Description
Pepperoni Pizza Ravioli Bake
Combine the best of Italian comfort foods with this delicious Pepperoni Pizza Ravioli Bake! Creamy cheese-filled ravioli topped with tangy marinara, gooey mozzarella, and crispy pepperoni—this is a family favorite that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
1 lb cheese ravioli (fresh or frozen)
2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
12-15 slices of pepperoni
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook the Ravioli:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ravioli according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Assemble the Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom. Arrange the cooked ravioli in an even layer. Top with the remaining marinara sauce, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top.
Add the Pepperoni:
Arrange pepperoni slices over the cheese, ensuring even coverage. For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of black pepper or Italian seasoning.
Bake:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden finish, broil on high for 1-2 minutes.
Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot!
Enjoy!
This Pepperoni Pizza Ravioli Bake is a fun and comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Step-by-Step Guide
For perfect results, follow this detailed guide. First, ensure your baking dish (like a 9×13-inch) is lightly greased. After cooking and draining the ravioli, let them sit in the colander for a minute to prevent a watery bake. When spreading the initial sauce layer, use about 1/4 cup to just coat the dish. Arrange the ravioli in a single, snug layer. Pour the remaining sauce evenly, making sure each ravioli gets some coverage to prevent drying out. Mix the mozzarella and Parmesan together before sprinkling for even cheesy distribution. For crispier pepperoni, place them under the cheese layer instead of on top.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty bake is a meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a crisp Caesar or simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic knots or cheesy breadsticks are perfect for dipping. For a lighter option, serve with roasted broccoli or zucchini. Don’t forget a sprinkle of red pepper flakes and extra Parmesan at the table for those who want an extra kick.
How-to Summary
In short: Cook cheese ravioli al dente. Layer in a baking dish starting with sauce, then ravioli, more sauce, and cheeses. Top with pepperoni. Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until bubbly, then broil briefly for browning. Garnish with fresh basil and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! Assemble the dish completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
Can I use frozen ravioli without boiling first? Absolutely. Use frozen ravioli straight from the bag, but increase the sauce by 1/2 cup and the bake time by 10-15 minutes to ensure they cook through.
What other toppings can I add? Sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, black olives, or cooked Italian sausage are excellent additions. Add them between the sauce and cheese layers.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or re-crisp in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.
Can I use a different pasta? While ravioli is ideal, you can substitute with tortellini or even large cheese-filled shells following the same method.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the ravioli before baking: Cook only to al dente, as they will soften further in the oven.
- Using too much sauce: This can make the bake soupy. Stick to the recommended amount.
- Not letting it rest: Allow the bake to cool for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the layers set for cleaner serving.
- Skipping the broil step: The brief broil is key for that perfect, golden-brown, crispy cheese and pepperoni finish.
Conclusion
This Pepperoni Pizza Ravioli Bake is the ultimate fusion dish, delivering maximum comfort and flavor with minimal effort. It’s endlessly customizable, reliably delicious, and guaranteed to satisfy both pizza and pasta cravings. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a crowd-pleasing dinner that feels special any night of the week. Give it a try and watch it become a new staple in your recipe rotation.