Easy Baked Ravioli Casserole

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Craving something hearty and cheesy without all the prep time? This Easy Baked Ravioli Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends. It combines the cozy layers of traditional lasagna with the simplicity of frozen ravioli, delivering rich flavor and ooey-gooey cheese in every bite.

Imagine ravioli stuffed with cheese or meat, blanketed in robust marinara sauce, and smothered with a generous layer of melted mozzarella and parmesan. It’s oven-baked perfection with minimal effort. This dish is a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike, and it’s easy to customize with what you have on hand.

---

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this Easy Baked Ravioli Casserole, you don’t need a chef’s kitchen—just a few trusty basics:

1. 9×13 Baking Dish: This is where all the layering magic happens. It ensures even cooking and enough space to hold all those cheesy layers.

2. Mixing Bowl: For combining any add-ins like ricotta, meat, or seasonings into your sauce or cheese mixture.

3. Silicone Spatula or Spoon: Ideal for spreading sauce and scooping layers evenly.

4. Aluminum Foil: To cover the dish during the first half of baking, which helps everything heat evenly before browning the top.

5. Oven Mitts: You’ll need them when lifting that bubbling, golden dish from the oven. Safety first!

These everyday tools make assembling and baking this casserole smooth and fuss-free. So pull them out, and let’s get layering!

---

Ingredients for the Easy Baked Ravioli Casserole

Frozen Cheese Ravioli – These are the base of the casserole. Opt for frozen over fresh to hold their shape during baking and soak up all that saucy goodness.

Marinara Sauce – A robust, garlicky marinara brings rich tomato flavor to every layer. Choose a jarred sauce you love or make your own.

Ground Beef or Italian Sausage (optional) – Adding browned meat makes this dish heartier and transforms it into a full meal.

Ricotta Cheese (optional) – If you’re aiming for a lasagna-style richness, dollops of ricotta between layers elevate the texture.

Mozzarella Cheese – Essential for that melty, stretchy top layer. It also helps hold the dish together.

Parmesan Cheese – Adds depth and a salty finish that balances the sauce and ravioli.

Italian Seasoning – A dash boosts the herbaceous notes in your sauce, especially if you’re using plain canned tomatoes.

Fresh Parsley (optional) – A sprinkle before serving adds color and a burst of freshness.

---

How To Make the Easy Baked Ravioli Casserole

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray or a thin coat of olive oil.

Step 2: Cook the Meat (if using)

In a skillet over medium heat, brown your ground beef or sausage until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and set aside.

Step 3: Start Layering

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Add a layer of frozen ravioli (no need to thaw), followed by more sauce, meat (if using), dollops of ricotta, mozzarella, and a sprinkle of parmesan. Repeat layers until ingredients are used up, finishing with mozzarella and parmesan on top.

Step 4: Bake Covered

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. This allows the ravioli to cook through without drying out.

Step 5: Bake Uncovered

Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Rest and Garnish

Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. Top with chopped parsley if desired.

---

How to Serve and Store Your Easy Baked Ravioli Casserole

Once your casserole is bubbling and golden, it’s ready to serve hot right out of the oven. Slice it into hearty squares and pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It’s also excellent with roasted vegetables or a side of steamed broccoli if you’re looking to lighten it up.

Leftovers? Even better the next day! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in a 300°F oven until heated through. You can also freeze the fully baked (and cooled) casserole for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of ravioli works best?

Frozen cheese ravioli is ideal because it holds up well during baking, but feel free to use meat-filled or even spinach varieties for a twist.

Do I need to cook the ravioli before baking?

Nope! Frozen ravioli goes straight into the baking dish. The sauce and oven heat do all the work for you.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it (uncooked) up to a day in advance. Bake when you’re ready, adding 10 extra minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

Can I skip the meat for a vegetarian version?

Absolutely. The dish is just as satisfying without meat. Add extra cheese or a layer of sautéed mushrooms or spinach for depth.

How can I keep the cheese from getting too brown?

Covering with foil for the first part of baking helps. Only uncover during the final 10-15 minutes to melt and lightly brown the cheese.

Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?

Yes, but reduce the baking time by 10 minutes and make sure the ravioli is well covered in sauce to prevent drying out.

---

Want More Pasta Bake Ideas?

If you love the ease of this Easy Baked Ravioli Casserole, you’ll want to explore some of my other comfort-filled pasta bakes.

You might enjoy the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta for a meaty twist that’s packed with flavor and family-approved. Or dive into the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe if you’re in the mood for bold spice layered into creamy goodness.

For something hearty and classic, the Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a creamy delight you won’t want to miss. And don’t overlook the Pepperoni Pizza Casserole—it’s like pizza night meets pasta bake in the best way.

If you’re craving something extra cozy, check out the Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole for a veggie-packed option that still satisfies.

---

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this recipe to your favorite boards for easy access. Just click the Pin button!

I’d love to hear how your casserole turned out. Did you try a different ravioli filling? Maybe added veggies or swapped in sausage? Leave a comment below with your variations.

And for even more everyday comfort food inspiration, visit my Pinterest board at LadyPlate on Pinterest where I share daily recipe ideas you’ll love adding to your collection.

---

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?