Easy Cheesy Baked Ravioli is a simple, hearty dinner that brings together everything you love about pasta night tender ravioli, rich meat sauce, and layers of gooey melted cheese. This baked ravioli casserole is quick to assemble, uses everyday ingredients, and feels like a cross between lasagna and baked ziti, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings.
Ingredients for Easy Cheesy Baked Ravioli
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | 1 Tbsp |
| Onion, chopped | ½ medium |
| Extra-lean ground beef | 1 lb |
| Garlic, minced | 3–4 cloves |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste |
| Marinara sauce | 3 cups (divided) |
| Cheese ravioli (uncooked or frozen) | 20 oz |
| Mozzarella cheese, shredded | 2 cups |
| Parmesan cheese, freshly grated | 1 cup |
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This easy cheesy baked ravioli is a comforting family dinner made with layers of cheese ravioli, savory ground beef, marinara sauce, and melty mozzarella and parmesan.
Ingredients
1 Tbsp olive oil
1/2 medium onion, chopped
1 lb extra lean ground beef
3–4 cloves garlic, minced
Salt & black pepper, to taste
3 cups marinara sauce, divided
20 oz cheese ravioli (uncooked or frozen)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease baking dish.
2. Sauté onion in olive oil until softened.
3. Add ground beef and garlic; cook until browned.
4. Stir in 2 cups marinara sauce.
5. Spread remaining sauce in baking dish.
6. Layer ravioli, meat sauce, and cheeses.
7. Repeat layers, finishing with cheese.
8. Cover and bake 30 minutes.
9. Uncover and broil until bubbly and golden.
10. Serve hot.
Notes
Frozen ravioli can be used without thawing.
Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Store leftovers up to 3 days refrigerated.
Freeze up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F and move the oven rack to the top third. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and prep the cheeses.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
Add ground beef and minced garlic. Cook, breaking up the beef, until browned and cooked through, about 8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed and season with salt and pepper.
Stir 2 cups of marinara sauce into the beef mixture and let it heat through.
Spread the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Layer half of the ravioli over the sauce. Top with half of the beef mixture, followed by half of the mozzarella and parmesan cheeses.
Repeat with the remaining ravioli, beef mixture, and cheeses, finishing with cheese on top.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and broil for a few minutes until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
Serve immediately while hot and cheesy.
Helpful Tips
Frozen ravioli can be used straight from the freezer no need to thaw.
For extra flavor, add Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving for easier slicing.
Conclusion
Easy Cheesy Baked Ravioli is comfort food made effortless. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this baked ravioli dinner is perfect for feeding a family, meal prepping, or serving guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make baked ravioli ahead of time?
Yes, assemble up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate before baking.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, freeze tightly wrapped for up to 2 months.
Can I use meatless ravioli?
Absolutely cheese or spinach ravioli both work well.
What can I serve with baked ravioli?
Garlic bread and a simple green salad pair perfectly.