Why You’ll Love This baked ravioli
- Ease of preparation: This baked ravioli recipe is designed for simplicity, requiring minimal ingredients and a quick cooking time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners, making comfort food accessible without complicated steps.
- Health benefits: Packed with nutritious components like ground beef, marinara sauce, and cheese, baked ravioli offers a balanced meal with ample protein, carbohydrates, and fiber. The use of fresh seasonings and quality ingredients supports an overall wholesome eating experience.
- Versatility: Easily adaptable, this baked ravioli can be modified for various dietary preferences including vegan substitutes, gluten-free ravioli options, or reduced-fat cheese choices. This flexibility ensures it can suit diverse nutritional needs without compromising on great taste.
- Distinctive flavor: Combining a rich tomato-based meat sauce with gooey melted mozzarella cheese and savory herbs creates a mouthwatering dish. The layering effect in this baked ravioli enhances texture and flavor, offering a satisfying and hearty meal that stands out in the pasta category.
Jump To
- 1. Why You’ll Love This baked ravioli
- 2. Essential Ingredients for baked ravioli
- 3. How to Prepare the Perfect baked ravioli: Step-by-Step Guide
- 4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your baked ravioli
- 5. Mastering baked ravioli: Advanced Tips and Variations
- 6. How to Store baked ravioli: Best Practices
- 7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About baked ravioli
- 8. baked ravioli
Essential Ingredients for baked ravioli
- 340g (3/4 lb.) ground beef – provides rich protein and savory flavor
- Salt and pepper to taste – balances and enhances flavors
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder – adds subtle aromatic depth
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil – infuses herbal notes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano – offers classic Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder – adds mild pungency and complexity
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce – adds flavor depth without overwhelming heat
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – enriches umami and savory layers
- 1 small yellow onion, diced – provides texture and sweetness
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – enhances savory aroma
- 680g (24 oz.) marinara sauce – creates the flavorful tomato base
- 120ml (1/2 cup) half and half – adds creaminess to the sauce
- 200g (2 cups) shredded mozzarella cheese (preferably low-moisture, whole milk) – melts into a gooey, melty topping
- 570g (20 oz.) refrigerated or frozen uncooked ravioli (any filling) – the main pasta component
Special Dietary Options:
- Vegan: Use plant-based ground meat alternatives and dairy-free cheese substitutes; select vegan ravioli made from vegetables or legumes.
- Gluten-free: Replace regular ravioli with certified gluten-free varieties made from rice or corn flour.
- Low-calorie: Opt for lean ground turkey or plant proteins, reduced-fat cheese, and light cream or milk substitutes to lower overall calories.
How to Prepare the Perfect baked ravioli: Step-by-Step Guide
First Step: Preheat and prep baking dish
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9 x 13-inch (23 x 33 cm) oven-safe casserole dish with olive oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Second Step: Cook and season the ground beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, season the ground beef with salt and pepper. Cook and crumble the beef for about 3 minutes until it begins to brown.
Third Step: Add seasonings and aromatics
To the beef, add onion powder, dried basil, dried oregano, mustard powder, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and diced yellow onion. Sauté for 5 minutes or until the onion softens. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Drain any excess grease from the pan.
Fourth Step: Prepare the sauce
Spread 3/4 cup (180ml) marinara sauce at the bottom of the casserole dish. Stir the remaining marinara sauce into the beef mixture along with the half and half, combining well to create a rich meat sauce.
Fifth Step: Layer the ravioli
Arrange half the uncooked ravioli in a single layer on top of the marinara sauce in the dish. Spoon half the meat sauce mixture evenly over the ravioli and sprinkle with 1/2 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese.
Sixth Step: Repeat layering
Place the remaining ravioli over the first layer and cover with the remaining meat sauce. Top with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese to create a cheesy crust.
Seventh Step: Bake
Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Then remove the cover and switch the oven to broil at 450°F (230°C). Broil for 1-2 minutes until the cheese topping turns golden brown and bubbly. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Final Step: Serve
Remove the baked ravioli from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Tip: For dietary variations, swap in vegan or gluten-free ravioli and cheese substitutes, adjusting the baking time slightly if necessary for fully cooked results.
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your baked ravioli
Protein and Main Component Alternatives
- Use plant-based ground meat alternatives or tofu crumbles for vegan baked ravioli.
- Replace traditional ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage to vary protein content and flavor.
- Choose gluten-free ravioli made from rice, corn, or chickpea flour for gluten sensitivity.
Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications
- Add chopped spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the meat sauce for extra vegetables and nutrients.
- Substitute marinara sauce with Alfredo, roasted red pepper sauce, or pesto for diverse flavor profiles.
- Include fresh herbs like parsley, oregano, or thyme, and adjust seasoning with garlic powder, red pepper flakes, or smoked paprika to customize taste.
Mastering baked ravioli: Advanced Tips and Variations
- Pro cooking techniques: Lightly precook ravioli for 1-2 minutes in boiling water before baking to prevent sogginess and enhance texture. Use a broiler at the end to crisp the cheese topping beautifully.
- Flavor variations: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, roasted garlic, or caramelized onions into the sauce. Try cheese blends with fontina, parmesan, or smoked mozzarella for richer flavors.
- Presentation tips: Serve baked ravioli in individual ramekins for an elegant touch and garnish with finely chopped fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- Make-ahead options: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking. Freeze portions for easy ready meals, thawing overnight before reheating.
How to Store baked ravioli: Best Practices
| Storage Method | Guidelines | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Store leftovers in airtight containers to preserve freshness and flavor. | 3-4 days |
| Freezing | Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. | Up to 2-3 months |
| Reheating | Reheat leftovers covered in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through and cheese is melty. Microwave reheating is also possible but less optimal for texture. | As needed |
| Meal prep considerations | Make multiple servings and store in individual portions for convenient reheat-and-eat meals throughout the week. | Varies |
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About baked ravioli
Can I use frozen ravioli to make baked ravioli, and do I need to adjust the cooking time?
Yes, frozen ravioli works well for baked ravioli recipes. Since frozen ravioli is pre-cooked, you don’t need to boil it beforehand. When baking, add about 15 minutes extra to the cooking time or bake until the cheese melts and the sauce is bubbly. Cover the dish initially and uncover near the end to brown the cheese if desired.
Do I have to boil ravioli before baking it in this recipe?
No, boiling ravioli before baking is not necessary. When baked in sauce, the ravioli cooks fully during baking, absorbing flavors and staying intact without becoming mushy. This method saves time and avoids overcooking.
How should I store baked ravioli leftovers to keep them fresh?
Store leftover baked ravioli in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then warm in the oven until heated through.
Can I use different meats in the sauce for baked ravioli?
Yes, baked ravioli sauce can be made with various meats. Common choices include ground beef, pork, Italian sausage, or a combination. These meats add flavor and richness to the sauce, complementing the ravioli perfectly.
What type of cheese is best for topping baked ravioli?
Low-moisture, whole milk mozzarella shredded from a block is ideal for baked ravioli. It melts evenly and creates a creamy, gooey topping without releasing excess water, which helps maintain the dish’s texture. Fresh mozzarella can be used but may result in a wetter casserole.
baked ravioli
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Contains Gluten, Dairy
Description
🍝 Enjoy Baked Ravioli as a hearty and satisfying meal with layers of tender pasta, flavorful meat sauce, and melted cheese.
🔥 This dish offers a comforting twist with rich seasonings and a crispy broiled top perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
340g ground beef
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
1 teaspoon hot sauce
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 small yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
680g marinara sauce
120ml half and half
200g shredded mozzarella cheese
570g refrigerated or frozen uncooked ravioli
Instructions
1-First Step: Preheat and prep baking dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9 x 13-inch (23 x 33 cm) oven-safe casserole dish with olive oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2-Second Step: Cook and season the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, season the ground beef with salt and pepper. Cook and crumble the beef for about 3 minutes until it begins to brown.
3-Third Step: Add seasonings and aromatics: To the beef, add onion powder, dried basil, dried oregano, mustard powder, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and diced yellow onion. Sauté for 5 minutes or until the onion softens. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Drain any excess grease from the pan.
4-Fourth Step: Prepare the sauce: Spread 3/4 cup (180ml) marinara sauce at the bottom of the casserole dish. Stir the remaining marinara sauce into the beef mixture along with the half and half, combining well to create a rich meat sauce.
5-Fifth Step: Layer the ravioli: Arrange half the uncooked ravioli in a single layer on top of the marinara sauce in the dish. Spoon half the meat sauce mixture evenly over the ravioli and sprinkle with 1/2 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese.
6-Sixth Step: Repeat layering: Place the remaining ravioli over the first layer and cover with the remaining meat sauce. Top with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese to create a cheesy crust.
7-Seventh Step: Bake: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Then remove the cover and switch the oven to broil at 450°F (230°C). Broil for 1-2 minutes until the cheese topping turns golden brown and bubbly. Watch closely to prevent burning.
8-Final Step: Serve: Remove the baked ravioli from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Notes
🍳 Use frozen ravioli if needed, but extend baking time by 15 minutes to ensure thorough cooking.
🧀 Mix mozzarella with Parmesan for a crispier, more flavorful cheese topping.
🥫 Choose a quality marinara sauce and consider increasing the amount for saucier leftovers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Baking time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 549 kcal
- Sodium: 1507 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 52 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 37 g
Keywords: baked ravioli, layered pasta dish, cheesy baked meal, hearty dinner
I tried your baked pasta dish last night and it was a huge hit with the family! 🥳 We added a bit of garlic butter before baking, and it turned out delicious. Do you think adding spinach would work well too?
★★★★★