with melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese. This easy baked pasta dish is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep. With minimal preparation and simple ingredients, this hearty and satisfying recipe delivers the classic flavors of baked pasta in a quick and convenient way.

Ingredients
    For the Ravioli Base
  • 400 g cheese ravioli (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 cups tomato pasta sauce (marinara or homemade)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 0.5 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 0.5 cup ricotta cheese (optional, for creaminess)
    • For Flavor & Seasoning
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 0.5 tsp dried oregano
  • 0.5 tsp dried basil
  • 0.25 tsp chili flakes (optional)
    • For Garnish
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
  • 0.25 cup extra mozzarella cheese for topping
Instructions
    Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish
  1. 1
    Preheat your oven to 180°C. Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking. A 9×9 inch baking dish works well for this recipe.
    2. Prepare the Tomato Sauce
  2. 2
    Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the tomato pasta sauce and stir well. Add salt, black pepper, oregano, basil, and chili flakes. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3–5 minutes so the flavors combine nicely.
    3. Create the First Layer
  3. 3
    Spread a thin layer of the prepared tomato sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. This prevents the ravioli from sticking and keeps them moist during baking.
    4. Add the Ravioli Layer
  4. 4
    Arrange half of the ravioli in a single layer over the sauce. If using frozen ravioli, there is no need to thaw them beforehand.
    5. Add Cheese and Sauce
  5. 5
    Spread half of the remaining tomato sauce evenly over the ravioli. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the parmesan cheese on top. Add small spoonfuls of ricotta cheese if using.
    6. Repeat the Layers
  6. 6
    Add another layer of ravioli followed by the remaining tomato sauce. Finish by topping with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Add a little extra mozzarella on top for a golden cheesy crust.
    7. Bake the Ravioli
  7. 7
    Cover the baking dish loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly and lightly golden.
    8. Rest and Garnish
  8. 8
    Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added freshness and color.
Note

Use Frozen or Fresh Ravioli:
Both frozen and fresh ravioli work well. Frozen ravioli can be used directly without thawing.

Extra Flavor Tip:
Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.

Make it Creamier:
Mix a little ricotta or cream cheese into the sauce for a richer texture.

Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:
Reheat in the oven at 160°C for 10–15 minutes or microwave until heated through.

Freezer Friendly:
You can assemble the dish ahead and freeze it unbaked for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen by adding 10–15 extra minutes to the cooking time.

Keywords: easy dinner, baked pasta, family-friendly, cheesy comfort food, quick Italian recipe
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/cheesy-baked-ravioli-with-tomato-sauce/