Description
This Easy Baked Ravioli casserole combines rich layers of cheese-filled ravioli, savory ground beef, tangy pasta sauce, and creamy cheeses baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, this recipe is simple to prepare and satisfying to eat.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 (32-oz) jar pasta sauce
Cheese and Pasta Layers
- 2 pounds refrigerated or frozen cheese ravioli (do not thaw if frozen)
- 1 (8-oz) tub cream cheese spread or ricotta cheese
- 1 (8-oz) bag shredded mozzarella cheese
- Grated parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Dish: Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the lean ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if desired. Stir in the entire jar of pasta sauce and cook until heated through.
- Layer the Sauce: Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce evenly over the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
- Assemble Layers: Add one-third of the ravioli evenly over the sauce layer. Top with one-third of the meat sauce, then dot with one-third of the cream cheese. Sprinkle one-third of the shredded mozzarella evenly on top. Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with mozzarella on top.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and the casserole is bubbly. During the last 5 minutes, you can add extra mozzarella and sprinkle grated parmesan cheese on top for additional flavor and browning.
Notes
- You can use either cream cheese spread or ricotta cheese depending on your preference for creaminess and texture.
- If using frozen ravioli, do not thaw before assembling the casserole.
- For a richer dish, add extra mozzarella and parmesan cheese during the final minutes of baking.
- This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
