Ravioli Lasagna
Savor the delightful combination of flavors in this ravioli lasagna! This recipe transforms traditional lasagna into a unique dish by using ravioli instead of standard pasta sheets. Not only does it save time, but it also enhances the texture and taste. With layers of cheesy goodness and a rich tomato sauce, this comforting meal is perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to gatherings with friends. Your taste buds are in for a treat!
Ingredients
1 package of cheese ravioli (about 20 oz)
2 cups marinara sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and the cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (about 1/6 of the dish) contains approximately 350 calories, 18g of protein, 15g of fat, and 32g of carbohydrates. This is based on a standard serving size for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place a single layer of cheese ravioli over the sauce.
- Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the ravioli.
- Sprinkle one-third of the mozzarella cheese on top.
- Repeat the layers: sauce, ravioli, ricotta, and mozzarella.
- Finish with a final layer of ravioli and marinara sauce on top.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the cheese ravioli with spinach or meat-filled ravioli for added flavor. Additionally, swap marinara sauce for alfredo or pesto sauce to create different flavor profiles.
Serving and Pairings
Ravioli lasagna pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread. A light red wine, such as Chianti, complements the dish beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions. Ravioli lasagna can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it is well-covered.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using frozen ravioli without thawing may result in an unevenly cooked dish.
- Overloading with sauce can make the dish too watery.
- Not covering the dish while baking can lead to excessive browning.
- Skipping the egg in the ricotta mixture can affect the texture.
- Not letting it rest before serving may cause it to fall apart.
Helpful Tips
- Use homemade sauce for enhanced flavor.
- Experiment with different cheese blends for variety.
- Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Let the lasagna cool slightly before cutting for cleaner slices.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought ravioli?
Yes, store-bought ravioli is a great option for this recipe and saves time.
How can I make it vegetarian?
Simply use cheese or vegetable-filled ravioli and ensure your sauce is meat-free.
Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the lasagna and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
What can I serve with ravioli lasagna?
A simple garden salad and garlic bread make excellent side dishes.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Just reheat thoroughly before serving.
Conclusion
Ravioli lasagna is a delightful dish that combines the comfort of lasagna with the unique texture of ravioli. Its layers of flavor make it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious meal with your loved ones!
Ravioli Lasagna
Ingredients
- 1 package of cheese ravioli about 20 oz
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place a single layer of cheese ravioli over the sauce.
- Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the ravioli.
- Sprinkle one-third of the mozzarella cheese on top.
- Repeat the layers: sauce, ravioli, ricotta, and mozzarella.
- Finish with a final layer of ravioli and marinara sauce on top.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
