Baked Ravioli Delight Recipe

The Best Baked Ravioli Recipe That Everyone Will Crave

Baked ravioli offers a scrumptious twist on traditional pasta preparations that elevates simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

Italian culinary traditions inspire this comforting dish that melds crispy textures with rich, melted cheese.

Home cooks appreciate how quickly this recipe comes together with minimal preparation.

Hearty and satisfying, these golden-brown parcels emerge from the oven bubbling with savory goodness.

Layers of flavor develop as cheese melts and edges crisp to a delightful golden brown.

Weeknight dinners become special occasions when you serve these delectable pasta pockets that feel like a gourmet experience.

Prepare to elevate your meal with a crowd-pleasing recipe that delivers maximum satisfaction with minimal effort.

Baked Ravioli for a Quick and Hearty Dinner

  • Simplify Comfort Cooking: This baked ravioli recipe transforms frozen pasta into a deliciously cheesy meal with minimal kitchen effort, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Layered Flavor Explosion: Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of tangy marinara, creamy ricotta, melted mozzarella, and savory seasonings that dance together beautifully.
  • Quick and Foolproof Technique: No complex cooking skills required – just layer ingredients, bake, and enjoy a restaurant-quality dinner that looks impressive but takes less than an hour to prepare.

Ingredients for Baked Ravioli

Cheese Base:
  • Ricotta Cheese: Creamy base that adds richness and texture to the dish.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Provides a classic stretchy and melty cheese layer.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Offers a sharp, nutty flavor and golden brown topping.
Pasta Base:
  • Frozen Ravioli: Convenient pre-made pasta that serves as the main protein and carbohydrate component.
Sauce and Seasoning:
  • Marinara Sauce: Classic tomato-based sauce that adds moisture and traditional Italian flavor.
  • Italian Seasoning: Blend of dried herbs that enhances overall dish flavor.
  • Garlic Powder: Adds subtle, aromatic garlic taste without fresh garlic chunks.
  • Salt: Enhances and balances the overall flavor profile.
  • Black Pepper: Provides a mild spicy undertone to the dish.
Garnish:
  • Fresh Basil or Parsley: Adds a fresh, bright finish and visual appeal to the baked dish.
Cooking Preparation:
  • Aluminum Foil: Used for initial covered baking to prevent excessive browning.

How to Make Baked Ravioli

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank up your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a quick spray of cooking oil to keep things from sticking.

Step 2: Create the First Layer

Pour a thin blanket of marinara sauce across the bottom of the dish. Gently place half of the frozen ravioli on top of the sauce, creating a cozy pasta foundation.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine:
  • Ricotta cheese
  • Italian seasoning
  • Garlic powder
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Blend these ingredients until they’re smooth and well-mixed. Dollop half of this creamy mixture over the ravioli, then sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella cheese on top.

Step 4: Build the Second Layer

Add another splash of marinara sauce. Arrange the remaining ravioli over the sauce. Spread the rest of the ricotta mixture on top. Finish by showering the dish with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and slide it into the oven. Bake for 25 minutes. Then, reveal the dish by removing the foil and continue baking for 15-20 minutes until the cheese turns golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Final Touches and Serving

Let the ravioli rest for a few minutes after removing from the oven. Sprinkle some freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve hot and enjoy your cheesy creation!

Pro Tips for Baked Ravioli

  • Sauce Selection: Choose a high-quality marinara sauce for richer flavor and better overall taste.
  • Cheese Mixing: Blend ricotta ingredients thoroughly to ensure even seasoning throughout the mixture.
  • Layering Technique: Spread ingredients evenly to guarantee consistent cooking and flavor in every bite.
  • Foil Cover Strategy: Keep foil loosely tented to prevent cheese from sticking while allowing proper heat circulation.
  • Fresh Herb Finale: Chop basil or parsley just before sprinkling to maximize their aromatic and vibrant qualities.

Storing and Reheating Baked Ravioli

  • Refrigeration: Store leftover ravioli in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Properly sealed, the dish will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent moisture loss and freezer burn.
  • Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, covering with foil to prevent the top from burning. Add a splash of marinara sauce to maintain moisture and prevent dryness.
  • Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the baked ravioli in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

Pairing Baked Ravioli with Garlic Bread

  • Pair with Robust Red Wine: Select a medium-bodied Italian red like Chianti or Sangiovese to complement the rich, cheesy flavors of the baked ravioli. The wine's acidity cuts through the creamy cheese and balances the tomato sauce perfectly.
  • Crisp Side Salad Companion: Toss a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to provide a fresh, zesty contrast to the hearty ravioli dish. The peppery greens and bright dressing will cleanse the palate between bites.
  • Garlic Bread Sidekick: Serve warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up the extra marinara sauce and add a crunchy texture. The garlic's robust flavor enhances the Italian-inspired taste profile of the baked ravioli.
  • Chilled Prosecco Refresher: Pour a glass of sparkling Prosecco to add a celebratory touch and cut through the dish's richness. Its light, bubbly nature provides a delightful counterpoint to the heavy, cheesy ravioli.

Baked Ravioli Variations to Explore

  • Skillet Ravioli Fusion: Transform the dish by cooking it entirely in a large skillet, creating a crispy bottom layer and reducing overall baking time.
  • Vegetable-Packed Ravioli Bake: Incorporate sautéed spinach, zucchini, and bell peppers between cheese layers for added nutrition and color.
  • Spicy Mediterranean Ravioli: Swap marinara for a spicy arrabbiata sauce, add crumbled feta cheese, and sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a Mediterranean-inspired version.
  • Creamy Mushroom Ravioli Casserole: Replace marinara with a rich mushroom cream sauce, mix in sautéed wild mushrooms, and top with a blend of gruyère and parmesan cheeses for an earthy, luxurious variation.
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Baked Ravioli Delight Recipe

Baked Ravioli Delight Recipe


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4.7 from 10 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Baked Ravioli Delight brings Italian comfort to your dinner table with layers of cheesy goodness and rich marinara sauce. Crispy edges, melted mozzarella, and fresh herbs create a simple yet irresistible meal that draws family and friends together for a memorable dining experience.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 package (25 ounces / 709 grams) frozen cheese ravioli
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings:

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Garnish:

  • Fresh basil or parsley

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch (23×33 centimeters) baking dish with a light coating of cooking spray to prevent adhesion.
  2. Create a foundational layer by spreading a thin coat of marinara sauce across the bottom of the greased baking dish.
  3. Carefully distribute half of the frozen ravioli evenly over the initial sauce layer, ensuring uniform coverage.
  4. In a separate mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, kosher salt, and ground black pepper until well incorporated.
  5. Delicately spoon half of the seasoned ricotta mixture over the first ravioli layer, then generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
  6. Repeat the layering process by adding another thin coat of marinara sauce, followed by the remaining ravioli and the rest of the ricotta mixture.
  7. Complete the assemblage by generously topping with the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses, creating a visually appealing and flavorful surface.
  8. Securely cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
  9. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese becomes golden, bubbly, and slightly crisp around the edges.
  10. Once removed from the oven, allow the ravioli to rest and cool for 3-5 minutes to help the layers set and prevent burning.
  11. Enhance the presentation by garnishing with freshly chopped basil or parsley, adding a vibrant and aromatic finishing touch before serving.

Notes

  • Freezer to Oven Magic: Transform frozen ravioli into a mouthwatering meal without any pre-boiling hassle.
  • Cheese Lover’s Dream: A generous blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a creamy, indulgent texture that melts perfectly.
  • Seasoning Secret: Italian seasoning and garlic powder elevate the dish from simple to spectacular with minimal effort.
  • Make-Ahead Marvel: Assemble the dish in advance and refrigerate, then bake when you’re ready for a stress-free dinner.
  • Quick Customization: Easily swap marinara for your favorite pasta sauce or add cooked ground meat for extra protein.
  • Fresh Finish: A sprinkle of fresh herbs brings brightness and restaurant-quality presentation to this easy comfort food.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 380 cal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 620 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg
Lucas Bennett

Lucas Bennett

Founder & Recipe Creator

Expertise

Simple Everyday Recipes, Sustainable Cooking Practices, Creative Meal Planning, Recipe Testing and Improvement

Education

Fox Valley Technical College, Appleton, Wisconsin

  • Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Practical culinary training, fundamental cooking techniques, meal planning, and using fresh, local ingredients.

Lake Superior College, Duluth, Minnesota

  • Program: Certificate in Sustainable Food Systems
  • Focus: Cooking methods that promote sustainability, farm-to-table practices, and eco-friendly meal creation.

Lucas Bennett’s cooking journey started in his parents’ kitchen, where he learned to prepare tasty, no-fuss meals from scratch. His culinary passion led him to Fox Valley Technical College, where he gained practical cooking skills.
He then expanded his focus on sustainability at Lake Superior College. Today, Lucas shares easy, approachable recipes designed to make cooking enjoyable and stress-free for everyone.

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