Name: Easy Ravioli Lasagna Bake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; ½ tsp kosher salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp Italian Seasoning; ⅛ tsp fennel seeds; ¼ tsp red pepper; 2 garlic cloves; 4 cups marinara sauce; 24 oz frozen cheese ravioli; 2 cups Mozzarella cheese; 1 cup ricotta cheese; ⅓ cup parmesan cheese

This easy ravioli lasagna bake is a delightful twist on classic lasagna, combining layers of cheesy goodness with hearty marinara sauce and tender ravioli. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, this dish is both comforting and satisfying. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you'll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.

Photos of Easy Ravioli Lasagna Bake Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe may not be common in every household, such as fennel seeds and ricotta cheese. When you head to the supermarket, make sure to pick up these items as they add a unique flavor and texture to the dish. Italian seasoning is also key for that authentic taste, so don't forget to grab that as well.

Ingredients for Easy Ravioli Lasagna Bake

lean ground beef: Provides a hearty and flavorful base for the dish.

kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor.

black pepper: Adds a hint of spice.

italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the dish its classic Italian flavor.

fennel seeds: Adds a subtle, sweet, and aromatic flavor.

red pepper: Brings a touch of heat to the dish.

garlic cloves: Infuses the sauce with rich, aromatic flavor.

marinara sauce: A tomato-based sauce that forms the base of the lasagna layers.

frozen cheese ravioli: Serves as the pasta and cheese layers, making the dish easy to assemble.

mozzarella cheese: Provides a gooey, melty texture on top.

ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and richness to the layers.

parmesan cheese: Gives a salty and nutty finish to the dish.

One reader, Eleanor Hummel says:

This easy ravioli lasagna bake recipe is a game-changer! The layers of cheesy goodness and flavorful beef make it a family favorite. Simple to prepare and absolutely delicious. Highly recommend!

Eleanor Hummel

Techniques Required for Making Easy Ravioli Lasagna Bake

How to brown ground beef: Heat the skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef, and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink.

How to crush garlic: Place the garlic cloves under the flat side of a knife and press down firmly to crush them. Remove the skins and chop finely.

How to layer ingredients in a baking dish: Start with a layer of sauce, followed by ravioli, more sauce, mozzarella cheese, and ricotta cheese. Repeat the layers as instructed.

How to bake covered and uncovered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for the specified time. Then, remove the foil and continue baking to allow the top to brown.

How To Make Easy Ravioli Lasagna Bake

Enjoy a savory plate of ravioli lasagna, made with cheesy ravioli and tender ground beef, and simmered in a seasoned marinara, for a fuller meal!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour 15 minutes

Total: 1 hour 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lblean ground beef,(80/20)
½tspkosher salt
¼tspblack pepper
½tspItalian seasoning
⅛tspfennel seeds,optional
¼tspred pepper,crushed
2garlic cloves,minced
4cupsmarinara sauce
24ozfrozen cheese ravioli,unthawed
2cupsmozzarella cheese,shredded
1cupricotta cheese
⅓cupparmesan cheese

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Add the ground beef to a large heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add in the salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, fennel seeds, and crushed red pepper.
Toss in the beef, then break it beef apart and brown well. Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds. Then, pour in the marinara sauce, and stir.
In a large baking dish, add a layer of one quarter of the sauce, half the ravioli, another quarter of the sauce, a third of the mozzarella cheese and half the ricotta cheese.
Add a second layer, with the rest of the ravioli, another quarter of the sauce, a third of the mozzarella cheese and the rest of the ricotta cheese.
Top with remaining sauce, remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake covered for 1 hour, then uncovered for another 15 minutes.
Serve warm, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 504.19kcal
Fat: 27.39g
Saturated Fat: 14.19g
Trans Fat: 0.45g
Monounsaturated Fat: 8.95g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.35g
Carbohydrates: 35.35g
Fiber: 2.71g
Sugar: 5.91g
Protein: 28.59g
Cholesterol: 104.31mg
Sodium: 1005.72mg
Calcium: 459.69mg
Potassium: 494.86mg
Iron: 2.54mg
Vitamin A: 170.97µg
Vitamin C: 2.02mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Your Ravioli Lasagna Bake

When browning the ground beef, make sure to break it into small, even pieces to ensure it cooks evenly and develops a nice, caramelized crust. This will add depth of flavor to your marinara sauce and enhance the overall taste of the ravioli lasagna bake.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Ravioli Lasagna Bake

Use pre-cooked ground beef: Cook the ground beef ahead of time and store it in the fridge. This will save you time when assembling the dish.

Buy pre-minced garlic: Using pre-minced garlic from a jar can save you the hassle of peeling and chopping fresh cloves.

Opt for store-bought marinara: Choose a high-quality, store-bought marinara sauce to cut down on preparation time.

Layer efficiently: Lay out all your ingredients before you start assembling the lasagna to streamline the process.

Use a food processor: Quickly shred mozzarella cheese and parmesan cheese using a food processor to save time.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Ravioli Lasagna Bake Recipe

lean ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and provides a similar texture and flavor.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a similar taste.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a slightly milder flavor but will still add the necessary heat.
italian seasoning - Substitute with herbes de Provence: Herbes de Provence includes a mix of herbs that can provide a similar aromatic profile.
fennel seeds - Substitute with anise seeds: Anise seeds have a similar licorice-like flavor and can be used in the same quantity.
red pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper will add a similar level of heat and spice.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove to maintain the garlic flavor.
marinara sauce - Substitute with tomato sauce: Tomato sauce can be seasoned with Italian herbs to mimic marinara sauce.
frozen cheese ravioli - Substitute with fresh cheese tortellini: Fresh cheese tortellini will provide a similar cheesy filling and pasta texture.
mozzarella cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone cheese melts well and has a similar mild flavor.
ricotta cheese - Substitute with cottage cheese: Cottage cheese can be blended to achieve a similar creamy texture.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar sharp and salty flavor.

Presenting Your Ravioli Lasagna Bake

Serve smaller portion sizes: Plate a delicate portion of the ravioli lasagna to ensure it looks refined and elegant. Use a ring mold to create a neat, cylindrical shape.
Use decoration: Garnish the dish with a sprig of fresh basil and a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil around the plate for a touch of sophistication.
Layer presentation: Highlight the layers by slightly offsetting the top layer of ravioli to reveal the ricotta cheese and marinara sauce beneath.
Add texture: Sprinkle a small amount of toasted breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan cheese on top for an added crunch and visual appeal.
Color contrast: Use a white plate to make the vibrant red of the marinara sauce and the golden brown of the baked mozzarella cheese stand out.
Fresh herbs: Finely chop some fresh parsley or oregano and sprinkle it over the dish for a burst of color and freshness.
Sauce artistry: Create a small pool of marinara sauce on the side of the plate and use a brush to create artistic strokes for a professional touch.
Cheese pull effect: Ensure the mozzarella cheese is melted perfectly to achieve a tantalizing cheese pull effect when the dish is served.
Accompanying elements: Serve with a side of lightly dressed arugula salad to add a fresh, peppery contrast to the rich flavors of the ravioli lasagna.
Final touch: Finish with a light dusting of finely grated parmesan cheese over the entire dish for an elegant, snowy effect.

Essential Tools for Making Ravioli Lasagna Bake

Oven: Used to bake the ravioli lasagna at the specified temperature for the required duration.
Large heavy skillet: Essential for browning the ground beef and mixing it with the seasonings and marinara sauce.
Garlic press: Handy for crushing the garlic cloves to release their full flavor.
Wooden spoon: Useful for breaking apart the ground beef and stirring the sauce.
Large baking dish: Needed to layer the ravioli, sauce, and cheeses for baking.
Measuring spoons: Important for accurately measuring the salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, fennel seeds, and red pepper.
Measuring cups: Necessary for measuring the marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, and parmesan cheese.
Aluminum foil: Used to cover the baking dish during the initial baking period.
Knife: Required for chopping or mincing the garlic cloves.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the garlic.
Spatula: Useful for spreading the sauce and cheeses evenly in the baking dish.
Oven mitts: Essential for safely handling the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.

Storing and Freezing Ravioli Lasagna Bake

Let the ravioli lasagna cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the dish soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. The lasagna will keep well for up to 4 days in the fridge.
For longer storage, freeze the lasagna:
- Cut the cooled lasagna into individual portions.
- Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
To reheat refrigerated lasagna:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the desired portion in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil.
- Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.
To reheat frozen lasagna:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the frozen portion in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil.
- Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
- Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking for a crispy top, if desired.
Alternatively, you can thaw the frozen lasagna in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This will reduce the reheating time in the oven.

How To Reheat Leftover Ravioli Lasagna Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover lasagna in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lasagna is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. This method ensures that the lasagna heats evenly and the cheese melts perfectly, giving you a delicious, comforting meal.
If you're short on time, you can use the microwave to reheat your leftover ravioli lasagna. Place a single serving of lasagna on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the lasagna is heated through. Be careful not to overheat the lasagna, as it can cause the pasta to become rubbery and the cheese to become tough.
For a crispy top layer, reheat the lasagna in the oven as mentioned above, but remove the aluminum foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking. This will allow the mozzarella and parmesan cheese to brown and crisp up, giving your leftover lasagna a delightful texture contrast.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat smaller portions of lasagna. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place a slice of lasagna on a toaster oven-safe dish. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the lasagna is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. This method is perfect for quick, single-serving reheating.
For a unique twist, try transforming your leftover ravioli lasagna into a new dish. Cut the cold lasagna into bite-sized pieces and heat them in a skillet with a little bit of olive oil until crispy. Serve the crispy lasagna bites as an appetizer or top them with a fried egg for a delicious breakfast option.

Random Fact About Ravioli Lasagna Bake

A fun fact about this recipe is that using frozen cheese ravioli instead of traditional lasagna noodles not only simplifies the preparation process but also adds an extra layer of cheesy goodness.

Is Making Ravioli Lasagna Bake at Home Cost-Effective?

This easy ravioli lasagna bake recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Using lean ground beef, frozen cheese ravioli, and marinara sauce keeps expenses low while delivering a hearty meal. The combination of mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan cheese adds richness without breaking the bank. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost in USD for a household of 4 people: $20-$25.

Is Ravioli Lasagna Bake Healthy or Unhealthy?

The easy ravioli lasagna bake recipe is a comforting and delicious dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to several factors:

The recipe uses ground beef, which is high in saturated fat and calories. While lean ground beef is used, it still contributes to the overall fat content of the dish.
The dish is heavy on cheese, including mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan. Cheese is high in saturated fat and calories, which can contribute to weight gain and increased risk of heart disease if consumed in excess.
The recipe calls for a significant amount of marinara sauce, which may contain added sugars and sodium, depending on the brand or homemade recipe used.
The frozen cheese ravioli is likely high in carbohydrates and may contain added preservatives and ingredients.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Swap the ground beef for a leaner protein source, such as ground turkey or chicken. You could also use a plant-based alternative, like crumbled tofu or lentils, to reduce the saturated fat content and increase the fiber.
Reduce the amount of cheese used in the recipe, particularly the mozzarella and parmesan. Opt for low-fat or part-skim varieties of ricotta and mozzarella to further decrease the saturated fat content.
Choose a low-sodium, low-sugar marinara sauce or make your own using fresh tomatoes, herbs, and spices. This will help control the amount of added sugars and sodium in the dish.
Consider using whole-wheat or vegetable-based ravioli to increase the fiber content and nutritional value of the dish. You could also prepare the ravioli from scratch using whole-grain flour and a healthier filling.
Incorporate more vegetables into the recipe, such as spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms, to increase the fiber, vitamin, and mineral content of the dish. These can be added to the layers or even blended into the marinara sauce for a sneaky nutrient boost.

Editor's Thoughts on This Ravioli Lasagna Bake Recipe

This easy ravioli lasagna bake recipe is a delightful fusion of convenience and classic flavors. Using frozen cheese ravioli simplifies the process, while the combination of marinara sauce, seasoned ground beef, and a trio of cheeses creates a rich, comforting dish. The fennel seeds add a subtle, aromatic depth, and the layering technique ensures a perfect blend of textures and tastes in every bite. Baking it covered first ensures the ravioli cooks through, and uncovering it at the end allows the cheese to achieve a golden, bubbly finish. It's a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal that's both simple and satisfying.

Enhance Your Easy Ravioli Lasagna Bake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: Golden Garlic Bread: Imagine the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen, each slice infused with a buttery garlic spread and a sprinkle of parsley. This crispy delight is the perfect companion to your ravioli lasagna bake, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite.

Caesar Salad: Classic Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in a creamy Caesar dressing, topped with crunchy croutons and a generous shaving of parmesan cheese. This refreshing salad adds a burst of freshness and a delightful contrast to the rich, cheesy layers of your main dish.

Roasted Vegetables: Herb-Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers, roasted to perfection with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs. These vibrant, caramelized veggies bring a touch of earthiness and color to your plate.

Caprese Salad: Caprese Salad: Juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil leaves, drizzled with a balsamic reduction and a hint of olive oil. This simple yet elegant salad offers a burst of flavor and a refreshing counterpoint to the hearty lasagna bake.

Tiramisu: Decadent Tiramisu: End your meal on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert. Layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone cheese, dusted with a generous amount of cocoa powder. This indulgent treat is the perfect finale to your Italian feast.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Ravioli Lasagna Bake

Baked Ziti With Sausage: Dive into this comforting dish of baked ziti with Italian sausage, layered with gooey mozzarella and rich ricotta cheese. It's a hearty meal perfect for any night of the week.

Stuffed Shells With Spinach And Ricotta: These jumbo pasta shells are stuffed with a creamy mixture of ricotta cheese and spinach, then baked in a savory marinara sauce. A delightful vegetarian option that's sure to please.

Chicken Alfredo Lasagna: A twist on the classic, this chicken alfredo lasagna features layers of tender chicken, creamy alfredo sauce, and lasagna noodles. Topped with melted parmesan and mozzarella, it's a decadent treat.

Eggplant Parmesan Casserole: For a vegetarian delight, try this eggplant parmesan casserole. Slices of eggplant are breaded, fried, and layered with marinara sauce and cheese, then baked to perfection.

Beef And Cheese Manicotti: Manicotti pasta tubes are stuffed with a savory mixture of ground beef and cheese, then baked in a rich tomato sauce. It's a comforting and satisfying meal for any occasion.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Your Ravioli Lasagna Bake

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these delectable stuffed mushrooms. Imagine plump mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic, and herbs, all bound together with a touch of cream cheese. The mushrooms are then baked to perfection, resulting in a golden, crispy top and a juicy, flavorful interior. Serve these stuffed mushrooms warm, and watch them disappear in no time.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to Italy with a classic bruschetta. Start with slices of toasted baguette, rubbed with a hint of garlic. Top each slice with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. A sprinkle of sea salt and a dash of balsamic glaze complete this simple yet elegant appetizer. Perfect for any gathering, this bruschetta is sure to impress.

Desserts:

Tiramisu: Indulge in the classic Tiramisu with a twist. Imagine layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers intertwined with a rich, creamy mascarpone mixture. Add a hint of dark chocolate for an extra touch of decadence. The final flourish? A dusting of cocoa powder that melts in your mouth, leaving a lingering taste of coffee and cream. Perfect for a sophisticated end to your meal.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Brighten your table with a Lemon Meringue Pie that balances tart and sweet. A buttery, flaky crust cradles a tangy lemon curd filling, topped with a cloud of toasted meringue. The lemon zest adds a burst of freshness, while the golden peaks of meringue offer a delightful contrast in texture. This dessert is a sunshine-filled treat that will leave your guests craving more.

Why trust this Easy Ravioli Lasagna Bake Recipe:

This easy ravioli lasagna bake recipe is a must-try for busy weeknights. With lean ground beef and a blend of Italian seasonings, it offers a rich, savory flavor. The combination of mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan cheeses ensures a creamy, cheesy delight in every bite. Using frozen cheese ravioli simplifies the process, making it quick and convenient. Plus, the step-by-step instructions guarantee a foolproof dish that even novice cooks can master. Trust this recipe for a comforting, delicious meal that will impress your family and friends.

Share your thoughts on this Easy Ravioli Lasagna Bake Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?

Yes, you can definitely use fresh ravioli. Just keep in mind that fresh ravioli might cook a bit faster, so you might want to reduce the baking time slightly to avoid overcooking.

Can I substitute ground beef with another type of meat?

Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute if you prefer. Just adjust the seasoning to taste.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the lasagna bake ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.

What can I serve with this ravioli lasagna bake?

A simple green salad and some garlic bread would be perfect sides. You could also serve it with steamed vegetables or a light soup.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through.