Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 package (about 20 oz) cheese ravioli (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce (use thicker sauce if possible)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ravioli: Cook the ravioli according to package instructions until just tender. Drain thoroughly and set aside to prevent mushiness during baking.
- Mix the Cheese Sauce: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sour cream, half of the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Stir until smooth and creamy, forming the flavorful cheese mixture.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange half of the cooked ravioli over the sauce. Spread half of the cheese mixture on top, followed by dollops of marinara sauce. Repeat the layers with the remaining ravioli and cheese mixture, finishing with a layer of marinara sauce.
- Top with Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Let it Rest Before Serving: Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes. This helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and enhancing the flavor melding.
Notes
- Use fresh ravioli when possible for a more delicate texture.
- Do not overcook ravioli before baking to maintain shape and texture.
- Combine cheeses well for a richer flavor and creamier sauce.
- Use thicker marinara sauce to avoid excess moisture and watery casserole.
- Allow casserole to rest after baking to improve slicing and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free ravioli used)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: ravioli casserole, cheesy pasta bake, creamy ravioli, easy weeknight dinner, comfort food, Italian casserole