Ravioli Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Ravioli Casserole: the ultimate weeknight dinner champion! Imagine tender, cheese-filled ravioli nestled in a rich, flavorful sauce, baked to bubbly, golden perfection. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate, ready in under an hour. Forget slaving over a hot stove – this recipe is all about maximum flavor with minimal effort.

While the exact origins of casserole dishes are debated, their popularity soared in the mid-20th century as families sought convenient and comforting meals. This Ravioli Casserole is a modern take on that classic concept, blending the ease of a casserole with the beloved flavors of Italian cuisine. Ravioli itself boasts a rich history, with early forms appearing in 14th-century Italian cookbooks, showcasing the ingenuity of pasta makers.

So, why do people adore this dish? It’s simple: the combination of soft pasta, creamy cheese, and tangy tomato sauce is irresistible. The baking process melds all the flavors together, creating a symphony of taste and texture. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can customize it with your favorite vegetables, meats, or cheeses. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or impressing guests, this Ravioli Casserole is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience the joy of effortless, delicious cooking!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casings
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 (25 ounce) package frozen cheese ravioli, partially thawed
• 1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Preparing the Meat Sauce:

1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the Italian sausage over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease. This step is crucial for developing a rich flavor base.
2. Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the cooked sausage. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir again to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
6. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. Simmering is key for a flavorful sauce!

Preparing the Ricotta Cheese Mixture:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, and chopped fresh parsley.
2. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture is smooth and creamy. Don’t overmix, just ensure everything is incorporated.

Assembling the Ravioli Casserole:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This will prevent the ravioli from sticking.
4. Arrange half of the partially thawed ravioli in a single layer over the sauce. It’s okay if they overlap slightly.
5. Spoon half of the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the ravioli.
6. Sprinkle one-third of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the ricotta cheese mixture.
7. Pour half of the remaining meat sauce over the mozzarella cheese.
8. Repeat the layers: remaining ravioli, remaining ricotta cheese mixture, another one-third of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and the remaining meat sauce.
9. Top with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese. A generous layer of mozzarella is what makes this casserole so cheesy and delicious!

Baking the Ravioli Casserole:

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will help to prevent the top from browning too quickly and ensure that the ravioli cooks through.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
4. Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This will allow the cheese to set slightly and make it easier to slice and serve.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: If you like a spicier casserole, add more red pepper flakes to the meat sauce or use spicy Italian sausage.
• Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the meat sauce, such as chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. Sauté them along with the onion and garlic.
• Use different cheeses: You can substitute other cheeses for the mozzarella, such as provolone or fontina.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the Italian sausage and use a vegetable-based sauce instead. You can also add extra vegetables to the sauce.
• Fresh herbs: Using fresh basil and oregano in addition to the dried herbs will enhance the flavor of the sauce. Add them towards the end of the simmering process.
• Make ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Ravioli type: While cheese ravioli is classic, feel free to experiment with other fillings like meat, spinach, or mushroom ravioli.
• Serving suggestions: Serve the ravioli casserole with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Detailed Ingredient Notes:

• Italian Sausage: I prefer using sweet Italian sausage, but you can use mild or hot depending on your preference. Make sure to remove the sausage from its casings before browning it. This allows it to crumble nicely and distribute evenly throughout the sauce.
• Crushed Tomatoes: Look for good quality crushed tomatoes for the best flavor. San Marzano tomatoes are a great option if you can find them.
• Tomato Sauce and Paste: These ingredients add depth and richness to the sauce. Using both tomato sauce and paste creates a more complex flavor profile.
• Dried Herbs: Dried oregano and basil are essential for that classic Italian flavor. Make sure your herbs are fresh (within a year) for the best taste.
• Frozen Cheese Ravioli: Partially thawing the ravioli helps them cook more evenly in the casserole. You don’t want them to be completely thawed, just enough so that they’re not frozen solid.
• Ricotta Cheese: Use whole milk ricotta cheese for the creamiest texture. Drain off any excess liquid before mixing it with the other ingredients.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is always best, but pre-grated Parmesan will also work in a pinch.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Use shredded mozzarella cheese for easy melting. Low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella is a good option because it melts well and doesn’t release too much liquid.
• Egg: The egg helps to bind the ricotta cheese mixture together and adds richness.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the casserole.

Troubleshooting:

• Casserole is too dry: If the casserole seems dry while baking, add a little bit of water or tomato sauce to the baking dish.
• Casserole is too watery: If the casserole is too watery, drain off any excess liquid before serving. You can also try using a lower-moisture mozzarella cheese.
• Cheese is browning too quickly: If the cheese is browning too quickly, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
• Ravioli is not cooked through: If the ravioli is not cooked through, bake the casserole for a few more minutes, or until the ravioli is tender.

Serving and Storage:

• Serving: Serve the ravioli casserole hot, straight from the oven. Garnish with extra fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired.
• Storage: Store leftover ravioli casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat leftover ravioli casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or in the microwave.

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This Ravioli Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a warm, comforting hug on a plate, perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend gathering. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and utterly delicious dinner solution. The combination of cheesy ravioli, flavorful sauce, and that irresistible crispy topping is simply divine. It’s a dish that appeals to both kids and adults, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. But what truly sets this recipe apart is its versatility. Feel free to get creative and adapt it to your own tastes and preferences. For a vegetarian option, use cheese or spinach and ricotta ravioli and load it up with extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. If you’re a meat lover, consider adding cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or even shredded chicken to the sauce for an extra hearty meal.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of cheese! While mozzarella is a classic choice, provolone, fontina, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan can add a unique depth of flavor. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try using a different type of sauce altogether. Pesto, Alfredo, or even a spicy arrabbiata sauce would all work beautifully with the ravioli. For serving, a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect complement to the richness of the casserole. Garlic bread is another excellent choice for soaking up all that delicious sauce. And for a truly decadent experience, top each serving with a dollop of ricotta cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil. Looking for some variations? Consider these ideas: * Spicy Ravioli Casserole: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick. * Creamy Ravioli Casserole: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream to the sauce for extra creaminess. * Deluxe Ravioli Casserole: Add a layer of sautéed vegetables, such as onions, garlic, and mushrooms, to the bottom of the casserole dish before adding the ravioli. * Ravioli Casserole with a Twist: Use different types of ravioli, such as lobster ravioli or mushroom ravioli, for a more sophisticated flavor. I’m confident that you’ll love this Ravioli Casserole as much as I do. It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your household. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen, gather your ingredients, and give this recipe a try! I promise you won’t be disappointed. And most importantly, don’t forget to share your experience with me! I’d love to hear how it turned out and any variations you made. Leave a comment below or tag me on social media – I can’t wait to see your creations! Happy cooking! I hope you enjoy this easy and delicious meal. Let me know what you think!

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