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
Scale
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.
