If you are searching for a comforting, hearty, and utterly delicious twist on classic Italian dishes, this Ravioli Lasagna Recipe is about to become your new favorite. It combines the best of two beloved favorites—ravioli and lasagna—into one effortless, crowd-pleasing casserole. Layers of cheese-stuffed ravioli swim in a vibrant marinara sauce, complemented by creamy ricotta and melty mozzarella, all baked to golden bubbly perfection. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends when you want incredible flavor with minimal fuss, and I’m so excited to share every detail with you!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, tasty ingredients come together to create this remarkable dish, each thoughtfully chosen to bring harmony in flavor, texture, and color. Nothing fancy here, just honest, essential components that work beautifully in the Ravioli Lasagna Recipe.
- 12 oz fresh or frozen cheese ravioli: The star of the show, these bring stuffed cheesy pockets that melt wonderfully when baked.
- 3 cups marinara sauce: Choose a rich, flavorful tomato sauce to add freshness and acidity that balance the creamy cheeses.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds a luscious, creamy texture that softens each layer.
- 2 cups shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese: Provides gooey, melty deliciousness that pulls apart in every bite.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkles a salty, nutty zip elevating the overall flavor profile.
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs: A fragrant touch to infuse the marinara with classic Italian essence.
How to Make Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously greasing a baking dish. Setting your oven to the right temperature early ensures an even bake that crisps and melts your ingredients perfectly.
Step 2: Flavor Your Marinara Sauce
Warm the marinara sauce gently over medium heat in a saucepan and stir in the dried Italian herbs. This simple step releases the herbs’ fragrant oils, enriching the sauce with authentic, zesty depth that harmonizes all layers of the lasagna.
Step 3: Layer Your First Round of Ingredients
Begin by spreading a thin layer of the herb-infused marinara on the bottom of your greased dish. Next, lay down half of the ravioli evenly, ensuring each one has room to cook through without clumping. Dollop half of the ricotta cheese over the ravioli, then evenly sprinkle half the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top. Layering thoughtfully helps every bite sing with balanced flavors and textures.
Step 4: Repeat Layers for Full Flavor
Repeat the layering process with remaining ravioli, ricotta, and cheese, finishing off with a generous spread of marinara sauce and leftover cheeses on top. This final layer guarantees a beautifully browned cheese crust that seals in creamy, saucy goodness.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes to allow the ravioli to cook fully and the cheeses to melt. Then, remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for another 15 minutes until the top is gorgeously golden brown and bubbling. This crucial uncovered step creates that irresistible crust everyone loves in lasagna.
How to Serve Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top just before serving to add a pop of vibrant green and fresh herbal notes that brighten the rich flavors. A light drizzle of good olive oil can also elevate the dish.
Side Dishes
This Ravioli Lasagna Recipe pairs beautifully with a simple green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or steamed seasonal vegetables like asparagus or broccoli to balance the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is always a surefire companion for scooping up every last bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in mini baking dishes or cast iron skillets to impress guests. You can also add layers of vegetables like spinach or mushrooms between the ravioli for an added nutritional kick and visual appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Ravioli Lasagna Recipe tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld together further, making it even tastier the next day.
Freezing
This dish freezes wonderfully—wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing in the freezer. Freeze for up to 2 months, perfect for pre-made meals or batch cooking.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to preserve the cheesy, saucy texture without drying out. Microwave works in a pinch but can make the dish a bit soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen ravioli or do I need fresh ravioli?
You can absolutely use either fresh or frozen ravioli in this Ravioli Lasagna Recipe. Just be sure to thaw frozen ravioli before assembling for best results and even cooking.
Is it necessary to cook the ravioli before layering?
No need to cook ravioli beforehand; the baking process in sauce is sufficient to fully cook and soften them while absorbing flavor.
What if I don’t have all the cheeses listed?
Mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan together create the ideal mix of creaminess and flavor. However, you can substitute or add cheeses like provolone or fontina based on your preference.
Can I add meat to the Ravioli Lasagna Recipe?
Definitely! Adding cooked ground beef, sausage, or even sautéed mushrooms can make the dish heartier and add extra savoriness if you prefer a meaty twist.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply opt for gluten-free ravioli and ensure your marinara sauce is free of wheat-based thickeners. Many stores offer gluten-free ravioli options that work perfectly in this recipe.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to try this Ravioli Lasagna Recipe and experience how it effortlessly blends simple ingredients into a decadent and warming meal. It’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or indulging in all by yourself! Once you try it, you’ll find it’s a fantastic way to reinvent familiar favorites with minimal effort and maximum joy.
Print
Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Ravioli Lasagna is a comforting and easy-to-make Italian-inspired casserole that layers fresh or frozen cheese ravioli with marinara sauce, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. It’s a delightful twist on traditional lasagna, perfect for a hearty family dinner or a weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh or frozen cheese ravioli
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish to prevent the lasagna from sticking.
- Heat Sauce: Warm the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring in the dried Italian herbs to enhance the flavor.
- First Layer: Spread a layer of the marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Then add half of the ravioli, dollop half of the ricotta cheese evenly over the ravioli, and sprinkle half of both the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses on top.
- Second Layer: Repeat the layering process with the remaining ravioli, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Finish with a top layer of marinara sauce and the leftover cheeses to create a flavorful, cheesy crust.
- Baking: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes to cook the ravioli and meld the flavors. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Notes
- Fresh or frozen ravioli can be used; if using frozen, no need to thaw before assembling.
- For added flavor, consider adding cooked spinach or ground meat in between the layers.
- Rest the lasagna for 5 minutes after baking to allow it to set for easier serving.
- If you prefer a crispier top, broil for 2-3 minutes after baking uncovered, watching closely to prevent burning.
