Description
Ravioli Lasagna is a delicious twist on traditional lasagna, using fresh or frozen ravioli as the pasta layers. This easy-to-make baked dish combines layers of cheesy ricotta, mozzarella, marinara sauce, and parmesan with flavorful herbs for a comforting Italian-inspired meal perfect for feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
Scale
Ravioli
- 12 oz fresh or frozen ravioli (your choice of filling)
Sauces and Cheeses
- 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Herbs and Seasoning
- 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature for baking the lasagna evenly.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent the lasagna from sticking during baking.
- Spread Sauce Base: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of the baking dish to provide moisture and flavor for the ravioli.
- First Layer: Arrange half of the ravioli over the marinara sauce layer. Then spread half of the ricotta cheese mixed with salt, pepper, and herbs on top of the ravioli. Finish this layer by sprinkling half of the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly.
- Second Layer: Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients: spread another layer of marinara sauce, layer the remaining ravioli, spread the remaining ricotta mixture, add more marinara sauce, and top with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (shiny side down) to keep moisture in and bake for 25 minutes. This allows the ravioli to cook through and the cheeses to melt.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the lasagna is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown and slightly crisp on top.
- Cool and Serve: Let the lasagna cool briefly for easier slicing and serving. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese if desired before serving.
Notes
- You can use any ravioli filling you prefer, such as cheese, spinach, or meat.
- If using frozen ravioli, do not thaw before assembling; they will cook during baking.
- Fresh herbs like basil add a bright flavor but can be substituted with dried herbs if needed (use less).
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For a vegetarian version, ensure the ravioli filling and sauce are meat-free.
