If you’re craving a comforting dish that brings together the best of both worlds, look no further than ravioli lasagna. This innovative recipe layers delicious cheese-filled ravioli with rich marinara sauce and gooey mozzarella. It’s an easy yet impressive dish that will surely become a family favorite, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
– 1 package of cheese ravioli (fresh or frozen)
– 3 cups marinara sauce
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with a cooking time of 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/6 of the dish) contains approximately 450 calories, 20g of protein, 30g of carbohydrates, 25g of fat, and 900mg of sodium.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
4. Place a layer of ravioli over the sauce.
5. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the ravioli.
6. Sprinkle one cup of mozzarella cheese on top.
7. Repeat layers: sauce, ravioli, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella.
8. Finish with a final layer of ravioli and marinara sauce.
9. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
10. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the cheese ravioli with meat or vegetable ravioli for added flavor. Additionally, use homemade marinara sauce for a fresher taste, or opt for gluten-free ravioli if needed.
Serving and Pairings
Ravioli lasagna pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad and garlic bread. A glass of red wine can enhance the flavors, making for a delightful dining experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s well-covered.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the ravioli; they should be slightly firm.
– Don’t skip layering the sauce; it prevents sticking.
– Ensure even cheese distribution to avoid dry spots.
– Use high-quality marinara for the best flavor.
– Let the dish rest before serving to set.
Helpful Tips
– Use fresh herbs for garnishing to elevate the dish.
– Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.
– Add sautéed vegetables between layers for extra nutrition.
– Ensure your baking dish is deep enough to accommodate layers.
FAQs
Can I make ravioli lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What type of marinara sauce should I use?
Opt for a high-quality store-bought marinara or homemade sauce for the best flavor. Look for options without added sugars or preservatives.
Can I use other types of pasta?
While ravioli is traditional, you can use lasagna noodles or even gluten-free pasta as alternatives. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! Ravioli lasagna can be frozen before or after baking. Just ensure it’s sealed well to prevent freezer burn.
How do I reheat ravioli lasagna?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Cover with foil to retain moisture if needed.
Conclusion
Ravioli lasagna is a delightful twist on the classic lasagna, offering layers of flavor and comfort. With its ease of preparation and rich taste, it’s a dish that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy this hearty meal any time you crave a comforting Italian classic!
Ravioli Lasagna
Ingredients
- 1 package of cheese ravioli
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place a layer of ravioli over the sauce.
- Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the ravioli.
- Sprinkle one cup of mozzarella cheese on top.
- Repeat layers: sauce, ravioli, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella.
- Finish with a final layer of ravioli and marinara sauce.
- Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.
Nutrition
