Cheesy Baked Cheese Ravioli with Marinara: The Ultimate Comfort Pasta Dinner

Key Info

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Servings: 4-6

Difficulty: Easy

Diet: Vegetarian Option

Equipment Needed

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Aluminum foil
• Cheese grater (optional)

Ingredients

• 24 oz cheese ravioli (fresh or frozen)
• 24 oz marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Red pepper flakes
• Fresh basil for garnish

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Lightly grease your baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
3. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce across the bottom of the dish.
4. Arrange the first layer of ravioli, ensuring they’re slightly overlapping but not crowded.
5. Pour more marinara sauce over the ravioli, covering completely.
6. Sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
7. Repeat layering: ravioli, sauce, cheese until all ingredients are used.
8. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30-35 minutes.
9. Remove foil and broil for 2-3 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
10. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Crucial Tips

• Do NOT walk away during broiling
• Frozen ravioli may need extra cooking time
• Use fresh herbs for maximum flavor
• Check sauce consistency – shouldn’t be watery

Storage

• Refrigerate: 3-4 days in airtight container
• Freeze: Up to 2 months

Variations

• Add spinach or mushrooms between layers
• Use gluten-free ravioli
• Swap marinara for alfredo for creamy version

Pro Tips

• Fresh herbs make a huge difference
• Use high-quality marinara for best flavor
• Don’t overcrowd the baking dish

Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: 450-500
• Protein: 20g
• Calcium: High
• Sodium: Moderate

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking ravioli
• Skipping the foil cover
• Not letting dish rest before serving

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with garlic bread
• Side salad
• Glass of red wine

Bon appétit! This baked cheese ravioli is about to become your new favorite comfort food.