Vegetable-and-Ravioli Lasagna Recipe

This delightful recipe takes the classic lasagna and gives it a fresh twist. Instead of regular lasagna sheets, we're using cheese ravioli, which not only adds a cheesy richness but also cuts down on the layers you need to assemble. Mixed roasted or grilled vegetables add a wholesome touch, and the Italian sausage brings a robust flavor.

Photos of Vegetable-and-Ravioli Lasagna Recipe

This recipe calls for fresh cheese ravioli and spinach and cheese ravioli. Most supermarkets carry these in the refrigerated section near the pasta. If you can't find them, feel free to substitute with your favorite frozen ravioli. Just ensure to thaw them before using. For the mixed roasted or grilled vegetables, you can use a combination of bell peppers, zucchinis, eggplant, or any other vegetables you prefer.

Ingredients for Vegetable and Ravioli Lasagna

Extra virgin olive oil: This oil is made from pure, cold-pressed olives, it's richer in taste than regular olive oil.

Sweet Italian pork: This is a type of sausage known for its sweet and slightly spicy flavor.

Marinara sauce: A tomato-based sauce used in Italian-American cuisine.

Fresh cheese ravioli: Small squares of pasta filled with cheese.

Spinach and cheese ravioli: Ravioli filled with a combination of spinach and cheese, offering a delightful contrast.

Mozzarella cheese: This cheese is known for its delicate flavor and stretchy texture.

Parmesan cheese: A hard, dry cheese that has a sharp, nutty flavor.

Mixed roasted or grilled vegetables: A combination of vegetables, which can vary based on your preference, roasted or grilled to bring out their flavors.

One reader, Adriana Aguiar says:

This vegetable and ravioli lasagna recipe is a game-changer! The combination of fresh ravioli, savory sausage, and roasted veggies creates a burst of flavors in every bite. The dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a cozy family dinner. It's a definite winner in my household!

Adriana Aguiar

Techniques Required for Making Lasagna

Preheat the oven: Set the temperature to 375 degrees F.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil: Fill a large pot with water, add salt, and bring it to a rolling boil.

Cook the sausage meat: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan, add the sausage meat, and cook over moderately high heat, stirring and breaking up the lumps with a wooden spoon until no longer pink.

Simmer the marinara sauce: Add the marinara sauce and water to the cooked sausage meat and simmer for 5 minutes.

Cook the ravioli: Add the packages of fresh ravioli to the boiling water and cook until al dente. Drain the ravioli and return them to the pot.

Layer the ravioli and sauce in the baking dish: Spoon ⅓ of the ravioli and sauce into a 3-quart baking dish in an even layer.

Sprinkle with cheese: Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese in between the layers of ravioli and sauce.

Bake the ravioli lasagna: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes until bubbling. Uncover and bake for 25 minutes longer until lightly browned and bubbling.

Let the lasagna stand: Allow the lasagna to stand for 10 minutes before serving.

How To Make Vegetable-and-Ravioli Lasagna

This delicious ravioli lasagna comes with sausage marinara sauce layered with mixed veggies. It’s topped with Parmesan and mozzarella baked until bubbly.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour 5 minutes

Total: 1 hour 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1tbspextra virgin olive oil
4sweet Italian pork,or turkey sausages
1jarmarinara sauce
½cupwater
2pkgfresh cheese ravioli
1pkgfresh spinach and cheese ravioli
12ozmozzarella cheese,(about 3 cups), shredded
3tbspParmesan cheese,freshly grated
1½lbsmixed roasted or grilled vegetables

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil until shimmering.
Add the sausage meat and cook for or turkey sausages over moderately high heat, stirring and breaking up the lumps with a wooden spoon, until no longer pink.
Add the marinara sauce and the water and simmer for 5 minutes.
Add the packages of fresh ravioli to the boiling water and cook until al dente. Drain the ravioli and return them to the pot.
Add the sausage marinara and toss gently with the ravioli to coat.
Spoon ⅓ of the ravioli and sauce into a 3-quart baking dish in an even layer.
Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and 1 tablespoon of Parmesan.
Layer another ⅓ of the ravioli on top, followed by all of the vegetables, 1 cup of mozzarella, and 1 tablespoon of Parmesan.
Top with the remaining ravioli, spooning on any remaining sauce and sausage.
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella and 1 tablespoon of Parmesan on top and cover with foil.
Bake the ravioli lasagna for 30 minutes until bubbling. Uncover and bake for 25 minutes longer until lightly browned and bubbling.
Let the lasagna stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Make-Ahead: The recipe can be prepared and refrigerated overnight. The baked lasagna can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Calories: 814.35kcal
Fat: 32.24g
Saturated Fat: 15.19g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 10.96g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.64g
Carbohydrates: 85.17g
Fiber: 8.33g
Sugar: 6.59g
Protein: 45.66g
Cholesterol: 136.73mg
Sodium: 1364.20mg
Calcium: 585.89mg
Potassium: 1015.74mg
Iron: 5.09mg
Vitamin A: 555.17µg
Vitamin C: 20.87mg

Crucial Technique for Perfecting Lasagna

When preparing the mixed roasted or grilled vegetables for this recipe, try to cut them into similar sizes to ensure even cooking. Also, roasting or grilling the vegetables before adding them to the lasagna will help to remove excess moisture, preventing the lasagna from becoming soggy. Additionally, when layering the lasagna, make sure to spread the ingredients evenly. This will ensure that every bite is full of flavor and that the lasagna cooks evenly. Lastly, remember to let the lasagna stand for a few minutes after baking. This allows the lasagna to set and makes it easier to slice and serve.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Lasagna

Prep ahead: Chop and roast the vegetables in advance to save time. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Use store-bought sauce: Opt for a good quality marinara sauce to save time on making the sauce from scratch.

Double batch: Make a double batch of the lasagna and freeze one for a quick and easy meal later.

Multitask: While the ravioli is boiling, prepare the other components of the lasagna to save time.

Pre-cooked ravioli: Consider using pre-cooked ravioli to save time on boiling the pasta before assembling the lasagna.

One-pan cooking: Use a large skillet to cook the sausage and make the sauce, minimizing the number of dishes to clean up.

Efficient assembly: Organize the ingredients and assembly line to streamline the process of layering the lasagna.

Substitute Ingredients For Vegetable-and-Ravioli Lasagna Recipe

extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar high smoke point and mild flavor, making it a suitable substitute for extra virgin olive oil.
sweet Italian pork - Substitute with sweet Italian turkey sausage: Turkey sausage provides a leaner alternative to pork while still offering the same sweet Italian flavors.
marinara sauce - Substitute with arrabbiata sauce: Arrabbiata sauce adds a spicy kick to the dish, providing a flavorful alternative to marinara sauce.
water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can enhance the overall flavor of the dish while adding depth and richness.
fresh cheese ravioli - Substitute with butternut squash ravioli: Butternut squash ravioli offers a delicious and slightly sweet alternative to traditional cheese ravioli.
fresh spinach and cheese ravioli - Substitute with mushroom and ricotta ravioli: Mushroom and ricotta ravioli provides a savory and earthy alternative to the spinach and cheese ravioli.
mozzarella cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone cheese offers a similar mild flavor and melting properties, making it a suitable substitute for mozzarella.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino Romano cheese: Pecorino Romano cheese provides a slightly sharper and saltier flavor, adding complexity to the dish.
mixed roasted or grilled vegetables - Substitute with zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant: These vegetables offer a similar texture and flavor profile, adding variety to the dish.

Best Way to Present Vegetable and Ravioli Lasagna

Elevate the plating: When presenting the vegetable and ravioli lasagna, focus on creating a visually stunning plate. Use a large, white, or neutral-colored plate to allow the vibrant colors of the dish to pop. Arrange the lasagna neatly, ensuring each layer is visible and appealing to the eye.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of freshness and color to the dish by garnishing with freshly chopped basil or parsley. Sprinkle the herbs lightly over the lasagna just before serving to enhance the overall presentation and add a burst of flavor.
Incorporate microgreens: Introduce a touch of elegance by delicately placing a small bundle of microgreens on top of the lasagna. The vibrant green of the microgreens will provide a beautiful contrast to the rich colors of the dish, adding a sophisticated touch to the presentation.
Utilize edible flowers: Elevate the visual appeal of the dish by incorporating edible flowers such as nasturtiums or pansies. Carefully place the flowers on the plate to add a touch of whimsy and elegance, creating a visually stunning presentation that will impress even the most discerning culinary professionals.
Create a balsamic drizzle design: Use a small squeeze bottle to create an artistic drizzle of balsamic glaze on the plate. This not only adds a burst of flavor but also allows for a decorative touch, enhancing the overall presentation of the vegetable and ravioli lasagna.

Essential Tools for Making Lasagna

Large pot: A large pot is essential for boiling the ravioli and preparing the pasta for the lasagna.
Saucepan: A saucepan is used for heating the olive oil and simmering the sausage marinara sauce.
Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is used for stirring and breaking up the sausage meat while cooking.
Baking dish: A 3-quart baking dish is required for assembling and baking the ravioli lasagna.
Food processor: A food processor can be used for chopping or slicing the vegetables for the lasagna.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is used for tossing the cooked ravioli with the sausage marinara sauce before assembling the lasagna.
Foil: Foil is used to cover the lasagna while baking to ensure even cooking and prevent excessive browning.
Oven: An oven is necessary for baking the ravioli lasagna at 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

Storing and Freezing Lasagna: A Guide

To store leftover vegetable and ravioli lasagna, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container or wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Refrigerate the leftover lasagna for up to 3-4 days. When ready to reheat, remove the desired portion and reheat it in the microwave or oven until heated through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the lasagna for up to 2-3 months. To freeze, wrap the cooled lasagna tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Label the package with the date and contents.
When freezing, it's best to portion the lasagna into individual servings or smaller portions for easier reheating and to avoid having to thaw and refreeze the entire dish.
To reheat frozen lasagna, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, remove the plastic wrap and foil, and reheat the lasagna in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions of frozen lasagna in the microwave. Place the frozen portion on a microwave-safe plate and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. Cooking times may vary depending on the strength of your microwave.
If you plan to freeze the lasagna, it's best to slightly undercook the ravioli and vegetables to prevent them from becoming mushy when reheated.
When assembling the lasagna for freezing, use a freezer-safe baking dish or aluminum foil tray for easy storage and reheating.

How To Reheat Lasagna Leftovers

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. Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown slightly.
If you prefer a quicker method, you can reheat individual portions of lasagna in the microwave. Place a single serving of lasagna on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until it's heated through. Be careful not to overheat the lasagna, as it can cause the pasta to become rubbery.
For a crispy top, you can reheat the lasagna in a skillet on the stovetop. Place a single serving of lasagna in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat the lasagna for 5-7 minutes, or until it's heated through and the bottom is slightly crispy. You can also add a splash of water to the skillet to create steam and help the lasagna heat more evenly.
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 single serving of lasagna on a toaster oven-safe dish. Heat the lasagna for 10-15 minutes, or until it's heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Regardless of the method you choose, be sure to let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before serving, as it will be extremely hot. You can garnish the reheated lasagna with fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, or sprinkle some extra parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.

Interesting Fact About Lasagna

The recipe includes ravioli lasagna which is a unique twist on the traditional lasagna dish.

Is Making Lasagna at Home Cost-Effective?

This vegetable and ravioli lasagna recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The use of fresh ravioli and mixed roasted or grilled vegetables makes it a budget-friendly option. The combination of sausage and cheese adds a rich flavor, making it a satisfying meal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25, making it an affordable and delicious option. Overall Verdict: 9.

Is This Lasagna Recipe Healthy or Not?

This vegetable and ravioli lasagna recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it incorporates a variety of vegetables, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The use of fresh ravioli also adds a good source of protein and carbohydrates. However, the recipe also includes several less healthy components:

The use of pork or turkey sausages adds saturated fat and sodium to the dish
The generous amount of mozzarella and parmesan cheese contributes to a high saturated fat and calorie content
The marinara sauce may contain added sugars and sodium, depending on the brand used

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the pork or turkey sausages with a lean protein source, such as ground turkey or chicken breast
Reduce the amount of cheese used, or opt for low-fat varieties of mozzarella and parmesan
Choose a low-sodium, low-sugar marinara sauce, or make your own using fresh tomatoes and herbs
Increase the proportion of vegetables in the dish, aiming for a 50/50 ratio of ravioli to veggies
Use whole wheat or vegetable-based ravioli for added fiber and nutrients
Serve smaller portions and pair the lasagna with a fresh, leafy green salad to balance the meal

By making these adjustments, you can transform this comforting lasagna into a more nutritious and well-rounded dish that still satisfies your cravings for a hearty, flavorful meal.

Editor's Opinion on This Lasagna Recipe

The recipe provided is a delightful twist on traditional lasagna, incorporating fresh ravioli and a medley of roasted or grilled vegetables. The combination of sweet Italian pork or turkey sausages, marinara sauce, and a blend of cheeses creates a rich and flavorful dish. The step-by-step instructions are clear and easy to follow, making it accessible for home cooks. The make-ahead option adds convenience for busy schedules. However, for a vegetarian option, the sausage can be substituted with plant-based alternatives. Overall, this vegetable and ravioli lasagna recipe offers a satisfying and hearty meal that is sure to impress family and friends.

Enhance Your Vegetable-and-Ravioli Lasagna Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: Savory garlic breadsticks with a sprinkle of parmesan and herbs, perfect for dipping in marinara sauce

Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze for a light and refreshing side

Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted with olive oil, garlic, and a squeeze of lemon for a bright and flavorful accompaniment

Delicious Alternatives to Traditional Lasagna

Creamy Chicken and Vegetable Soup: This creamy and hearty soup is packed with tender chicken and a variety of colorful vegetables, making it the perfect comfort food for any time of the year.

Fruit and Nut Salad with Citrus Dressing: This refreshing salad combines a mix of fresh fruits, crunchy nuts, and a zesty citrus dressing for a light and flavorful dish that's perfect for a healthy lunch or side dish.

Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry: Tender slices of beef are stir-fried with crisp broccoli florets in a savory sauce, creating a quick and delicious meal that's perfect for busy weeknights.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Your Lasagna

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your taste buds with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Each bite is a burst of deliciousness that will leave you craving for more.

Crispy Zucchini Fritters: Indulge in these crispy zucchini fritters, made with fresh zucchini, herbs, and a hint of parmesan cheese. The golden brown exterior gives way to a tender and flavorful interior, making it the perfect appetizer to kick off any meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This elegant dessert is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.

Berry Parfait: Layered with fresh berries, creamy yogurt, and crunchy granola, this berry parfait is a delightful and healthy dessert option. The combination of sweet and tart flavors makes it a refreshing treat for any time of day.

Why trust this Vegetable-and-Ravioli Lasagna Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, combining the richness of sweet Italian pork with the savory goodness of marinara sauce. The use of fresh cheese ravioli and spinach and cheese ravioli adds a delightful twist, while the generous layering of mozzarella cheese and parmesan cheese promises a satisfyingly cheesy finish. The addition of mixed roasted or grilled vegetables not only enhances the nutritional value but also brings a delightful depth of flavor. Trust in the harmony of these ingredients to create a truly memorable dining experience.

Want to share your experience making this Vegetable-and-Ravioli Lasagna or have any tips to enhance the recipe? Join the discussion in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use different types of ravioli for this lasagna recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use different types of ravioli for this recipe. Feel free to mix and match your favorite flavors to create a unique and delicious lasagna.

Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Absolutely! This lasagna can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated overnight. It's a great option for meal prepping or for when you want to get a head start on dinner.

Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables if you prefer or if they are more convenient for you. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using in the recipe.

Can I substitute the pork sausage with a different type of meat?

Of course! You can substitute the pork sausage with turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even ground beef if you prefer. The choice of meat is flexible and can be tailored to your preferences.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers for future meals. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, and they should keep well for a few months.