Easy Baked Ravioli with Marinara and Cheese Recipe

If you’ve ever found yourself craving a hearty Italian meal but short on time, you’re going to adore this Easy Baked Ravioli with Marinara and Cheese Recipe. It takes all the comfort of a classic lasagna and wraps it up in a quicker, fuss-free package using frozen cheese ravioli. Layers of rich marinara sauce, gooey melted mozzarella, and sharp Parmesan come together to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any busy weeknight. Trust me, once you try it, this baked ravioli will become one of your go-to weeknight dinners that feels like a warm Italian hug in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t be fooled by how simple this ingredient list is—each item plays an essential role in building the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and that beautiful golden color you want in a baked pasta dish. From the tangy marinara sauce to the creamy cheeses, everything is straightforward but totally necessary for success.

• Marinara sauce (1 jar, 24 ounces): Provides the rich, tangy tomato base that ties all the flavors together with a hint of herbs.
• Frozen cheese ravioli (1 bag, 25 ounces): Using frozen ravioli not only saves prep time but also ensures each bite has that cheesy, pillowy goodness.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups): Adds that irresistible gooey, stretchy cheese factor that makes this dish so comforting.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Offers a salty, nutty kick that balances out the marinara and mozzarella beautifully.
• Dried basil (1 teaspoon, divided): Infuses subtle earthiness to brighten each layer without overpowering the flavors.
• Dried oregano (1 teaspoon, divided): Brings the classic Italian herb note that complements tomato sauce perfectly.
• Red pepper flakes (¼ teaspoon, divided, optional): Adds just a hint of heat to warm things up and deepen the flavor profile, if you like a little spice.
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish): Freshens and adds a pop of color to the finished dish for a lovely presentation.

How to Make Easy Baked Ravioli with Marinara and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (176 degrees Celsius). Grab a large baking dish—ideally something around 9×13 inches—and give it a good coat of nonstick cooking spray or a little olive oil. This will keep your baked ravioli from sticking and help everything cook evenly.

Step 2: Layer Sauce and Ravioli

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the dish. This foundation prevents the ravioli from sticking and starts the flavor layering process. Next, arrange a single layer of the frozen ravioli right over the sauce. Don’t worry about thawing them first; the sauce and heat will cook them perfectly. Then, spoon more marinara on top of the ravioli, soaking them just right.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Herbs

It’s time to sprinkle the magic! Add half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses evenly over the sauce layer. Then, sprinkle half of the dried basil, oregano, and if you’re using, red pepper flakes. These herbs boost the flavor with a classic Italian touch that melds beautifully in the baking process.

Step 4: Repeat Layers

Now, repeat the magic. Layer the remaining sauce, ravioli, mozzarella, Parmesan, and herbs, making sure everything is evenly distributed. These layers will build up all the flavors and textures you love, while the cheeses melt and bind everything together beautifully during baking.

Step 5: Bake

Cover your dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap the steam and let everything cook through smoothly. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 minutes. You want the cheese to bubble up and turn a lovely golden shade. For an irresistible bubbly and slightly charred top layer, pop it under the broiler for 30 to 90 seconds—but watch carefully so it doesn’t burn!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Let your baked ravioli rest for a few minutes to set up; this makes serving easier and keeps the layers intact. For an extra fresh touch and a bit of color, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving. And there you have it—a truly comforting, cheesy, saucy dish that’s ready to be devoured.

How to Serve Easy Baked Ravioli with Marinara and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or even some fresh basil leaves lifts the dish visually and adds a hint of brightness to every savory bite. A light sprinkle of extra Parmesan at the table is also a great way to amp up the cheesy goodness.

Side Dishes

Keeping it simple works best here. Serve alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty Italian loaf are fantastic companions for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate, making every last bite even more satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the baked ravioli in individual ramekins for a personal sized portion. You could also layer it in small cast iron skillets to create an appealing rustic presentation ideal for dinner parties or family meals. Either way, this dish always feels special and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover baked ravioli, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, so the next day’s meal tastes just as amazing.

Freezing

To freeze, let the baked ravioli cool completely, then transfer it into a freezer-safe dish or container, covering tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through, usually about 20 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent the top from over-browning. You can also use a microwave for convenience, but the oven method keeps the cheese beautifully melty without getting rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh ravioli works wonderfully in this recipe. Just reduce the initial baking time slightly since fresh ravioli cooks faster than frozen.

What if I don’t have marinara sauce on hand?

You can substitute with your favorite tomato sauce or even make a quick sauce by sautéing garlic and onions in olive oil, then adding canned crushed tomatoes and seasoning to taste.

Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian or vegan?

Yes! The traditional recipe is vegetarian, but for vegan, swap the cheeses with plant-based alternatives and ensure your marinara sauce has no animal products. The recipe still holds its comforting charm.

Can I add meat to this baked ravioli dish?

Definitely. Cooked sausage, ground beef, or even turkey can be mixed into the sauce before layering to add protein and a meaty flavor boost.

How spicy is this recipe?

The red pepper flakes add a subtle warmth, but they are optional. Adjust to your preference or omit altogether for a mild, family-friendly dish.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the cozy, cheesy goodness of this Easy Baked Ravioli with Marinara and Cheese Recipe to bring comfort and smiles to your table. Whether you’re feeding a family or just craving a soul-warming meal, this recipe makes it easy to enjoy classic Italian flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a try and watch it become a treasured favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.

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