Discover the ultimate comfort food with this easy Ravioli Lasagna Recipe. This dish cleverly combines the cheesy goodness of ravioli with the rich, savory flavors of a classic lasagna, minus the fuss of traditional pasta sheets. It’s a family-friendly weeknight wonder that delivers layers of flavor and texture in every bite. Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or when you just need a hearty meal. This ravioli lasagna is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings Italian-inspired deliciousness to your table without the usual lengthy preparation.
20 Minutes
50 Minutes
1 Hour 10 Minutes
8
Why This Recipe Works
- Uses frozen ravioli for a major shortcut, saving time and effort.
- The creamy ricotta filling provides a luscious texture that complements the meaty sauce.
- Layering is simplified, making the assembly process straightforward for any cook.
- Rich marinara sauce infused with garlic creates a comforting and savory depth of flavor.
- Melty mozzarella on top makes this ravioli lasagna a visually appealing and delicious masterpiece.
Ingredients
Gathering these ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful ravioli lasagna. The foundation is built with good quality ground beef and a zesty marinara sauce, while the creamy ricotta mixture brings everything together. Fresh parsley adds a touch of brightness that cuts through the richness of the cheese and meat.
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup shredded parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 25 ounces frozen cheese ravioli
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
Here are a few notes to help you get the best results from this recipe.
- Ricotta: Whole milk ricotta will give the creamiest texture, but part-skim works too.
- Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought marinara or a homemade version. A good quality sauce makes a big difference.
- Frozen Ravioli: Do not thaw the ravioli before layering; they will cook perfectly in the oven. Any cheese-filled ravioli will work.
- Fresh Parsley: While dried parsley can be used in the ricotta mixture, fresh parsley adds a much brighter flavor.
How to Make Ravioli Lasagna
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray a 13×9 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Meat Sauce
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until it’s fully browned. Carefully drain off any excess grease from the pan.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Stir the minced garlic and marinara sauce into the skillet with the browned beef and onions. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
While the meat sauce is simmering, combine the ricotta cheese, large egg, shredded Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder in a separate small bowl. Mix everything together until well combined and smooth.
Step 5: Begin Layering
Spread about one-third of the meat sauce mixture evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This forms the base of your ravioli lasagna.
Step 6: Add the First Ravioli Layer
Arrange a single layer of the frozen cheese ravioli directly on top of the meat sauce. Try to place them in a single layer, with minimal overlap.
Step 7: Add Ricotta and Sauce
Dollop half of the prepared ricotta cheese mixture over the ravioli layer and spread it out as evenly as possible. Spoon about one-third of the remaining meat sauce over the ricotta mixture.
Step 8: Repeat Layers
Add another layer of frozen ravioli on top of the sauce. Spoon the remaining half of the ricotta mixture over this ravioli layer, followed by another third of the meat sauce.
Step 9: Final Ravioli and Sauce Layer
Top with a final single layer of frozen ravioli. Pour the last of the meat sauce over the ravioli, ensuring it’s mostly covered.
Step 10: Add Mozzarella and Bake Covered
Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top layer of sauce. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes.
Step 11: Bake Uncovered
Carefully remove the aluminum foil from the baking dish. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden.
Step 12: Rest and Garnish
Remove the ravioli lasagna from the oven. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes before cutting and serving. This allows the layers to set. Sprinkle with fresh minced parsley for a touch of color and freshness just before serving.
Pro Tips
- Don’t Overcrowd the Ravioli: While a little overlap is fine, try to arrange the frozen ravioli in a mostly single layer for even cooking and better texture.
- Sauce Consistency: If your marinara sauce is very thick, you can add a tablespoon or two of water or broth to thin it slightly before simmering, ensuring it coats the ravioli well.
- Resting is Key: Allowing the ravioli lasagna to rest after baking is crucial. It helps the layers firm up, making it much easier to serve neat slices without everything falling apart.
- Cheese Boost: For an extra cheesy top, consider adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese along with the mozzarella before the final uncovered bake.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty ravioli lasagna is a complete meal on its own, but pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides.
- Serve with a fresh green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the lasagna.
- Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from your plate.
- A side of steamed or roasted broccoli or green beans adds a healthy vegetable component.
- Enjoy with a glass of chilled water or a mild, fruity juice.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover ravioli lasagna tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For the best reheating results, cover individual portions with foil and bake in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual servings on a microwave-safe plate until hot, though the texture might be slightly softer.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble this ravioli lasagna up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the covered baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze this recipe?
This ravioli lasagna freezes well! Assemble and bake it as directed, let it cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I serve with this recipe?
This hearty dish pairs perfectly with a simple green salad, crusty garlic bread, or a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. It’s a complete and satisfying meal.
How do I keep this recipe from drying out?
To prevent it from drying out, ensure your sauce is not too thick before assembling. Also, covering it tightly with foil for the majority of the baking time traps steam and moisture, keeping the ravioli and cheeses tender.
More Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this Ravioli Lasagna Recipe, be sure to check out these other delicious family favorites!
- Easy Pizza Pasta Bake
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
- Chipotle Sauce Meatballs
- Garlic Rosemary Bread Recipe
Final Thoughts
This Ravioli Lasagna Recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly spectacular. It’s the perfect blend of comforting textures and rich, savory flavors that your whole family will adore. Its ease of preparation makes it ideal for busy weeknights, yet it’s elegant enough for guests. Skip the tedious layering of traditional lasagna and opt for this delightful shortcut. Give this ravioli lasagna a try and make your next meal a memorable one!
PrintRavioli Lasagna Recipe
Combine the cheesy goodness of ravioli with the rich, savory flavors of a classic lasagna in this family-friendly dish. Easy to assemble and perfect for weeknights or potlucks, it delivers layers of flavor without the usual hassle.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 h 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
24 ounces marinara sauce
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups ricotta cheese
1 large egg
¼ cup shredded parmesan cheese
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
25 ounces frozen cheese ravioli
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat
Add the diced onion and saute until softened
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds
Pour in the marinara sauce and bring to a simmer
Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer while you prepare the ricotta mixture
In a bowl, combine ricotta, egg, parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder
Mix well until smooth
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom
Arrange a layer of frozen ravioli evenly over the sauce
Spoon half of the ricotta mixture over the ravioli
Sprinkle a small amount of mozzarella cheese over the ricotta layer
Repeat the layers: sauce, ravioli, ricotta mixture, mozzarella cheese
Top the final layer with marinara sauce and a full layer of mozzarella cheese
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes
Uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is bubbly and lightly golden
Allow the ravioli lasagna to rest for 5 minutes before serving
Notes
Use frozen cheese ravioli to save prep time
The layers can be assembled ahead of time and baked later as needed
Leftover lasagna can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months