There’s something about cheese that just makes everything feel better, right? Like, remember that viral TikTok trend with baked feta? Well, this cheesy baked ravioli is like that, but with a warm hug from your nonna. Imagine gooey mozzarella stretching as you take a bite—it’s comfort wrapped in pasta, and honestly, who wouldn’t want that on a chilly evening?
Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Season the ground beef with salt and pepper, then cook it in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it apart for about 3 minutes. Add onion powder, dried basil, dried oregano, mustard powder, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and diced onions, cooking for another 5 minutes, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Drain any excess grease from the skillet. Stir in 2 1/4 cups of marinara sauce and half and half, mixing well to combine. Remove the skillet from the heat and set it aside.
- Spread 3/4 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish. Arrange half of the uncooked ravioli over the sauce.
- Top the ravioli with half of the meat sauce and sprinkle with 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese. Layer the remaining ravioli over this.
- Add the remaining meat sauce and top with the rest of the mozzarella cheese. Cover the dish and bake for 35 minutes.
- Remove the cover and broil at 450°F for 1-2 minutes until the top is slightly browned. Be sure to watch closely during broiling. Remove from the oven and serve immediately.
Ingredients
- 3/4 pound ground beef
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (does not make it spicy)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup half and half
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, divided
- 20 ounces refrigerated ravioli, uncooked
Nutritional Values
Calories: 3294kcal | Carbohydrates: 312g | Protein: 222g | Fat: 132g | Saturated Fat: 60g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g | Monounsaturated Fat: 24g | Trans Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 648mg | Sodium: 9042mg | Potassium: 4050mg | Fiber: 36g | Sugar: 54g | Vitamin A: 4926IU | Vitamin C: 66mg | Calcium: 2262mg | Iron: 30mg
FAQ
- Can I use frozen ravioli for this recipe?
- Yes, frozen ravioli can be used in this baked ravioli recipe. However, you will need to add an extra 15 minutes to the baking time to ensure everything is cooked thoroughly.
- Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?
- Absolutely! You can assemble the dish and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze it for up to three months. Remember to let it thaw in the refrigerator for 24 hours before baking.
- What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
- Low-moisture, whole milk mozzarella is recommended for the best melting and taste. Shredding it from a block will give you the best results.
- How do I store leftovers of the baked ravioli?
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the leftovers for up to three months.
- What can I serve with baked ravioli?
- Baked ravioli pairs well with Garlic Bread with Cheese. You might also want to try serving it alongside a fresh salad or a side of vegetables.
Tips
- No Boiling Required: This recipe allows you to skip the boiling step for ravioli, as it cooks directly in the oven with the sauce, making the preparation process quicker and easier.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: You can assemble the dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days or freeze it for up to three months. Just remember to let it sit for 30 minutes before baking or adjust the baking time slightly.
- Enhance with Extra Sauce: If you prefer a saucier dish or expect leftovers, consider adding an extra cup of marinara sauce. The ravioli will absorb some of the sauce during cooking and storage.
- Optimal Cheese Selection: For the best results, use low moisture, whole milk mozzarella cheese and shred it from a block yourself to ensure optimal melting and flavor.
Equipment
- 9 x 13-inch casserole dish – Ensure it is oven-safe up to 500° and suitable for broiling.
- Box Cheese Grater – For grating mozzarella cheese.
- Measuring Spoons – Magnetic ones can help keep them organized.
- Pinch Bowls – Useful for measuring and organizing seasonings.
- Ove Gloves – These are heat-resistant gloves for safely transferring dishes to and from the oven.
