Description
This Baked Ravioli recipe is a comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring layers of tender cheese ravioli baked in a rich marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, and infused with fresh basil and garlic. Perfect as a hearty family meal or a delicious dinner party entrée.
Ingredients
Scale
Ravioli
- 16 oz fresh or frozen cheese ravioli
Sauce
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Cheese Toppings
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing or lining it to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Garlic: In a saucepan over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, careful not to burn it.
- Simmer Sauce: Stir in the marinara sauce with the garlic and let it simmer gently for about five minutes to enhance the flavors.
- First Layer: Spread a thin layer of the prepared marinara sauce in the bottom of the baking dish. Arrange half of the ravioli in a single layer on top of the sauce. Spoon half of the remaining sauce over the ravioli and sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Second Layer: Repeat the layering with the remaining ravioli, sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Finish by sprinkling the freshly grated Parmesan cheese evenly across the top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to cook through and meld the flavors.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, ensuring a deliciously crispy topping.
Notes
- Fresh or frozen ravioli can be used; if using frozen, no need to thaw before baking.
- Use good quality marinara sauce for the best flavor or make your own.
- To add a bit of spice, consider sprinkling red pepper flakes into the marinara sauce when simmering.
- Let the baked ravioli rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
- You can substitute basil with fresh oregano or parsley if preferred.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free ravioli.
