If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside, this Baked Ravioli with Marinara and Mozzarella Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a mouthwatering blend of tender ravioli, rich marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese baked to bubbly, golden perfection. Whether you’re feeding a family or impressing friends, this dish balances simplicity with comfortfood vibes, turning everyday ingredients into a crowd-pleaser that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to making this Baked Ravioli with Marinara and Mozzarella Recipe shine. Each element adds its own burst of flavor and texture to the dish, creating a harmonious and irresistible meal.
- 16 oz fresh or frozen cheese ravioli: The star of the dish, tender pasta pockets filled with creamy cheese provide a satisfying base.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: A vibrant, tomato-rich sauce that brings tang and warmth, perfect for soaking into the ravioli.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: This meltable cheese adds gooey, creamy layers throughout.
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: A salty, nutty topping that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped: Fresh herbs brighten the dish and add a fragrant touch.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Used to gently sauté garlic and enrich the sauce’s flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses warmth and depth, elevating the marinara to a new level.
How to Make Baked Ravioli with Marinara and Mozzarella Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish
First, set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s perfectly heated by the time your dish is assembled. Grease or lightly oil a baking dish to prevent sticking and allow that cheesy goodness to bake evenly.
Step 2: Infuse Marinara with Garlic
In a saucepan over medium heat, warm up the olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until it becomes fragrant—this only takes a minute or two but it’s crucial for layering flavors beautifully into the sauce.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Once the garlic is aromatic, pour in the marinara sauce and let it simmer gently for about five minutes. This soft simmer melds the garlic’s warmth into the sauce, making it richer and more complex without any extra fuss.
Step 4: Assemble the First Layer
Start by spreading a thin layer of the garlic-infused marinara on the bottom of your baking dish. Then carefully lay half of your ravioli over the sauce. Follow it with half the remaining sauce, ensuring each ravioli gets a nice blanket, and sprinkle with a generous layer of mozzarella cheese.
Step 5: Repeat and Top with Parmesan
Repeat the layering with the rest of the ravioli and sauce, finishing with more mozzarella, and top everything off with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This final touch adds a delightful crunch and irresistible salty bite after baking.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover the assembled dish with aluminum foil to keep it moist and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes. You’ll want to watch carefully as the cheese bubbles up and turns a gorgeous golden brown, signaling that deliciousness is ready to be served.
How to Serve Baked Ravioli with Marinara and Mozzarella Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh chopped basil just before serving brings out vibrant color and a fresh, herbal contrast that lifts every bite. A little extra Parmesan or a drizzle of good olive oil also adds flair and depth.
Side Dishes
This baked ravioli pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread to soak up any extra marinara. Light sides help balance the richness of the cheesy bake and make the meal feel complete.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not serve this dish family-style in the baking dish, inviting everyone to dig in and share? Or portion it into individual ramekins for an elegant touch. Either way, the bubbly mozzarella and golden Parmesan guarantee smiles all around.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover baked ravioli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making for a tasty next-day meal that reheats beautifully.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish before baking by assembling it in a freezer-safe container and wrapping it tightly. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before following the baking instructions.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warm and bubbly. For a quicker option, microwave individual servings, but the oven method retains the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought frozen ravioli for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen ravioli works perfectly and makes this Baked Ravioli with Marinara and Mozzarella Recipe a convenient weeknight dinner option without sacrificing flavor.
Is it possible to use a different cheese?
Yes, you can swap mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a different melting quality, but mozzarella’s creamy texture is ideal for that classic gooeyness everyone loves.
Can I add meat to the sauce?
Definitely! Brown some ground beef, sausage, or turkey with the garlic before adding the marinara to create a heartier, protein-packed version of this recipe.
Do I have to cover the dish while baking?
Covering it for the first part of baking keeps the ravioli moist and helps the cheese melt evenly. Removing the foil later allows the top to crisp up beautifully.
What can I serve with this for a more substantial meal?
Pair this dish with a side of sautéed greens, garlic bread, or a light pasta salad to round out the meal without overwhelming those delicious baked ravioli flavors.
Final Thoughts
Trying this Baked Ravioli with Marinara and Mozzarella Recipe is like discovering the perfect comfort food that feels both special and welcoming. With easy steps and familiar ingredients, it’s a fantastic dish to make whenever you want a cheesy, saucy meal that’s sure to get everyone asking for seconds. So grab your ingredients and let yourself enjoy every gooey bite!
Print
Baked Ravioli with Marinara and Mozzarella Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This delicious Baked Ravioli recipe features layers of tender cheese ravioli smothered in savory marinara sauce, sautéed garlic, and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. It’s an easy-to-make, comforting Italian-inspired casserole perfect for family dinners or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 16 oz fresh or frozen cheese ravioli
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
For Sautéing
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it or using non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Garlic: In a saucepan over medium heat, heat the olive oil and add the minced garlic. Sauté it until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Simmer Sauce: Stir in the marinara sauce with the garlic-infused oil. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about five minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Layer First Half: Spread a thin layer of the sauce into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange half of the ravioli evenly over the sauce. Pour half of the remaining sauce on top of the ravioli and sprinkle with half of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Layer Second Half: Repeat the layering process by adding the remaining ravioli, then the rest of the sauce, and top with the remaining mozzarella. Finally, sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top layer.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to cook and warm thoroughly.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh chopped basil, let it cool slightly, and serve warm for a delicious meal.
Notes
- You can use fresh or frozen ravioli depending on availability, but cooking times may vary slightly with frozen ravioli.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce during simmering.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.
- If you prefer a crispier top, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes after baking uncovered, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Gluten-free ravioli can be used to make this recipe gluten-free.
