Looking for a hearty, delicious, and easy-to-make meal that the whole family will love? Baked Ravioli with Spinach is the perfect solution. This dish combines the classic flavors of Italian cuisine with the convenience of a casserole, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
To make this comforting dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 package (about 20 oz) of frozen cheese ravioli
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Ravioli Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the frozen ravioli and cook according to package instructions until they float to the top, about 3-5 minutes. Drain the ravioli and set aside.
- Prepare the Ricotta Mixture In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, garlic powder, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the cooked ravioli over the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the ravioli, then sprinkle half of the chopped spinach on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining ravioli, ricotta mixture, and spinach. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top.
- Add the Cheese Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake the Casserole Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Baked Ravioli with Spinach is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider serving it with:
- A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or warm, crusty Italian bread
- Steamed or roasted vegetables for added nutrition
Tips and Variations
- Protein Boost: Add cooked Italian sausage, ground beef, or shredded chicken for extra protein.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian-friendly version, ensure the marinara sauce and cheeses are suitable for vegetarians.
- Different Greens: Swap out spinach for kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor profile.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Conclusion
Baked Ravioli with Spinach is a delicious and comforting dish that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Its rich flavors, cheesy goodness, and ease of preparation make it a winner for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a satisfying meal that brings the taste of Italy right to your table.