Name: Baked Cheesy Ravioli with Marinara
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 9 ounces cheese ravioli (fresh or frozen, your choice); 2 cups marinara sauce (rich and flavorful, store-bought or homemade); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for that perfect melt); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds sharp, nutty notes); 1 tablespoon olive oil (to lightly grease the baking dish and enhance flavor); 1 teaspoon garlic powder (warms up the sauce with subtle garlic flavor); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (a blend of herbs for that classic Italian touch); Salt and pepper (to taste); Fresh basil leaves (for garnish and a pop of color)

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There’s something irresistibly comforting about a warm, bubbly dish of Baked Cheesy Ravioli with Marinara. This recipe takes tender cheese ravioli and layers it with a rich, tangy marinara sauce, then blankets it with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses before baking to golden perfection. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug on a plate—simple to prepare, yet impressive enough for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned pasta lover or just looking for a new twist on a classic, this baked ravioli dish will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Why Cooks Rave About It

This Baked Cheesy Ravioli with Marinara hits all the right notes. First, it’s incredibly easy to make—no boiling pasta from scratch or complicated steps. Using pre-made cheese ravioli means you’re just a handful of ingredients away from a satisfying meal. The combination of marinara sauce infused with garlic powder and Italian seasoning creates a flavorful base that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheeses. Baking the dish allows the sauce to meld into the ravioli while the top layer crisps up with a golden, cheesy crust. It’s a fuss-free comfort food that delivers big on flavor and texture, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or when you want a cozy meal with minimal effort.

Ingredient Checklist

9 ounces cheese ravioli – fresh or frozen, your choice
2 cups marinara sauce – rich and flavorful, store-bought or homemade
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – for that perfect melt
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds sharp, nutty notes
1 tablespoon olive oil – to lightly grease the baking dish and enhance flavor
1 teaspoon garlic powder – warms up the sauce with subtle garlic flavor
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – a blend of herbs for that classic Italian touch
Salt and pepper – to taste
Fresh basil leaves – for garnish and a pop of color

Cook’s Kit

Baking dish – an 8×8 inch or similar size works best
Mixing bowl – for tossing ravioli with seasonings and sauce
Measuring cups and spoons – to get ingredient ratios just right
Grater – if grating fresh Parmesan
Oven mitts – safety first when handling hot dishes
Spatula or large spoon – for mixing and serving

Step-by-Step: Baked Cheesy Ravioli with Marinara

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and add a subtle richness to your dish.

Step 2: Combine Ravioli and Sauce

In a mixing bowl, gently toss the 9 ounces of cheese ravioli with 2 cups of marinara sauce, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Make sure every ravioli is coated in the flavorful sauce.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

Transfer the saucy ravioli into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the top with 1 cup shredded mozzarella and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a vibrant finish. Serve warm and enjoy!

Smart Substitutions

Cheese ravioli: Swap for spinach or mushroom ravioli if you prefer a veggie twist.
Mozzarella cheese: Use provolone or fontina for a different melt and flavor profile.
Parmesan cheese: Try Pecorino Romano for a sharper, saltier bite.
Marinara sauce: Substitute with a creamy Alfredo sauce for a luscious alternative—try this Alfredo Sauce Recipe for inspiration.
Italian seasoning: Replace with fresh chopped oregano, basil, and thyme.

Things That Go Wrong

Ravioli sticking together: Toss ravioli gently with sauce to prevent clumping before baking.
Soggy top layer: Make sure to spread cheese evenly and bake uncovered to get that desirable golden crust.
Undercooked ravioli: If using frozen ravioli, consider boiling briefly before baking to ensure tenderness.
Bland flavor: Don’t skip the garlic powder and Italian seasoning—they’re key to a well-rounded sauce.

Best Ways to Store

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze baked portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through to preserve texture and flavor.

Ask the Chef

Can I use frozen ravioli straight from the package?

Absolutely! If using frozen ravioli, you can bake it directly, but to ensure tenderness, consider boiling it for 1-2 minutes before tossing with the sauce. This helps avoid any undercooked centers.

What’s the best marinara sauce to use?

Choose a marinara sauce that’s rich and flavorful but not overly sweet. You can use store-bought for convenience or make your own from scratch. For a fresh twist, try the Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini recipe, which features a delicious tomato basil sauce that works beautifully in baked dishes.

Can I add protein like chicken or sausage?

Yes! Cooked and crumbled chicken sausage or shredded rotisserie chicken can be mixed in with the ravioli and sauce before baking to add heartiness without overpowering the cheesy goodness.

What’s the secret to getting a crispy top layer?

Use a combination of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top and avoid covering the dish while baking. This allows the cheese to brown evenly and form a delightful crust.

One Pan, More Ideas

Alfredo Sauce Recipe – swap marinara for a creamy white sauce for a decadent baked pasta dish.
Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini – a great alternative using tortellini with a lush tomato basil sauce.
Roasted vegetables – add zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the baking dish for extra nutrients and flavor.
Spicy twist – sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce for a kick of heat that pairs wonderfully with cheese.

Ready, Set, Cook

Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and dive into making this luscious Baked Cheesy Ravioli with Marinara. The steps are straightforward, and the result is a dish that’s rich in flavor and texture—comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to satisfy cravings and brighten any mealtime. Don’t forget the fresh basil garnish—it adds that perfect finishing touch of color and aroma. Happy baking!

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