Ravioli Lasagna Bake

Name: Ravioli Lasagna Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 packages of refrigerated cheese ravioli; 4 cups marinara sauce; 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Food Favorites

I love making this Ravioli Lasagna Bake because it combines all the comforting flavors I crave in one dish. The layers of soft ravioli, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese create a deliciously satisfying experience that I can whip up quickly. It's the perfect meal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners when time is tight but I still want to serve something special. Plus, it's always a hit with the kids, who love the fun twist on traditional lasagna!

Created by

Lucy Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-07T14:53:34.862Z

Making this Ravioli Lasagna Bake was a delightful culinary adventure for me. I began by using store-bought ravioli, which saves time without sacrificing flavor. Layering the ravioli with a homemade marinara sauce adds depth to each bite. One tip I swear by is to finish the bake with an extra sprinkle of cheese under the broiler for a perfectly golden top.

As I took the first bite, I was thrilled to find that the flavors meld together beautifully. This technique not only makes for a stunning presentation but also ensures every forkful is bursting with savory goodness. It’s become a go-to recipe in my kitchen that never fails to impress!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A comforting twist on classic lasagna
Quick to prepare with store-bought ravioli
Layers of cheese create a gooey, satisfying texture

Perfectly Layered Ravioli

One of the key techniques for achieving the best texture in your Ravioli Lasagna Bake is to ensure uniform layers. Start with a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the dish to prevent sticking and provide moisture. When layering the ravioli, place them in an even, single layer without overlapping too much; this allows the sauce and cheeses to mingle and coat every piece properly, ensuring each ravioli comes out perfectly cooked and flavorful.

For added texture, consider mixing different types of cheeses. While the traditional mozzarella gives a classic gooeyness, adding a hint of sharp provolone or creamy goat cheese in the mix can elevate the flavors. A sprinkle of Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes can also tie in beautifully with the marinara, adding a kick that could make your dish a favorite at the dinner table.

Make-Ahead Convenience

This Ravioli Lasagna Bake is excellent for meal prepping. You can assemble the layers ahead of time, cover the dish tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just keep in mind that the ravioli may absorb some moisture from the sauce as they sit, so ensure your layers are well-sauced to keep them tender. Alternatively, you can prepare it and freeze it unbaked; just extend the baking time by about 10-15 minutes if baking straight from the freezer.

When planning to make this dish ahead of time, consider using fresh ravioli instead of frozen. Fresh ravioli doesn't absorb as much sauce, so they maintain their texture better during reheating. If you're using frozen ravioli, it’s wise to let them thaw in the refrigerator beforehand for optimal final results.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To elevate your Ravioli Lasagna Bake, serve it with a side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. This adds a refreshing contrast to the rich layered pasta. A slice of garlic bread can also complement the dish beautifully, helping to scoop up any extra marinara left on the plate. It's a simple way to round out the meal without too much extra effort.

Feel free to customize your Ravioli Lasagna Bake according to your dietary preferences. You can use whole wheat or gluten-free ravioli for a healthier alternative or even experiment with different filling options like spinach and ricotta or mushroom. For a vegan alternative, substitute the cheeses with plant-based options and use a marinara sauce that doesn't contain added sugars or preservatives.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to make this delicious dish:

Ingredients

2 packages of refrigerated cheese ravioli
4 cups marinara sauce
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

With all your ingredients ready, you're one step closer to enjoying this fabulous dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Ravioli Lasagna Bake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large baking dish.

Layer the Ingredients

Start by spreading a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Then, add a layer of ravioli, followed by a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese and dollops of ricotta cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of marinara sauce and a generous amount of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

Seasoning

Sprinkle the dried oregano and garlic powder over the top layer of cheese for additional flavor.

Bake the Lasagna

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve hot.

Now you are ready to serve your delicious Ravioli Lasagna Bake!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, try using a spicy marinara sauce or adding sautéed vegetables between the layers. This dish also freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep!

Ingredients Insight

The type of marinara sauce you choose can significantly affect the overall flavor of your Ravioli Lasagna Bake. Opt for a quality brand with minimal ingredients for the best results, or consider making your own from scratch with canned tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. This homemade version allows you to control the spice levels and sweetness, tailoring it to your family's taste preferences.

Ricotta cheese plays a crucial role in providing a creamy texture between layers. If you can't find ricotta, cottage cheese works as a decent substitute. Just blend it with a little cream or yogurt to achieve a smoother consistency that mimics ricotta's creamy richness. Adding a pinch of salt will elevate the flavor and help integrate it more fully into the dish.

Common Troubleshooting

If the top of your lasagna isn't browning as nicely as you'd like, it's often helpful to switch to the broil setting for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep an eye on it, as this can quickly take your cheese from golden to burnt, but it will give that perfect color and texture you're aiming for. Just ensure you remove any foil covering before broiling to allow the top to crisp up.

Another common issue is that the ravioli can become too mushy if overcooked. To prevent this, always check the recommended cooking time on your ravioli package. As a rule of thumb, you want them to be al dente before layering; they will continue cooking while the lasagna bakes. If in doubt, I recommend slightly undercooking them, ensuring a perfect bite when the dish is ready to serve.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen ravioli?

Yes, frozen ravioli can be used. Just ensure they are slightly thawed before layering.

→ What else can I add to the layers?

You can add cooked ground beef, spinach, or even mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

→ Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free ravioli and check the sauce labels to ensure they are gluten-free.