Ah, cheesy skillet ravioli bake—just saying it makes my mouth water. Imagine the comfort of a cozy blanket wrapped around you on a chilly evening, but in food form. It’s the kind of dish that makes you forget about the world for a while, like getting lost in a good book or binge-watching the latest series on Netflix.
Steps
- Heat a large, deep skillet over medium heat and add olive oil and butter. Sauté sliced baby bella mushrooms until they soften and brown, then add minced garlic and cook until it becomes fragrant.
- Pour in marinara sauce, petite diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and water. Stir everything together to combine the ingredients thoroughly.
- Add the cheese ravioli to the skillet, ensuring each piece is well coated with the sauce. Cover with a lid and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- After 5 minutes, remove the lid, stir the mixture, and continue cooking uncovered for an additional 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the ravioli, ensuring even coverage. Allow the cheese to melt on the stovetop, or broil in the oven for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly browned.
- Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy with garlic bread or a side salad.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 8 ounces baby bella mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) petite diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/4 cup water
- 20 ounces refrigerated cheese ravioli
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
FAQ
- Can I use frozen ravioli instead of refrigerated for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use frozen cheese ravioli as a cost-saving option. Just ensure to simmer it for a few additional minutes to ensure it’s fully cooked and heated through.
- What can I substitute for baby Bella mushrooms if I can’t find them?
- Baby Bella mushrooms can be substituted with white button mushrooms. They offer a similar texture and flavor, and often come at a more affordable price.
- How should I store and reheat leftovers of the Cheesy Skillet Ravioli?
- Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For reheating, simply microwave the portion until it’s heated through. You can also freeze the leftovers for up to 3 months.
- Is there an option to make the dish spicier?
- Yes, you can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce to give the dish a spicy kick according to your preference.
- What are some good side dishes to serve with this meal?
- A fresh side salad with leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion pairs well with this dish. Alternatively, garlic bread is a classic choice to complement the cheesy ravioli.
Tips
- Use Frozen Ravioli for Savings: If you’re looking to cut costs, opt for frozen cheese ravioli instead of refrigerated. Just remember to extend the cooking time slightly to ensure it’s fully cooked and heated through.
- Substitute Mushrooms if Needed: Baby bella mushrooms add a rich flavor, but if they’re not available or are too pricey, white button mushrooms work as a great alternative.
- Broil for a Crispy Cheese Finish: For a deliciously browned cheese topping, consider broiling the dish for a few minutes in the oven. Make sure your skillet is oven-safe before doing this.
- Portion Leftovers for Convenience: Store leftovers in individual airtight containers for easy reheating. This dish can be refrigerated for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Equipment
- Large Deep Skillet (Oven-Safe) – If you plan to broil the cheese in the oven, you’ll need a skillet that is safe for oven use.
- Lid for Skillet – Necessary if the skillet you have doesn’t already come with a lid.
- Broiler (if not part of your oven) – For browning the cheese on top, if your oven doesn’t have a broiler function.
