Easy Cheesy Ravioli Lasagna: The Ultimate Comfort Food Casserole Recipe
Imagine your two favorite pasta dishes, ravioli and lasagna, uniting to create an incredibly satisfying and surprisingly easy-to-make casserole. That’s exactly what our Cheesy Ravioli Lasagna offers – a comforting, layered dish that brings together tender ravioli, rich marinara, savory sausage, fresh greens, and a generous amount of melted cheese. This recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it a perfect choice for a cozy family dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck.
Forget the fuss of boiling traditional lasagna noodles; this clever twist utilizes pre-made ravioli, dramatically cutting down on preparation time without sacrificing any of the hearty, delicious appeal. Each bite delivers a delightful combination of textures and tastes, from the soft pasta pockets bursting with cheesy goodness to the robust, herby sauce and the tender, nutrient-packed greens. It’s truly comfort food written all over it, promising a warm and fulfilling meal that everyone will love.
Why This Cheesy Ravioli Lasagna Recipe Works
This delicious ravioli lasagna recipe stands out as one of our absolute favorite casseroles to prepare for dinner, and for good reason! Its ingenious design simplifies the classic lasagna concept by swapping traditional flat noodles for plump, pre-filled ravioli. This single change drastically reduces your prep time, eliminating the need to boil and meticulously layer individual pasta sheets, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you crave homemade comfort without the lengthy commitment.
Beyond its incredible convenience, this casserole is a symphony of flavors and textures. It boasts hearty layers of savory Italian chicken sausage, vibrant baby spinach or kale for a touch of freshness and nutrition, a rich marinara sauce infused with diced tomatoes and aromatic garlic, and, of course, an abundance of gooey, melted mozzarella cheese. Every forkful offers a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and slightly tangy notes, all baked together into a bubbly, golden-brown masterpiece.
Its versatility is another key factor in its success. You can easily adapt the ingredients to suit your family’s preferences or what you have on hand, from different types of ravioli to various proteins and greens. It’s a dish that feels special enough for guests but is simple enough for a regular family meal. As dedicated fans of all things lasagna, we know a good layered pasta dish when we see one. While our Classic Italian Lasagna, Crockpot Lasagna, and even more adventurous options like Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna, and our delightful Chocolate Lasagna (for dessert!) each shine in their own unique ways, this ravioli lasagna offers a fantastic shortcut to that beloved comfort without compromising on flavor. It truly embodies the spirit of easy, hearty, and satisfying home cooking.
Key Ingredients for Your Ravioli Lasagna
Crafting this incredible Ravioli Lasagna requires a straightforward list of ingredients, most of which are readily available at your local grocery store. For precise measurements and detailed instructions, remember to refer to the printable recipe card located at the conclusion of this post. Here’s a closer look at the essential components and why they work so well together:
PASTA: The star of this dish is undoubtedly the ravioli. We recommend using **refrigerated cheese ravioli** for its superior texture and quick cooking time. Refrigerated varieties tend to be softer and cook more evenly in the casserole compared to their frozen counterparts. However, don’t limit yourself! Feel free to experiment with a meat-filled ravioli for a richer flavor profile or a veggie ravioli for an extra boost of hidden vegetables. If frozen ravioli is your only option, it will still work beautifully, but be prepared to potentially extend the baking time by an additional 10-15 minutes to ensure the pasta is cooked through and tender.
SAUCE: A robust and flavorful sauce is crucial for any great lasagna. A high-quality **jarred marinara** sauce offers incredible convenience and a consistent base flavor. Look for a brand you enjoy, as its taste will shine through. To elevate the sauce and add depth, we incorporate a can of **undrained diced tomatoes**. The liquid from the can contributes moisture and helps create a richer, slightly chunkier texture, while the tomatoes themselves add a bright, acidic counterpoint to the savory elements. For those who prefer a homemade touch, you can certainly substitute with your own Bolognese Sauce or a preferred homemade marinara recipe.
SAUSAGE: For a delicious and slightly lighter take on this comfort classic, we opt for **Italian chicken sausage**. This provides a fantastic savory foundation with traditional Italian herbs and spices without being overly heavy. If chicken isn’t your preference, this recipe is incredibly flexible. You can easily substitute a pound of lean ground beef, browned and drained, or another kind of sausage such as mild or hot Italian pork sausage, depending on your desired spice level and flavor. Just be sure to brown and drain any excess fat from ground meats before incorporating them into the mixture.
GREENS: To balance the richness of the cheese and meat, we fold in fresh greens. **Baby spinach or baby kale** are both excellent choices for this recipe. They wilt down beautifully during baking, adding essential nutrients, a subtle earthy flavor, and a pop of color without overwhelming the dish. Feel free to use whichever you prefer or have on hand; both contribute to a well-rounded and wholesome meal. If you’re not a fan of greens, you can technically omit them, but we highly recommend their inclusion for both taste and nutrition.
CHEESE: No lasagna is complete without an abundance of gooey cheese! We use shredded mozzarella for its fantastic melting properties and mild, creamy flavor. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese between the layers or on top before baking. A touch of fresh basil, chopped, adds a fragrant, herbaceous note that brightens the entire casserole, while a clove of minced garlic and a teaspoon of Italian seasoning infuse the sauce with classic Italian aroma.
How to Assemble Your Delicious Ravioli Lasagna
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are provided to help you visualize the process of making this comforting casserole. For the complete printable version of this recipe, including all measurements and comprehensive instructions, please jump to the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature for even cooking once your lasagna is ready to go in. Next, generously grease a standard 9×13 inch baking dish (approximately 3-quarts capacity) with non-stick cooking spray. Greasing the dish is a crucial step that prevents the pasta and cheese from sticking, making for easier serving and cleanup.
- Combine Fillings and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine your prepared greens (baby kale or baby spinach, coarsely chopped), cooked and crumbled Italian chicken sausage, 3/4 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and the fresh basil. Toss these ingredients together until well distributed. In a separate large bowl, prepare your flavorful sauce by mixing together the marinara sauce, the can of undrained diced tomatoes, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Stir until all the sauce ingredients are thoroughly combined, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Begin Layering the Lasagna: Now it’s time to build your delicious casserole! Spread about 1 cup of the prepared marinara mixture evenly across the bottom of your greased baking dish. This initial layer of sauce helps to prevent the ravioli from sticking and adds moisture from the start. On top of the sauce, arrange half of your refrigerated ravioli in a single, even layer. It’s okay if they slightly overlap. Then, evenly spoon half of the kale and sausage mixture over the ravioli.
- Complete the Layers: Place another cup of the marinara sauce mixture evenly over the kale and sausage layer. Follow this with the remaining half of the ravioli, arranging them carefully. Next, distribute the remaining kale and sausage mixture over the second layer of ravioli. Finally, pour and spread the last of the marinara sauce over the top layer, ensuring everything is well covered.
- Add the Final Cheese Topping: Generously sprinkle the remaining 3/4 cup of mozzarella cheese over the very top of the casserole. This final layer of cheese will melt into a bubbly, golden-brown crust, adding irresistible flavor and texture.
- Bake to Perfection: To prevent the top from browning too quickly and to ensure the ravioli cooks thoroughly, spray one side of a piece of aluminum foil with non-stick spray (to prevent cheese from sticking) and cover the baking dish tightly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through, bubbly around the edges, and the cheese on top has melted and begun to turn a beautiful golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the Ravioli Lasagna from the oven. For best results and easier serving, allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the layers to set slightly. If desired, garnish with additional fresh basil before serving. Slice into generous portions and serve warm. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad and some crusty garlic bread.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ravioli Lasagna
Absolutely! Ravioli lasagna is an excellent meal prep option. You can freeze the entire casserole or individual portions. To freeze, allow the baked lasagna to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in a double layer of plastic wrap and a layer of aluminum foil (if freezing the whole dish) or place individual portions in airtight freezer-safe containers. It will keep beautifully in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly and heated through, usually 30-45 minutes for a whole dish.
Yes, this casserole is perfect for making ahead! You have two main options:
- Refrigerate: Assemble the entire lasagna, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate it for up to 3-4 days before baking. When ready to bake, you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time since it will be starting cold.
- Freeze: As mentioned above, you can assemble and freeze the unbaked lasagna for up to 3 months. If baking from frozen, cover tightly with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 60-75 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
Making it ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully, often resulting in an even more delicious dish!
This ravioli lasagna recipe is highly adaptable!
- Protein: You can easily substitute the Italian chicken sausage for a different type of sausage (e.g., hot Italian pork sausage for a kick, or mild Italian pork sausage). Ground beef or even ground turkey are also excellent alternatives; just be sure to brown and drain any excess fat before adding. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the sausage or replace it with plant-based crumbles or extra vegetables like sautéed mushrooms.
- Greens: While baby spinach and baby kale are recommended, you can use one or the other, or even a mix. If you’re not a fan of greens, you can technically omit them altogether, though they add valuable nutrients and a subtle freshness.
- Ravioli: Experiment with different flavored or stuffed ravioli! Mushroom ravioli, spinach and ricotta ravioli, or even a spicy sausage ravioli could add unique twists to the dish. If using frozen ravioli, remember to extend the baking time slightly.
- Herbs: If fresh basil isn’t available, you can substitute it with dried basil. However, remember that dried herbs are more potent than fresh, so cut the measurement in half (e.g., use 1/4 cup dried basil instead of 1/2 cup fresh).
- Cheese: While mozzarella is key for meltiness, feel free to add a layer of ricotta cheese for extra creaminess, or sprinkle some grated Parmesan or provolone for a sharper flavor.
Ravioli Lasagna is quite a complete meal on its own, but a few simple sides can perfectly complement its rich flavors. Consider serving it with a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to add freshness and cut through the richness. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is always a fantastic accompaniment for soaking up any extra sauce. Steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans also make for a healthy and delicious side.
Leftover Ravioli Lasagna stores wonderfully! Allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer individual portions into airtight containers. It will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can easily reheat individual servings in the microwave or in a preheated oven until warmed through. Freezing leftovers is also a great option, as detailed in the “Can I freeze ravioli lasagna?” FAQ above.
This Ravioli Lasagna casserole, with its enticing layers of rich marinara, tender cheese ravioli, gooey mozzarella, savory Italian chicken sausage, and nutritious baby spinach or kale, is baked to a bubbly golden brown perfection. Its ease of preparation combined with its hearty, comforting flavors makes it an instant family favorite. Furthermore, this casserole is incredibly freezer-friendly, allowing you to prepare it ahead of time for future meals, making it a brilliant solution for busy evenings or when you need a quick, delicious dinner on standby.
More Delightful Casserole Recipes to Explore
If you love the convenience and comfort of a good casserole, you’re in for a treat! We have a wide array of casserole recipes that are perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to weekend gatherings. Explore these other family-friendly options that bring ease and flavor to your kitchen:
- Hearty Taco Casserole
- Classic John Wayne Casserole
- Comforting Chicken & Dumpling Casserole
- Savory Southwest Ground Beef Casserole
- Zesty Mexican Chicken Casserole
- Wholesome Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
- Delectable Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole
- Elegant Lasagna Roll Ups
- Rich Million Dollar Spaghetti
I genuinely love to bake and cook, and there’s nothing I enjoy more than sharing my culinary experiences and delicious recipes with all of you! Remembering to come back each day for new inspiration can sometimes be tough amidst a busy schedule, which is why I offer a convenient newsletter service. Every time a new and exciting recipe is posted, you’ll be among the first to know. Simply subscribe today and start receiving your free daily recipes directly to your inbox!
Ravioli Lasagna
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 6 oz baby kale OR baby spinach, 1 5-6 oz bag, coarsely chopped
- 12 oz Italian chicken sausage cooked and chopped
- 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese shredded, divided
- ½ cup fresh basil chopped
- 28 oz marinara 1 jar (approx. 3.5 cups)
- 14.5 oz diced tomatoes 1 can, undrained
- 1 clove garlic minced (or 1/2 tsp garlic powder)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 18 oz refrigerated cheese ravioli 2 9-oz packages (or your preferred filling)
Things You’ll Need
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13×9 baking dish (3-quart capacity)
Before You Begin
- Herb Adjustment: If you’re using dried basil instead of fresh, remember that dried herbs are more concentrated. Cut the measurement in half for dried (e.g., 1/4 cup dried basil if replacing 1/2 cup fresh).
- Ravioli Choice: Feel free to customize this recipe by using any type of ravioli you prefer! Cheese, meat, or vegetable-filled varieties will all work well. If opting for frozen ravioli, be aware you might need to increase the overall baking time slightly to ensure they cook through.
- Protein Options: The Italian chicken sausage can be easily substituted. You can use a pound of ground beef, ground turkey, or another kind of Italian sausage (mild or hot) based on your taste. Just ensure any ground meat is browned and drained of excess fat before mixing. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat or use plant-based crumbles.
- Make Ahead & Freezing: This baked ravioli lasagna makes fantastic leftovers and is an excellent dish for meal prepping. It can be fully assembled and refrigerated for 3-4 days before baking, or frozen (baked or unbaked) for up to 3 months. Always thaw frozen lasagna in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Serving Suggestions: This hearty casserole pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad and some warm garlic bread to complete your Italian-inspired meal.
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190°C). Generously grease a 9×13 inch (3-quart) baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
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In a large bowl, combine the chopped kale (or spinach), cooked and chopped Italian chicken sausage, 3/4 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and the fresh basil. Toss gently until well mixed. In a separate large bowl, prepare the sauce by mixing together the marinara sauce, undrained diced tomatoes, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning until thoroughly combined.
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Spread about 1 cup of the prepared sauce mixture evenly across the bottom of your greased baking dish. Arrange half of the refrigerated ravioli over the sauce in a single layer. Evenly distribute half of the kale and sausage mixture over the ravioli. Repeat this layering: spread another cup of sauce, then the remaining ravioli, followed by the rest of the kale and sausage mixture, and finally, the remaining sauce.
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Top the entire casserole with the remaining 3/4 cup of mozzarella cheese. Lightly spray a piece of aluminum foil with non-stick spray on one side (to prevent sticking to the cheese) and tightly cover the baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the lasagna is heated through, the sauce is bubbly, and the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden brown.
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Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh basil, if desired, and enjoy your comforting Cheesy Ravioli Lasagna!
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.