Description
Cheesy Mushroom Ravioli Casserole
This Cheesy Mushroom Ravioli Casserole with Spinach is an easy weeknight dinner that brings comfort food to your table! Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavors, this dish is perfect for busy evenings when you want something quick yet satisfying. With only 10 minutes of prep time, it’s a delicious meal that will become a family favorite!
1 bag (25 oz) fresh ravioli (4-cheese recommended)
1 1/2 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup whipping cream
1/2 cup vegetable broth
1/2 lb (225g) mushrooms, sliced
2 cups fresh spinach
1 1/2 cups shredded parmesan cheese
1 tsp fresh cracked black pepper
1/2 tsp red chili pepper flakes
1 tbsp fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 400ºF. Grease a 9×13-inch dish.
2. Saute garlic in olive oil. Add cream, broth, and simmer.
3. Saute spinach and mushrooms.
4. Layer ravioli, spinach, mushrooms, and sauce. Bake 20 min.
Prep Time: 10 min
Kcal: 350 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray. 2. In a large skillet, heat 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. 3. Carefully pour in the whipping cream and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, and let it cook for 3-4 minutes to slightly thicken. Season with black pepper and chili flakes. 4. In a separate pan, sauté the sliced mushrooms until they release their moisture and turn golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Add the fresh spinach and cook just until wilted, about 1-2 minutes. 5. Arrange the fresh ravioli in a single layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Evenly distribute the sautéed spinach and mushrooms over the ravioli. 6. Pour the creamy garlic sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese generously over the entire casserole. 7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. 8. Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a crunchier texture, serve with garlic bread or breadsticks. To elevate the presentation, garnish with extra fresh parsley, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or a few shavings of Parmesan cheese.
How-to Summary
This casserole simplifies classic stuffed pasta into a layered bake. The process involves creating a quick creamy garlic sauce, sautéing mushrooms and spinach, then layering everything with fresh ravioli and cheese before baking until golden and bubbly. It’s a streamlined method for achieving deep, comforting flavors with minimal active prep time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen ravioli instead of fresh? Yes, frozen ravioli can be used without thawing. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the covered baking time to ensure they cook through.
How can I make this dish vegetarian? Ensure your ravioli and vegetable broth are certified vegetarian. The recipe as written is naturally vegetarian.
What can I substitute for whipping cream? Full-fat coconut milk or a half-and-half mixture can work, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
How should I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish, covered, in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the garlic in the first step, as it can burn and turn bitter. Do not skip simmering the cream and broth mixture; this step is crucial for flavor development and slight thickening. Ensure you layer the ravioli in a single layer to promote even cooking. Finally, resist the urge to skip the foil-covered baking time, as this ensures the ravioli cooks through without the top cheese burning.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Mushroom Ravioli Casserole is the ultimate solution for a busy weeknight, delivering restaurant-quality comfort food with astonishing ease. By combining simple, fresh ingredients in a clever layered bake, you create a decadent, crowd-pleasing meal that feels special without demanding hours in the kitchen. It’s a reliably delicious recipe sure to earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.