Discover the ultimate comfort food with this incredibly easy Baked Ravioli recipe. Crafted from humble frozen ravioli, a rich homemade pasta sauce, and an abundance of gooey, melted cheese, this dish is designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort. It’s the perfect solution for a hearty, satisfying meal that comes together without hours in the kitchen!

For more delicious ravioli creations, explore our Ravioli with Pumpkin Alfredo, a creamy autumn delight, or simplify your dinner routine with this Easy Ravioli with Sausage and Brussels Sprouts!

Easy Baked Ravioli: Your Go-To Weeknight Comfort Food

Life gets busy, but that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on a delicious, homemade-tasting dinner. What if you crave the warmth and flavor of a meal made from scratch but find yourself short on time? The answer lies in the art of “semi-homemade” cooking, a brilliant strategy that marries convenience with culinary passion.

This Easy Baked Ravioli recipe has been a staple in our household for years, cherished for its simplicity and incredible flavor. It masterfully combines the richness of a slowly simmered homemade pasta sauce with the convenience of store-bought ravioli, transforming everyday ingredients into an extraordinary dish. While the sauce builds its deep flavor over a gentle simmer, the hands-on preparation time is remarkably minimal, making it an ideal choice for even the busiest weeknights.

Embracing semi-homemade meals allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds: the comforting taste of home-cooked food without the exhaustive time commitment. This cheesy baked ravioli is more than just a meal; it’s a testament to how smart cooking can bring joy and satisfaction to your dinner table, proving that truly delicious food can be both effortless and impressive.

Key Ingredients for Your Perfect Baked Ravioli

Crafting the perfect baked ravioli begins with understanding the role each ingredient plays. This recipe balances the fresh, vibrant flavors of a homemade sauce with the convenience and heartiness of frozen ravioli. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to create this comforting pasta bake:

• Olive Oil: The foundation of our sauce. Extra virgin olive oil adds a fruity, robust flavor that complements the tomatoes. A good quality olive oil can make a significant difference, though any neutral oil will work in a pinch.
• Onion: Essential for building a deep, aromatic base. As it softens and caramelizes, the onion sweetens and adds a complex layer of flavor to the marinara. If you’re not a fan of larger onion pieces, dice it extra finely – the flavor will still shine through.
• Garlic: The heart of any great Italian sauce. Freshly minced garlic provides an incomparable pungent and savory note that garlic powder simply can’t replicate. Don’t skip fresh garlic for the best results!
• Salt & Pepper: These fundamental seasonings are crucial for enhancing and balancing all the flavors in the sauce. Taste and adjust as you go to achieve perfect seasoning.
• Tomatoes: Our sauce relies on a dynamic duo of canned tomatoes.
  • Canned Whole Tomatoes: These break down beautifully during simmering, offering a rustic, chunky texture and rich tomato flavor. You’ll crush them as they cook, releasing their full potential.
  • Fire-Roasted Crushed or Diced Tomatoes: This is where the magic happens! Fire-roasted tomatoes bring a unique smoky depth and a hint of sweetness that elevates the entire sauce. While regular crushed tomatoes can be used, the fire-roasted variety adds an irresistible complexity.
• Herbs: Dried herbs are concentrated flavor powerhouses.
  • Dried Oregano & Thyme: These classic Italian herbs infuse the sauce with warmth and aromatic notes.
  • Optional additions: Feel free to experiment with dried basil, a generous pinch of Italian seasoning, or a touch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
• Ravioli: The star of our baked pasta! While we always opt for cheese ravioli for its creamy filling and universal appeal, any filled ravioli (meat, spinach, mushroom) would be a fantastic choice, allowing for endless customization. Frozen or refrigerated varieties both work wonderfully; just follow package instructions for cooking.
• Cheese: Because what’s baked pasta without a generous blanket of cheese?
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella provides that iconic, stretchy, gooey texture and mild flavor that makes baked dishes so irresistible.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty, umami-rich layer, perfectly complementing the mozzarella and sauce.

How to Craft Your Delicious Baked Ravioli

Creating this satisfying baked ravioli is a straightforward process, broken down into simple, easy-to-follow steps. With a little simmering and a quick bake, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to impress.

1. Begin with the Flavorful Sauce: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add your chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent, usually about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for building a flavorful base.
2. Infuse with Garlic: Once the onion is tender, add the minced garlic and cook for just about 30 seconds, until it becomes wonderfully fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper at this stage.
3. Introduce the Tomatoes: Pour in both the large can of whole tomatoes and the large can of fire-roasted crushed or diced tomatoes, including all their juices – no need to drain! If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can use two cans of crushed tomatoes. The fire-roasted tomatoes are highly recommended for their unique smoky essence that adds incredible depth. Use a spoon or potato masher to break up the whole tomatoes as they cook, creating a delightful rustic texture.
4. Simmer and Reduce: Stir in your dried oregano and thyme. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer. Allow the sauce to cook, stirring every so often, until it visibly thickens and reduces in volume. This process concentrates the flavors and typically takes about 20 to 25 minutes. Once thickened, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. This simmering time is primarily hands-off, allowing you to prep other components.
5. Cook the Ravioli: While your glorious sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add your frozen or refrigerated ravioli and cook according to the package directions. Ravioli usually cooks very quickly, often in just 3-5 minutes, as you only need to cook them until al dente.
6. Combine Gently: Drain the cooked ravioli thoroughly and return them to the large pot. Pour the thickened, homemade pasta sauce over the ravioli. Gently toss to combine, taking care not to break open the delicate pasta parcels. The goal is to coat each ravioli evenly without damaging its delicious filling.
7. Prepare for Baking: Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup.
8. Layer with Cheese and Bake: Transfer the ravioli and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. Generously sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Bake in your preheated oven (425ºF) until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and beautifully golden brown on top, typically around 20 minutes.
9. Rest and Garnish: Once out of the oven, let the baked ravioli rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set slightly and prevents the cheese from sliding off. For a fresh touch, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting meal!

Watch the Baked Ravioli Video Tutorial

To see this delightful baked ravioli being made step-by-step, you can watch the video tutorial embedded above. It offers a visual guide to ensure your cooking process is as smooth and successful as possible.

Expert Tips for Your Best Baked Ravioli

Elevate your baked ravioli from good to absolutely incredible with these handy tips and tricks:

• Tomato Choice Matters: While crushed fire-roasted tomatoes are our top recommendation for that unparalleled smoky depth, diced fire-roasted tomatoes are a perfectly acceptable substitute and often easier to find. Just be aware they will result in a slightly chunkier sauce. If you prefer a less smoky flavor, regular crushed tomatoes work too, but you’ll miss out on that special nuance.
• Ravioli Variety: Feel free to use either frozen or refrigerated ravioli based on what’s available or your preference. The cooking time will vary slightly, so always refer to the package directions for optimal al dente results. Don’t overcook them before baking, as they’ll continue to cook in the oven.
• Make Ahead Magic: This recipe is fantastic for meal prepping! You have a couple of options:
  • Sauce Only: Prepare the homemade marinara sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to cook, simply reheat the sauce, cook the ravioli, combine, top with cheese, and bake.
  • Fully Assembled (Unbaked): Assemble the entire dish (cooked ravioli, sauce, and cheese) in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure everything heats through evenly. You might want to uncover it for the last 5-10 minutes to get that golden, bubbly cheese.
• Storage and Reheating Leftovers: Any leftover baked ravioli can be stored in a covered, airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions or cover the baking dish with foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. A splash of water or broth can help keep it from drying out.
• Cheese, Please! Don’t be shy with the cheese. A generous layer creates that desirable golden-brown crust and gooey interior. For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of provolone or fontina cheese to the mix.
• Customize Your Herbs: Beyond oregano and thyme, fresh basil added at the very end (after baking) brightens the flavors. A bay leaf added to the sauce during simmering can also add a subtle layer of complexity. Remember to remove it before serving!
• Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch or two of red pepper flakes to the sauce along with the garlic.

What to Serve with Your Cheesy Baked Ravioli

Baked ravioli is a wonderfully hearty and satisfying meal on its own, packed with pasta, rich sauce, and melted cheese. You don’t need much to complete this comforting dish, but a few well-chosen side dishes can elevate the experience and add a refreshing contrast or complementary texture. Here are some of our favorite pairings that go perfectly with this Italian pasta bake:

• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Is there any better companion to a pasta dish? Crispy, buttery bread smothered in garlic and cheese is ideal for soaking up every last drop of that delicious homemade marinara sauce.
• Sesame Green Beans: For a lighter, vibrant green side, these sesame green beans offer a lovely crunch and a nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the rich pasta.
• Crown Ruby Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides a sweet and tart counterpoint, brightening the meal and adding a touch of freshness, especially after such a robust main course.
• Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender glazed carrots offer a touch of sweetness and a soft texture, making them a family-friendly vegetable option.
• Antipasto Salad: For a more traditional Italian accompaniment, an antipasto salad with olives, cured meats, cheeses, and crisp greens offers a variety of textures and bold flavors.
• Homemade Breadsticks: Warm, soft, and lightly seasoned breadsticks are always a hit. They’re perfect for dipping and incredibly satisfying.
• Tomato and Herb Salad: A simple salad featuring fresh, ripe tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing, acidic balance to the richness of the baked ravioli.

Explore More Delicious Pasta Recipes

If you’re a pasta enthusiast like us, you’ll love exploring these other cherished pasta recipes, perfect for any occasion:

• Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta
• Hearty Lasagna Soup Recipe
• Indulgent Shrimp Alfredo
• Comforting Penne Pasta Bake
• Three-Cheese Chicken Stuffed Shells
• Quick and Easy Parmesan Pasta

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Baked Ravioli

5 from 7 votes

Author: Deborah Harroun

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Main Dish

Cuisine: Italian

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This Baked Ravioli recipe takes frozen ravioli and combines it with a homemade pasta sauce and lots of cheese. It’s super easy and super filling!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 cup chopped)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 (28-oz) can whole tomatoes
• 1 (28-oz) can fire-roasted crushed or diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 lbs frozen cheese ravioli
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook an additional 30 seconds then season with salt and pepper.
2. Add the whole tomatoes and the crushed tomatoes. Season with the oregano and thyme.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, breaking up the tomatoes as it cooks. Cook until the sauce is thickened and reduced, about 20-25 minutes.
4. Preheat the oven to 425ºF. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
5. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ravioli and cook according to the package directions. Drain and return to the pot.
6. When the sauce is thickened, taste for seasoning and add more salt and pepper, if needed.
7. Add the sauce to the pasta and gently toss to combine.
8. Pour the pasta and sauce into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with both cheeses.
9. Bake until the cheese is melted and golden, about 20 minutes.
10. Let the pasta sit for a few minutes before serving. Top with chopped parsley or basil, if desired.

Video

Recipe Notes:

Adapted from Everyday Food: Great Food Fast

Nutrition information provided as an estimate only. Various brands and products can change the counts. Any nutritional information should only be used as a general guideline.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 1/8 of recipe,
Calories: 478kcal (24%),
Carbohydrates: 49g (16%),
Protein: 25g (50%),
Fat: 16g (25%),
Saturated Fat: 9g (56%),
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g,
Trans Fat: 0g,
Cholesterol: 46mg (15%),
Sodium: 1349mg (59%),
Fiber: 31g (129%),
Sugar: 9g (10%)

Keywords: baked ravioli, easy dinner, comfort food, pasta bake, homemade sauce, weeknight meal

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Ravioli

Here are answers to some common questions about making and enjoying baked ravioli:

• Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen? Absolutely! Fresh ravioli will cook even faster than frozen, so be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly (usually just 1-2 minutes in boiling water) to ensure it’s al dente before baking.
• What kind of cheese is best for baked ravioli? A combination of shredded mozzarella for meltiness and grated Parmesan for flavor is ideal. You can also experiment with provolone, fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses for added complexity.
• Can I add meat to this baked ravioli recipe? Yes! Browned ground beef, Italian sausage, or even shredded chicken can be added to the homemade pasta sauce for a heartier meal. Simply cook the meat before adding the tomatoes.
• How do I prevent the ravioli from getting mushy? The key is to cook the ravioli just until al dente before baking. It will continue to absorb sauce and cook in the oven. Also, make sure your sauce isn’t too thin; a thicker sauce helps coat the ravioli without making it soggy.
• Is this recipe freezer-friendly? Once baked, this dish can be frozen! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat, covered, in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly.
• Can I make a vegetarian version? This recipe is already vegetarian if you use cheese or vegetable-filled ravioli. You can also add extra vegetables to the sauce like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini during the simmering stage.

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Easy Dinner

This Easy Baked Ravioli recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary hug that promises comfort, convenience, and unforgettable flavor. By combining a rich, aromatic homemade sauce with the simplicity of frozen ravioli and the sheer joy of melted cheese, you create a dish that feels both special and effortless. Perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or simply when you crave a hearty, soul-satisfying plate of Italian goodness.

So, gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and prepare to delight your taste buds with a baked pasta dish that will quickly become a cherished favorite in your repertoire. Say goodbye to complicated dinners and hello to the comforting embrace of homemade flavor, made easy. Enjoy every cheesy, saucy bite!