If you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner idea that the whole family will love, then look no further than Ravioli Lasagna. This delicious twist on traditional lasagna is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
- 1 bag (24 ounces) frozen cheese ravioli (or your favorite flavor)
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce (or homemade sauce)
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sauce (Optional):
If using ground beef or Italian sausage, brown the meat in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened. Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors. Remove from heat. - Assemble the Lasagna:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of the sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Place a single layer of frozen ravioli over the sauce, covering the bottom of the dish. Spread a layer of sauce over the ravioli, followed by dollops of ricotta cheese (if using). Sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce and ravioli. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of sauce and a generous topping of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. - Bake the Lasagna:
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 and bubbly and the ravioli is heated through. - Serve:
Let the ravioli lasagna cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Tips:
- Ravioli Choice: Use any type of ravioli you like, such as spinach, meat, or mushroom. You can also mix different types for variety.
- Cheese Options: For a creamier texture, mix some ricotta cheese with a beaten egg and a bit of grated Parmesan before layering.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the meat and add sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the sauce for a vegetarian version.
Ravioli Lasagna is a delicious and easy twist on traditional lasagna, using ravioli in place of the usual pasta sheets. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal that the whole family will love. Enjoy!