This Beefy Baked Ravioli casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Layers of savory beef, marinara sauce, and gooey cheese come together for an indulgent meal that’s perfect for the whole family. The crispy edges and bubbling melted cheese give this dish a delightful contrast to the tender ravioli beneath.
It’s the kind of dish that’s both hearty and satisfying, ideal for a weeknight dinner or when you need to feed a crowd. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, this Beefy Baked Ravioli casserole is sure to become a household favorite. Serve it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a full Italian-inspired meal.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
-
1 pound ground beef
-
1 onion, chopped
-
1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
-
1 (25 oz) package frozen ravioli
-
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
-
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
1 teaspoon dried oregano
-
1 teaspoon dried basil
-
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
-
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
-
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is browned, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
-
Add marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture. Stir to combine and simmer for 5-10 minutes.
-
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of the beef sauce mixture on the bottom.
-
Add a layer of frozen ravioli over the sauce. Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese over the ravioli.
-
Repeat the layers, using the remaining beef sauce, ravioli, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses.
-
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
-
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes Kcal: 480 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
The Appeal of Beefy Baked Ravioli
One of the key reasons why Beefy Baked Ravioli is a go-to dish for many home cooks is its ability to bring together familiar flavors in a unique and satisfying way. The ravioli acts as a hearty base for the flavorful beef and marinara sauce, while the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses add an irresistible richness to the dish. The melted cheese on top forms a golden, bubbly layer that contrasts beautifully with the tender ravioli and savory beef below. It’s a meal that combines the best of both worlds—comfort food and Italian flavors—all baked to perfection in one dish.
This dish is perfect for those who want a no-fuss, one-pan meal that requires minimal prep time but delivers maximum flavor. The combination of beef and ravioli creates a filling meal, making it a great option for busy weeknights when you need something that everyone will enjoy. It’s also highly customizable, allowing you to switch out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For example, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef or add extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
A Hearty Meal for the Whole Family
One of the standout features of Beefy Baked Ravioli is its ability to satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or family members with diverse tastes, this dish can be tailored to suit different preferences. Kids love the cheesy layers and tender ravioli, while adults appreciate the rich beef and savory sauce. It’s the kind of meal that brings the family together around the dinner table, making it a perfect option for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
This dish also works well for meal prepping. You can make a large batch ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator, and then reheat it for an easy meal later in the week. Since it holds up well after being baked, Beefy Baked Ravioli is an excellent option for preparing in advance. It also freezes well, so you can store leftovers for future meals.
Serving Suggestions
Beefy Baked Ravioli is hearty and filling on its own, but pairing it with a few side dishes can elevate the meal even further. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast to the rich and cheesy casserole. The crispness of the salad complements the savory flavors of the ravioli, adding a refreshing balance to the dish.
Garlic bread is another fantastic side to serve with this meal. The crispy, buttery bread is perfect for mopping up the marinara sauce and adds an extra layer of indulgence to the meal. For a more substantial side, roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus, can be a great addition, offering a light, healthy counterpoint to the heaviness of the ravioli.
If you want to make the meal even more filling, consider serving a side of mashed potatoes or steamed broccoli. These sides not only pair well with the flavors of the baked ravioli but also provide additional texture and variety to the overall meal.
Why This Dish Is Perfect for Busy Weeknights
With its simple preparation and minimal hands-on time, Beefy Baked Ravioli is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. You don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen to create a satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy. After browning the beef and assembling the ingredients in a baking dish, all that’s left to do is pop it into the oven and wait for the magic to happen. The oven takes care of the rest, transforming the dish into a bubbly, golden masterpiece.
This makes it an excellent choice for families who are juggling busy schedules. It’s also great for anyone who wants to enjoy a homemade meal without spending too much time on preparation or cleanup. The fact that it all bakes in one dish means less mess in the kitchen and more time to relax or spend with loved ones.
Customizing Your Beefy Baked Ravioli
One of the reasons Beefy Baked Ravioli is so versatile is that it can be easily customized to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. If you’re not a fan of beef, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for the meat. Each of these options brings its own flavor profile to the dish while still keeping the heartiness and satisfying qualities of the original recipe.
For a vegetarian version, you can swap the beef for a plant-based protein, such as lentils or textured vegetable protein (TVP). You can also add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to make the dish more colorful and nutrient-packed. Cheese lovers can add more mozzarella or experiment with different types of cheese, such as ricotta or cheddar, for a unique twist.
Additionally, if you prefer a spicier dish, you can add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the beef sauce for a bit of heat. The beauty of Beefy Baked Ravioli is that it’s adaptable to whatever you have in your kitchen or to your personal tastes, ensuring that every batch is a little different and always delicious.
Conclusion
Beefy Baked Ravioli is the perfect meal for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight, a family gathering, or a casual dinner with friends. Its rich, savory flavors and cheesy goodness make it a crowd-pleaser, and its simplicity and ease of preparation make it a practical choice for home cooks of all skill levels. The versatility of this dish means you can customize it to your liking, whether you’re sticking to the classic recipe or experimenting with new ingredients.
By using simple, affordable ingredients, you can create a hearty meal that everyone will love. Whether served with a side of salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables, Beefy Baked Ravioli will always satisfy and delight. So, the next time you’re looking for a quick and tasty dinner option, give this dish a try and enjoy the comforting flavors of Beefy Baked Ravioli at home.
This dish is a great addition to your weekly meal rotation, providing both convenience and comfort. Plus, its ability to feed a crowd or be prepped in advance makes it a great choice for busy cooks. So, why not give it a try and make it a new family favorite?