Easy Cheesy Baked Ravioli Pasta 7 Secrets for Perfect Bake
Easy cheesy baked ravioli pasta is the shortcut dinner that feels like a cozy lasagna without the extra work. The first time I made this ravioli recipe, the smell of bubbling tomato sauce, melted mozzarella, and Parmesan filled the kitchen and instantly reminded me of family pasta dinners. Instead of boiling noodles and preparing layers, all you need is frozen ravioli, a quick homemade sauce, and plenty of cheese. The result is one of the best pasta dinner recipes that is both comforting and effortless.
If you enjoy a hearty beef ravioli recipe, a simple cheese ravioli recipe, or are searching for easy pasta recipes that double as easy casserole recipes, this dish will quickly become your favorite.
Easy Cheesy Baked Ravioli Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a skillet. Brown the beef with chopped onion until fully cooked.
- Add garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Spread a layer of sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Layer half the frozen ravioli, more sauce, and cheese. Repeat layers.
- Top with Parmesan. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until golden and bubbling.
- Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Table of Contents
Why you will love this ravioli recipe
- It tastes just like lasagna but takes a fraction of the time.
- It can be made with beef ravioli recipe variations or vegetarian cheese ravioli.
- It is part of the most reliable pasta dinner recipes for busy families.
- Kids love the gooey cheese and adults appreciate the flavor.
- It can be easily adapted into vegetarische rezepte with spinach or mushroom ravioli.
Ingredients for baked ravioli pasta
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | Butter is an alternative for richer flavor |
| Ground beef or Italian sausage | 1 lb | Swap with turkey or meatless crumbles |
| Onion | 1, chopped | Yellow or white |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | Extra cloves add depth |
| Crushed tomatoes | 28 oz can | Fire roasted for a smoky taste |
| Tomato sauce | 15 oz can | Marinara works too |
| Dried basil | 2 tsp | Fresh if available |
| Dried oregano | 1 tsp | Italian seasoning substitute |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp | Adjust to preference |
| Black pepper | 1/4 tsp | Fresh cracked is best |
| Frozen ravioli | 20 oz package | Cheese, beef, or spinach filled |
| Mozzarella cheese | 2 cups shredded | Freshly grated melts best |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup grated | Romano also works |
| Fresh parsley | Optional garnish | For a bright finish |
How to make baked ravioli pasta
- Cook the sauce. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Brown the beef with onion until cooked through. Stir in garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer at least 10 minutes for the flavors to blend.
- Layer the dish. Spread sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange half the frozen ravioli in a single layer. Add more sauce and cheese. Repeat the layers.
- Bake the casserole. Sprinkle Parmesan on top. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake another 10 to 15 minutes until golden and bubbling.
- Rest and serve. Allow the ravioli bake to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before cutting. Garnish with parsley if desired.
How to serve baked ravioli pasta
This ravioli recipe is filling enough on its own but pairs beautifully with:
- Garlic bread or breadsticks for dipping.
- A green salad with balsamic or Italian dressing.
- Roasted vegetables for a seasonal twist.
- A glass of red wine for an elevated pasta dinner.
Pro tips for the perfect ravioli bake
- Do not thaw the frozen ravioli. Bake straight from the freezer for the best results.
- Add ricotta or cottage cheese between layers if you want a creamier texture.
- Use freshly shredded mozzarella instead of prepackaged.
- Double the recipe when cooking for larger gatherings. This is one of those easy casserole recipes that always disappears fast.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using a watery sauce that makes the casserole runny.
- Forgetting to let the sauce simmer to develop flavor.
- Skipping the resting step before slicing.
- Baking uncovered too long, which can burn the cheese before the center is hot.
Storage and reheating tips
| Storage | Method | Shelf life |
| Fridge | Cover with foil or wrap tightly | 3 to 4 days |
| Freezer | Assemble unbaked and wrap well | 2 to 3 months |
| Reheat | Bake at 350°F covered until hot | 20 to 25 minutes |
Frequently asked questions
Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Yes, just reduce baking time by about 10 minutes.
Is this a vegetarian ravioli recipe?
Yes, make it with cheese or spinach ravioli and it fits into vegetarische rezepte.
Which ravioli filling is best?
Cheese ravioli recipe versions are classic, but beef ravioli adds heartiness, and spinach ravioli keeps it light.
Can I make this pasta dinner ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it one day in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach mix perfectly with the sauce.
Conclusion
Easy cheesy baked ravioli pasta is the kind of comfort food that never disappoints. This ravioli bake is hearty, cheesy, and customizable, making it one of the most dependable pasta dinner recipes for families and gatherings. Whether you try a beef ravioli recipe, a simple cheese ravioli recipe, or create vegetarian variations for your collection of vegetarische rezepte, this dish will always be a crowd favorite. Save this easy pasta recipe for your next weeknight dinner or potluck and watch it disappear from the table.
