Ravioli Lasagna
Experience the delightful marriage of two Italian classics with this ravioli lasagna. Layers of tender ravioli, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese create a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also allows for endless variations, making it a must-try for pasta lovers. Get ready to enjoy a hearty meal that brings the flavors of Italy to your table!
Ingredients
- 9-12 sheets of fresh or frozen ravioli
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4-6 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with a cooking time of 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/6 of the dish) contains approximately 350 calories, 18g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. This is based on a serving size of about 1 cup.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
- Place a layer of ravioli over the sauce, ensuring they are slightly overlapping.
- Spread ricotta cheese evenly over the ravioli.
- Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella cheese on top of the ricotta.
- Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with mozzarella on top.
- Drizzle olive oil and sprinkle Italian seasoning over the top layer.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute the ravioli with stuffed tortellini or use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version. Additionally, swap marinara sauce for pesto or Alfredo sauce to explore different flavor profiles.
Serving and Pairings
Ravioli lasagna can be paired with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A glass of red wine also complements the flavors beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to two months; just thaw before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using overcooked ravioli can lead to a mushy texture.
- Not seasoning each layer may result in bland flavors.
- Covering the dish too tightly can trap moisture and make it soggy.
- Forgetting to let it cool slightly before serving can cause spills.
- Skipping the fresh herbs can diminish the dish’s aroma.
Helpful Tips
- Use a mix of cheeses for a richer flavor.
- Try adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Prepare the dish a day ahead for more developed flavors.
- Experiment with different sauces for varied tastes.
FAQs
Can I use homemade ravioli for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade ravioli can enhance the flavor and authenticity of your dish. Just ensure they are cooked to the right texture before layering.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
If ricotta isn’t available, you can use cottage cheese or a mixture of cream cheese and sour cream for a similar texture and taste.
Can this dish be made vegetarian?
Yes, you can make it vegetarian by using vegetable-based ravioli and ensuring the marinara sauce is meat-free.
How long does it take to cook frozen ravioli?
Frozen ravioli typically takes about 5-7 minutes to cook in boiling water, but for this recipe, they will cook in the oven with the other ingredients.
Can I add meat to the ravioli lasagna?
Certainly! You can layer in cooked ground beef, sausage, or chicken for added protein and flavor.
Conclusion
Ravioli lasagna is a delightful twist on two beloved Italian dishes. Its layers of flavor and texture make it a comforting meal that is easy to prepare and sure to impress. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy dinner for two, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ravioli Lasagna
Ingredients
- 9-12 sheets of fresh or frozen ravioli
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
- Place a layer of ravioli over the sauce, ensuring they are slightly overlapping.
- Spread ricotta cheese evenly over the ravioli.
- Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella cheese on top of the ricotta.
- Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with mozzarella on top.
- Drizzle olive oil and sprinkle Italian seasoning over the top layer.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil.
