Baked Ravioli Meat Sauce

What is a comfort food? Baked Ravioli with Meat Sauce. Is it like lasagna’s easier, quicker cousin, delivering all the warm, cheesey goodness without the heat? My grandma made something similar on Sunday nights, and the smell of it baking would make me cry. Just fill the whole house with happiness. This version? Even easier, and just as soul-satisfying. What is a good recipe for baked ravioli?

What is Baked Ravioli with Meat Sauce?

Think of it as a simplified, deconstructed lasagna, where instead of layering noodles, sauce, and sauce. We use pre-made ravioli as the base. What is essentially a casserole made with cheesy ravioli, smothered in rich meat sauce, and then topped with cheese. It’s basically one of those foods. Baked until golden brown. Do not overbake. The ravioli get perfectly tender, the sauce thickens beautifully, and the cheese melts into gooey goodness. Is it the kind of dish that makes everyone happy, and it’s surprisingly easy to throw together, even if you don’t have a knife? Is it a good time to have s What is comfort food?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Oh, where do I even start? This baked ravioli with meat sauce has become a staple in our house for so many reasons. First and foremost, the flavor is incredible. The combination of the cheesy ravioli with the savory meat sauce is just divine. It’s rich, comforting, and satisfying in every single bite. What I love most about this is how incredibly easy it is to make. Seriously, it’s a lifesaver on those nights when you’re short on time but still want a delicious, home-cooked meal. It’s also incredibly cost-efficient. You can use frozen ravioli and store-bought sauce, making it a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on flavor. This is definitely a recipe where you can get the kids involved too, they absolutely love helping to layer everything. I think it tastes even better than lasagna, and it takes half the time. Plus, it’s totally versatile. Add veggies to the sauce, use different types of ravioli – spinach and ricotta are great – or sprinkle some extra cheese on top for an even cheesier experience. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!

How do I make Baked Ravioli with Meat Sauce?

Quick Overview

Is this recipe so easy? What is the best way to brown ground meat in a tomato sauce? How do you serve ravioli and cheese in a baking dish? Pop it in the oven until everything is hot, bubbly, and golden brown. The magic lies in the layering and the simplicity of the ingredients. Do you need to be a gourmet chef to pull this one off – it’s gonna be an absolute crowd pleaser.

Ingredients

What is the recipe for meat sauce?
* 1 pound ground beef (I often use lean ground meat, but you can use ground turkey or sausage as a substitute). ) * 1 medium onion, chopped (Yellow or white onion works great). ) * 2 cloves garlic, minced (Freshly is always best! ) * 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce (Use your favorite brand. I like a spicy arrabbiata, but I’m not sure what to make. ) * 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce (This adds extra depth of flavor. ) * 1 teaspoon dried oregano (Adds a nice, earthy note. ) * 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (Complements oregano beautifully. * Salt and pepper to taste (Don’t be afraid to season generously! ) * 1/4 cup water (To thin out the sauce if needed.)

For the Ravioli and Cheese:
* 25 ounces frozen ravioli (Cheese and kale are my go-tos, but meat-filled or spinach filled work just as well). ) * 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (Freshly grated is always best for melting.) ) * 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (Adds a salty, nutty flavor. ) * 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (For garnish, optional but highly recommended.)

What are the steps for

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I usually use cooking spray, but you can also use olive oil. How do you prevent ravioli from sticking to the bottom of the dish? Make sure the oven is fully preheated for even baking.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown ground beef. When the beef is browned, break it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease. What do you like about greasy ravioli?

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned beef. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is softened and translucent. The aroma of the garlic and onion is just wonderful at this stage. What is the base of our meat sauce?

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

Stir in the tomato sauce, oregano, and dried basil. Serve immediately. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes. What is the best way The longer it simmers, the richer and more flavorful it will be. If the sauce gets too thick, add a little water to thin it out to your desired consistency. I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes to my smoothies. I like it!

Step 5: Layer It Up

Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. What makes ravioli so good? Arrange half of the frozen ravioli in a single layer over the sauce. Half of the remaining meat sauce is drizzled over the ravioli. Sprinkle with half the mozzarella. What’s the difference between Parmesan cheese and mozzarella? Repeat the layers with the remaining ravioli, sauce, and cheese. What are some good side dishes to serve with ravioli and sauce?

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and crispy. The foil helps to keep the ravioli from drying out, while removing it allows the cheese to get melted. Is it a good time to brown something crispy

Step 7: Cool & Garnish

Let the baked ravioli with meat sauce cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes it easier to cut and serve. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. What is the best way to add color to a dish?

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve hot and enjoy! This baked ravioli with meat sauce is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a side salad. What is garlic bread? What are some comfort food recipes?

What should I serve it with?

This baked ravioli with meat sauce is pretty much a complete meal on its own. What are some good ideas to round things out?

For a simple side: I’m 57A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of ravioli. I like to use mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers and a simple balsamic vinaigrette.

How do you soak up the sauce?Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is a must for soaking up all that delicious meat sauce. Can you make your own garlic bread? What is the best way to toast potatoes in the oven?

For a veggie boost:Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans add a healthy dose of vitamin C to your diet. I often toss them with a little olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder before roasting.

For a fancy touch:If you’re serving this to guests, you can add a small dollop of ricotta cheese on top of each. Serve with fresh basil. It adds a touch of elegance and enhances the flavor of the dish.

This has been our family meal for years, it always a delight. What should I eat?

How do I make Baked Ravioli with Meat Sauce?

What are some ways to take baked ravioli with meat sauce to the next level? What are some of my top tips and tricks?

Don’t overcook ravioli. Cook forSince ravioli is baked in the oven, you don’t need to pre-cook it. Is frozen ravioli a good option?

Use high-quality ingredients: aWhat are the best ingredients for a dish? Is it good to eat ground beef with marinara sauce? What makes a world of difference?

Customize the sauce:If you like, you can add extra vegetables to the meat sauce, such as diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers. What are some good ways to add a splash of red wine or pepper flakes?

Don’t overcrowd the baking dish. Don’tMake sure the ravioli are arranged in a single layer and not overcrowded. How do I cook a ham and cheese evenly?

Adjust baking time as needed: Baking times may vary depending on your oven. Keep an eye on the ravioli and adjust the baking time as needed to ensure the cheese is melted and bubbly and the ravioli are heated through.

Let it rest before serving: Letting the baked ravioli with meat sauce rest for a few minutes before serving allows the cheese to set slightly and makes it easier to cut and serve. It also gives the flavors a chance to meld together.

I tried making with a creamy sauce, not my best dish, it tasted too rich. This has been my family favorite over the years.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your baked ravioli with meat sauce:

Storing: Let the ravioli cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheating in the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover ravioli in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil during the last few minutes of baking to allow the cheese to melt and bubble.

Reheating in the microwave: Place a portion of the leftover ravioli on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overcook it, as the ravioli can become tough.

Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the baked ravioli with meat sauce. Let it cool completely, then cut it into individual portions. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw the ravioli in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it in the oven or microwave as described above.

A tip: Freeze in one big tray so you can cut it later for individual meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my go-to recipe for Baked Ravioli with Meat Sauce. It’s easy, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting dish to share with family and friends, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other pasta dishes! Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Be sure to leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And if you make any fun variations, I’d love to hear about them!

No ratings yet

Hearty Chicken and Vegetables Casserole: A Family Favorite

This delicious chicken and vegetables casserole is a nourishing and comforting meal, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.

Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

Rate Pin Pin Recipe Email Print Recipe

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 2.5 pounds chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 cups mixed vegetables carrots, peas, and corn
• 1 cup cream of chicken soup canned
• 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground

Instructions

 

Preparation Steps

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through.
• Combine cooked chicken, mixed vegetables, and cream of chicken soup in a large mixing bowl. Stir in salt and pepper to taste.
• Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve warm.

Notes

For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture before baking.