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Baked Ravioli with Italian Sausage and Melty Mozzarella Recipe


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4 from 6 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

This Baked Ravioli recipe combines savory Italian sausage, tender cheese ravioli, and a rich tomato sauce layered with melted mozzarella cheese. Easily prepared with simple ingredients, it’s a comforting and crowd-pleasing baked pasta dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.


Ingredients

Meat and Sauce

  • 1 lb. Italian sausage
  • 1 yellow onion, diced
  • 1 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning

Pasta and Cheese

  • 25 oz. frozen cheese ravioli
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Garnish

  • 1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)


Instructions

  1. Cook the Sausage: Add the Italian sausage to a large skillet and cook over medium heat until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
  2. Sauté the Onion: While the sausage cooks, dice the onion. Add it to the skillet and cook over medium heat until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
  3. Make the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning. Combine well and bring the mixture to a simmer.
  4. Simmer the Sauce: Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce heat to medium-low, and let the sauce simmer gently, stirring occasionally while you prepare the ravioli.
  5. Cook the Ravioli: In a large pot of boiling water, cook the frozen cheese ravioli for 3-4 minutes or according to package instructions until tender. Drain well.
  6. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350ºF to prepare for baking the assembled casserole.
  7. First Layer: Spread 1 cup of the meat sauce evenly on the bottom of a casserole dish.
  8. Add Ravioli and Cheese: Layer half of the cooked ravioli over the sauce, then sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella, followed by adding 1 cup more sauce on top.
  9. Second Layer: Add the remaining ravioli, top with another cup of sauce, and finish with the remaining shredded mozzarella.
  10. Bake Covered: Cover the casserole with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes to heat through and meld flavors.
  11. Broil for Browning: Remove the foil, switch the oven to broil, and broil the casserole for a few minutes until the cheese is nicely browned. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
  12. Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top before serving. Enjoy your delicious baked ravioli!

Notes

  • Italian sausage can be replaced with ground beef or turkey for a different protein choice.
  • Fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh flavor but is optional.
  • Use frozen ravioli to simplify preparation; cook time may vary slightly depending on the brand.
  • Broiling time is quick; stay attentive to prevent cheese from burning.
  • This dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; just extend baking time slightly if baking cold.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian