This Baked Creamy Cheese Ravioli Casserole is a comforting, cheesy delight perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Made with layers of creamy cheese mixture, marinara sauce, and melty mozzarella, this casserole is incredibly easy to make and packed with flavor. Using frozen cheese ravioli saves time while delivering a deliciously satisfying meal that everyone will love. The result is a bubbling, golden casserole with a rich, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked ravioli. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color, and enjoy every cheesy bite!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- Frozen Cheese Ravioli: 1 (25 oz) package
- Cream Cheese: 8 oz, softened
- Sour Cream: 1 cup
- Marinara Sauce: 2 cups
- Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups, shredded (divided)
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
- Fresh Basil or Parsley: for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Creamy Cheese Mixture:
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce in an even layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange half of the frozen cheese ravioli over the sauce. Spoon half of the creamy cheese mixture over the ravioli, spreading it gently to cover.
- Repeat the Layers:
- Pour another 1 cup of marinara sauce over the creamy cheese layer, spreading it evenly. Add the remaining ravioli on top, followed by the remaining creamy cheese mixture.
- Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the casserole to create a melty, golden topping.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy ravioli casserole with a side of garlic bread or a green salad.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: Approximately 420 kcal
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I use fresh or refrigerated ravioli instead of frozen?
- Yes! Fresh or refrigerated ravioli can be used, but the baking time may need to be reduced slightly. Check for doneness after 20-25 minutes.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the covered baking time since it will be cold from the refrigerator.
3. Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
- Yes, adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini can enhance flavor and nutrition. Sauté the vegetables lightly before adding them to the layers for the best texture.
4. Can I freeze this casserole?
- You can freeze it, but dairy-based dishes may have a slightly different texture when thawed. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
5. What other sauces can I use?
- While marinara is classic, feel free to use Alfredo sauce, pesto, or a mix of sauces for different flavors.
Tips for Making the Best Creamy Cheese Ravioli Casserole:
- Soften the Cream Cheese – Softened cream cheese mixes smoothly with the other ingredients, creating a creamy texture without lumps.
- Use High-Quality Marinara Sauce – Since marinara is a key flavor, opt for a quality marinara or make homemade if you have time. It adds depth and richness to the dish.
- Adjust the Cheese to Your Taste – If you love extra-cheesy casseroles, add more mozzarella or Parmesan to the top layer. Feel free to experiment with cheeses like provolone or Gruyère for extra flavor.
- Cover and Uncover During Baking – Covering the casserole initially helps everything cook through evenly without drying out. Removing the foil toward the end allows the cheese to get golden and bubbly.
- Let the Casserole Rest Before Serving – Allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking helps the layers set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Freezing: To freeze, assemble the casserole and cover tightly with foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking, or bake from frozen with additional time.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating in the microwave, cover with a microwave-safe cover to prevent drying.
Conclusion:
Baked Creamy Cheese Ravioli Casserole is a deliciously comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and full of cheesy goodness. With layers of tender ravioli, creamy cheese filling, and rich marinara sauce, this casserole is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Ideal for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or make-ahead meals, it’s versatile, filling, and endlessly customizable. Serve it with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad, and enjoy this warm, satisfying dish that brings everyone to the table.