Description
Cheesy Ravioli Casserole
Ingredients:
1 jar roasted garlic pasta sauce
1 lb ground beef
1 package beef ravioli
1 tsp garlic powder
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella
Preparation Steps:
Preheat oven to 375°F.
Brown ground beef with garlic powder.
Spread a thin layer of roasted garlic sauce in a baking dish.
Layer beef ravioli, beef, sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
Bake for 30 minutes.
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect casserole every time.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the 1 lb of ground beef. As it cooks, break it into crumbles and season with 1 tsp of garlic powder. Drain any excess fat.
- Open the jar of roasted garlic pasta sauce. Spread a thin, even layer (about ½ cup) on the bottom of the prepared baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the frozen or fresh beef ravioli in a single layer over the sauce. You do not need to pre-cook frozen ravioli.
- Spoon the cooked ground beef evenly over the layer of ravioli.
- Pour the remaining pasta sauce over the beef, ensuring most of the ravioli are covered.
- Sprinkle the 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly across the top, followed by the ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a vegetable side, try roasted broccoli or garlic breadsticks. A glass of Chianti or a light red wine complements the robust garlic and beef flavors perfectly.
How-to Summary
Brown seasoned ground beef, layer with uncooked ravioli and roasted garlic sauce in a dish, top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, then bake covered at 375°F for 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta sauce?
Absolutely. A marinara, meat sauce, or even a creamy Alfredo sauce would work well. Adjust the flavor profile to your liking.
Do I need to boil the ravioli first?
No, one of the best parts of this recipe is that you use the ravioli straight from the package. The moisture from the sauce cooks it perfectly in the oven.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground Italian sausage, turkey, or chicken are excellent substitutes. For a vegetarian version, use plant-based crumbles and cheese ravioli.
How do 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
- Not Draining the Beef: Failing to drain the fat from the browned ground beef will make the final dish greasy.
- Skipping the Bottom Sauce Layer: This thin layer is crucial to prevent the ravioli from sticking to the dish.
- Overbaking: Baking for too long or without the foil cover can cause the ravioli to become tough and the cheese to burn. Follow the covered/uncovered timing.
- Serving Immediately: Cutting into the casserole right out of the oven causes it to be soupy. Letting it rest allows the sauce to thicken.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Ravioli Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining familiar flavors into a simple, crowd-pleasing dish. Its minimal prep and flexible ingredients make it a reliable go-to for busy weeknights. The layers of pasta, savory beef, and melted cheese baked in a rich garlic sauce are guaranteed to satisfy. Give this recipe a try and share your own garlic-loving twists in the comments below!