Cheesy Ravioli Lasagna Bake

Welcome to a cozy and delicious dinner idea that will have your family asking for seconds – the mouthwatering Ravioli Lasagna Cheese Bake! This recipe takes the classic flavors of lasagna and gives it a fun and convenient twist by using cheese ravioli as the star ingredient. The layers of gooey mozzarella, savory ground beef, and creamy ricotta come together to create a comforting dish that is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

I first discovered this Ravioli Lasagna Cheese Bake on a hectic Tuesday evening when I needed a quick dinner option that didn’t skimp on flavor. Since then, it has become a family favorite, disappearing from the table in no time. The secret to this dish’s success lies in the rich flavors of the marinara sauce, the melty mozzarella, and the comforting taste of the cheese ravioli. With a sprinkle of parsley on top for that extra pop of color, this dish is sure to be a hit with everyone at the dinner table.

Quick Benefits

• Shortcut classic recipe that is a time-saver without compromising on flavor
• Convenient use of frozen ravioli for easy layering and perfect texture after baking
• Make-ahead and freezer-friendly for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep
• Versatile dish with options for different meats, vegetables, and ravioli flavors

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ravioli Lasagna Bake Recipe

• Easy weeknight comfort food that the whole family will love.
• A shortcut to traditional lasagna with extra cheese and layers of flavor.
• Gooey, cheesy, and satisfying with rich meat sauce and creamy ricotta.
• Can be customized with ground turkey, Italian sausage, or different types of ravioli for variety.
• Stores well for leftovers or freezes for future meals.
• Perfect for potlucks or gatherings as it travels well and impresses guests.
• Celebrates modern convenience without sacrificing the flavors of a classic dish.
• Versatile with options to add vegetables and adapt to seasonal ingredients.

Ingredients for Cheesy Ravioli Lasagna Bake

Meat and Proteins

• 1 large egg
• 1 pound ground beef

Cheeses and Dairy

• 0.25 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups ricotta cheese

Vegetables and Aromatics

• 1 small onion, diced
• 0.25 cup chopped parsley
• minced parsley, for garnish
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings

• 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Pasta and Sauce

• 24 ounces marinara sauce
• 25 ounces frozen cheese ravioli

Other

• non-stick cooking spray

Pro Tips for Cheesy Ravioli Lasagna Bake

Pro Tip 1: For a flavorful twist, try using ground turkey or Italian sausage instead of beef. The different meat options will provide distinct tastes that can cater to various preferences.

Pro Tip 2: Utilize frozen cheese ravioli directly in the recipe for a convenient layering process and perfectly cooked texture after baking. This shortcut saves time and ensures a delicious outcome without the need for precooking the pasta.

Pro Tip 3: To plan ahead, assemble the dish up to one day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This allows for easy preparation when you’re ready to bake it for a quick and satisfying meal. Serve with sides like a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to complete the dining experience.

How to Make Cheesy Ravioli Lasagna Bake

Step 1: Prepare Baking Dish

Preheat oven to 350°F and coat a 13×9-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.

Step 2: Sauté Beef and Onion

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until beef is browned, onion is softened, and excess fat is drained.

Step 3: Simmer Meat Sauce

Add marinara sauce and minced garlic to the skillet. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Mix Ricotta Filling

Combine ricotta cheese, egg, parmesan, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder in a bowl. Mix until well combined.

Step 5: Assemble First Layers

Spread one-third of the meat sauce mixture in the baking dish. Place a layer of frozen cheese ravioli on top. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the ravioli, followed by another one-third of the meat sauce.

Step 6: Repeat and Finish Assembly

Layer ravioli, ricotta mixture, and meat sauce again, finishing with meat sauce on top.

Step 7: Add Mozzarella and Bake Covered

Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.

Step 8: Uncover and Finish Baking

Uncover and bake for another 10 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.

Step 9: Garnish and Rest

Take out of the oven and sprinkle with minced parsley. Allow the lasagna to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Storage Tips

Once you have made the Ravioli Lasagna Cheese Bake, allow it to cool completely before storing. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. The leftovers can be kept in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, it is recommended to bake the dish in a covered dish at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until hot. Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for a quicker option.

If you want to prepare the Ravioli Lasagna Cheese Bake in advance, you can assemble the dish up to one day ahead of time. Simply cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake. This make-ahead option is convenient for busy days or when you want to streamline the cooking process. When you are ready to serve, bake the dish as directed in the recipe for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter or spicier twist, consider using ground turkey or Italian sausage instead of beef. These alternatives will provide distinct flavors while still maintaining the heartiness of the dish. You can easily customize the meat component based on your preferences or dietary restrictions.

Using frozen cheese ravioli directly in the recipe allows for convenient layering and ensures the perfect texture after baking. This shortcut saves time in the kitchen without compromising on taste. The frozen ravioli will cook perfectly in the layers of cheese, meat sauce, and ricotta, resulting in a delicious and satisfying dish without the need for additional steps or ingredients.

To make meal prep easier, you can assemble the Ravioli Lasagna Cheese Bake up to one day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This allows you to conveniently prepare the dish ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or preparing for a gathering, this make-ahead option can help streamline your cooking process and ensure a delicious meal with minimal effort.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try serving individual portions of the Ravioli Lasagna Cheese Bake in small ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets for a cute and personalized presentation. Top each serving with a sprinkle of extra mozzarella cheese and a sprig of fresh parsley for a gourmet touch. The individual servings not only look adorable but also make for easy serving and portion control.

Another fun idea is to turn the Ravioli Lasagna into a fun appetizer by using mini cheese ravioli instead of the regular size. Thread the cooked mini ravioli onto small skewers along with cherry tomatoes and basil leaves for a colorful and delicious bite-sized snack. Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping to create a unique and crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next gathering.

FAQs for Cheesy Ravioli Lasagna Bake

Can I use ground turkey or Italian sausage instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or Italian sausage are great alternatives to beef for distinct flavors.

Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?

No, use frozen ravioli directly for convenient layering and perfect texture after baking.

How should I store leftovers?

Cool completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in oven or microwave.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble up to one day in advance and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Ravioli Lasagna Cheese Bake is a fantastic and convenient twist on a classic dish that is sure to become a family favorite. The layers of cheesy ravioli, savory meat sauce, and creamy ricotta come together in a comforting and satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress at a potluck, this recipe is a winner.

Don’t be afraid to customize this Ravioli Lasagna Cheese Bake to suit your taste preferences – try different types of ravioli, meats, or veggies to make it your own. And remember, this dish can easily be made ahead of time, frozen, and reheated for a stress-free meal option. So go ahead, whip up a batch of this delicious Ravioli Lasagna Cheese Bake and enjoy the comfort and convenience it brings to your table!