The Perfect Weeknight Comfort Food

Are you craving the hearty flavors of lasagna but don’t have the time or energy for layering pasta sheets and preparing elaborate fillings? Look no further! This Ravioli Lasagna recipe is here to save your evening. Combining the rich, cheesy goodness of traditional lasagna with the convenience of store-bought ravioli, this dish is a game-changer for busy weeknights and cozy family dinners. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special and how you can whip it up effortlessly.

Why You’ll Love Ravioli Lasagna

This recipe is perfect for:

Busy Home Cooks: With minimal prep and easy assembly, Ravioli Lasagna is ideal for those short on time.
Cheese Lovers: Packed with ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan, this dish is a cheesy dream.
Meal Preppers: Ravioli Lasagna reheats beautifully, making it great for leftovers.
Families: It’s kid-approved and sure to be a hit at the dinner table.

Ravioli Lasagna takes the best elements of traditional lasagna and simplifies the process by using ravioli as the pasta layer. The result? A rich, satisfying dish that’s every bit as delicious but far less time-consuming.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to make this mouthwatering dish:

1 pound mild pork sausage
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 jars marinara sauce (24 ounces each)
¼ teaspoon salt (optional)
24 ounces cheese ravioli (chilled or frozen)
15 ounces ricotta cheese
½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
2 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
Fresh basil for garnish

Equipment You’ll Need

9×13-inch baking dish
Medium skillet
Wooden spoon or spatula
Aluminum foil
Non-stick cooking spray
Measuring spoons and cups

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set it aside.

2. Cook the Sausage

In a medium skillet over medium heat, brown the sausage, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. If the sausage sticks to the pan, add a splash or two of vegetable oil.

3. Prepare the Sauce

Once the sausage is fully cooked, stir in the Italian seasoning, black pepper, and marinara sauce. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 3-5 minutes. Taste the sauce and add the ¼ teaspoon of salt if needed.

4. Assemble the Layers

Spread 1/3 of the meat sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Add a layer of ravioli on top of the meat sauce.
Spread 1/3 of the ricotta cheese over the ravioli. (Don’t worry if it’s uneven; it will melt beautifully.)
Sprinkle 1/3 of the shredded mozzarella on top.

Repeat this process two more times, finishing with a generous layer of shredded cheese.

5. Bake the Lasagna

Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the lasagna is bubbling.

6. Let It Rest and Serve

Allow the lasagna to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh minced basil and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.

Tips and Variations

Tips for Success

Use High-Quality Ravioli: Fresh or frozen ravioli works equally well, but choose a brand with good-quality cheese filling.
Customize the Protein: Swap the pork sausage for ground beef, turkey, or even plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.
Make It Ahead: Assemble the lasagna a day in advance, cover tightly, and store in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving.

Variations

Spinach and Cheese Ravioli: Add an extra layer of flavor by using spinach-filled ravioli.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat.
Vegetarian Option: Omit the sausage and add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to the sauce.

Storing Leftovers

Ravioli Lasagna stores beautifully. Here’s how:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.
Freezer: Wrap the lasagna tightly with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Food and Drink Pairings

Complete your meal with these pairings:

Salad: A crisp Caesar salad or mixed greens with a tangy vinaigrette.
Bread: Garlic bread or a warm baguette to soak up the sauce.
Wine: Pair with a medium-bodied red like Chianti or a robust Zinfandel.
Non-Alcoholic: Serve with sparkling water infused with lemon or a classic iced tea.

FAQs

Can I use homemade marinara sauce?

Absolutely! Homemade marinara sauce will add a personal touch and elevate the flavors.

Do I need to thaw frozen ravioli?

No need to thaw; frozen ravioli can be used directly in the recipe. Just ensure even layering.

Can I use low-fat cheese?

Yes, but keep in mind that low-fat cheese may not melt as smoothly as full-fat versions.

Is it necessary to cover the lasagna with foil?

Covering the dish with foil helps retain moisture and prevents the cheese from burning. Removing the foil for the final 15 minutes ensures a golden, bubbly topping.

Final Thoughts

Ravioli Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food that brings the family together around the dinner table. Its simple preparation, rich flavors, and versatility make it a go-to dish for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a household favorite.

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