Discover the Easiest 4-Ingredient Baked Ravioli Recipe

Let’s be honest: after a long day, no one wants to spend hours in the kitchen whipping up dinner. That’s why I love this 4-Ingredient Baked Ravioli—it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights or when you’re just craving something cheesy and comforting. With only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a hearty, delicious meal on the table in no time. Bonus? It’s budget-friendly and kid-approved!

This baked ravioli is one of those recipes that feels like a lifesaver. I remember the first time I made it: my pantry was nearly bare, and I needed something quick and satisfying to feed my family. With a jar of marinara, a bag of frozen ravioli, and some cheese, magic happened. It quickly became a staple in our home, and I’m confident it will be in yours too.

Now, let’s talk about what makes this dish a game-changer: layers of gooey mozzarella, hearty marinara sauce, and tender cheese ravioli baked to golden perfection. Hungry yet? Let’s dive in and get started!

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

The beauty of this dish is its simplicity. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. While the oven is heating, prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish (or two 8-inch dishes if you prefer) by giving it a good coat of cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze—trust me, you’ll thank me later!

Once your dish is ready, grab your jar of marinara sauce and pour about ½ cup into the bottom. Use a spoon or spatula to spread it into a thin, even layer. This will act as the base for your first layer of ravioli and keep everything moist and flavorful.

Step 2: Layer the Ravioli

Now comes the fun part—building the layers! Take half of your frozen cheese ravioli and arrange it in a single layer over the marinara sauce. There’s no need to thaw the ravioli ahead of time; they’ll bake beautifully right out of the freezer.

Next, spoon half of the remaining marinara sauce over the ravioli and spread it evenly to cover. Then, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. This layer of cheese melts into the sauce and ravioli, creating that irresistible gooey texture everyone loves.

Why This Recipe Works

What makes this dish so special is its simplicity. By layering the frozen ravioli with marinara sauce and cheese, you’re essentially creating a lasagna-like casserole without all the work. Plus, the combination of marinara and melted mozzarella is a classic crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style.

Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll finish assembling this mouthwatering casserole, share some tips to make it your own, and bake it to golden perfection! Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this baked ravioli will quickly become your go-to dish.

Step 3: Repeat and Add Parmesan

Now that we’ve got our first delicious layer of ravioli, sauce, and cheese, it’s time to double the fun! Repeat the process with the remaining frozen ravioli, creating a second layer. Spread the rest of the marinara sauce evenly over the top, ensuring every ravioli is covered.

Next, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over this second layer. To finish, add a sprinkle of ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese on top. This final touch gives the dish a beautifully golden and slightly crispy topping as it bakes. The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan creates a perfect balance of gooeyness and savory richness that’s hard to resist.

Step 4: Cover and Bake

Here’s where the magic happens! Cover your baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes, allowing the ravioli to heat through and the cheese to start melting.

After 20 minutes, carefully remove the foil (watch out for steam!) and return the dish to the oven. Bake uncovered for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown. If you’re like me and love that slightly crispy, browned cheese layer, you can switch on the broiler for the last 2–3 minutes—just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn.

Step 5: Rest and Garnish

Once your casserole is done baking, resist the urge to dig in right away! Let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the layers to settle and makes serving much easier. Trust me, the wait is worth it—you’ll get perfect slices without the sauce spilling everywhere.

For a fresh and flavorful finishing touch, sprinkle chopped parsley, basil, oregano, or thyme over the top before serving. These fresh herbs not only add a pop of color but also enhance the dish’s aroma and flavor.

Tips to Make This Recipe Your Own

One of the best things about this baked ravioli recipe is how easily it can be customized to suit your tastes or the ingredients you have on hand. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

1. Add Meat for Extra Heft:
   Love a meatier dish? Stir in some cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded rotisserie chicken to your marinara sauce before layering. It adds a hearty, protein-packed twist that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
2. Veggie Boost:
   Sneak in some veggies by layering sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini slices between the ravioli and sauce. It’s a great way to make this dish a little healthier while still keeping it indulgent.
3. Switch Up the Sauce:
   While marinara sauce is a classic choice, don’t be afraid to experiment with Alfredo sauce, pesto, or even a vodka sauce for a fun variation.
4. Cheese Lover’s Paradise:
   Take the cheesiness up a notch by adding a layer of ricotta or cottage cheese seasoned with Italian herbs between the ravioli layers.
5. Make It Spicy:
   If you’re a fan of heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle some spicy marinara sauce over the layers.

Pro Tips for Perfect Baked Ravioli

• Use Quality Ingredients: With just four main ingredients, their quality matters. Opt for a flavorful marinara sauce and a high-quality cheese blend for the best results.
• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Letting the dish sit after baking ensures that the sauce thickens slightly, making serving and eating much easier.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge (covered) for up to 24 hours. This makes it an ideal dish for meal prep or when hosting a dinner party.
• Freezer Friendly: Double the recipe and freeze one unbaked dish for later. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh ravioli works perfectly in this recipe! Just reduce the covered baking time by about 5 minutes since fresh pasta cooks faster than frozen.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, add an extra 5–10 minutes to the cooking time to account for the dish being cold.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover baked ravioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

4. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, baked ravioli is freezer-friendly. You can freeze it either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. If freezing leftovers, store them in an airtight container and thaw before reheating.

5. Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?
Definitely! This recipe is a great base for customization. Add cooked meat, sautéed veggies, or different sauces to switch things up. Just make sure to layer everything evenly for the best results.

6. What should I serve with baked ravioli?
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and a side of garlic bread or dinner rolls. For a complete Italian-inspired meal, consider adding a bowl of minestrone soup or roasted vegetables.

7. What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
No problem! You can substitute with Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even an extra sprinkle of mozzarella. Each brings its own unique flavor to the dish.

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Conclusion

There you have it: a simple, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious 4-Ingredient Baked Ravioli recipe that’s destined to become a family favorite. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, casual dinner parties, or even meal prep. The best part? It’s endlessly customizable, so you can make it your own every time you whip it up.

Whether you keep it classic with marinara and mozzarella or get creative with new ingredients, this dish is guaranteed to impress. And don’t forget to let us know how it turns out! Did you add your own twist, like spicy sausage or a creamy Alfredo sauce? We’d love to hear your ideas in the comments below.

So go ahead, grab your baking dish, and get ready to serve up a warm, cheesy, comforting dinner that’s as easy to make as it is to devour. Your family—and your taste buds—will thank you! 🍝

Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!

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Ready to try this recipe? Don’t forget to share your creations and tag us on social media. We can’t wait to see your baked ravioli masterpieces!

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Easy 4-Ingredient Baked Ravioli Recipe: A Perfect Weeknight Dinner

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• Author: Hamza
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This 4-Ingredient Baked Ravioli is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights. With frozen ravioli, marinara sauce, and two types of cheese, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing meal that’s ready in no time. Simple to prepare and perfect for families, this casserole delivers hearty, cheesy layers of deliciousness. Customize it with your favorite add-ins like ground beef, spinach, or mushrooms for a personal touch. Enjoy a warm, satisfying dinner with minimal effort and maximum flavor!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 24-ounce package frozen cheese ravioli
• 24-ounce jar marinara sauce (about 2 ½ cups)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or Italian cheese blend)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional garnish: chopped fresh herbs (parsley, basil, oregano, or thyme)

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Instructions

• Preheat Oven:
  Preheat your oven to 400°F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish (or two 8-inch dishes) with cooking spray.
• Layer the First Half:
  Pour about ½ cup of marinara sauce into the bottom of the baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Arrange half of the frozen ravioli in a single layer over the sauce.
• Add Sauce and Cheese:
  Top the ravioli with half of the remaining marinara sauce and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
• Repeat Layers:
  Add another layer of ravioli, followed by the remaining marinara sauce, and sprinkle the top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
• Bake Covered:
  Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
• Bake Uncovered:
  Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
• Rest and Serve:
  Let the dish stand for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

• Make Ahead: Assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Add 5–10 minutes to the baking time when cooking straight from the fridge.
• Freezing Instructions: Assemble and freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
• Customizations: Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or sautéed vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition. Swap marinara sauce with pesto or Alfredo for a unique twist.

• Prep Time: 10
• Cook Time: 45