If you love the comforting layers of classic lasagna but crave something that shakes up the routine, this Ravioli Lasagna Recipe is your newfound go-to dish. Combining tender, stuffed ravioli with rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella, it brings all the joy of lasagna with a fun, fresh twist. Whether it’s a family dinner or a crowd-pleaser for guests, this recipe delivers bold flavor and irresistible texture that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large round black-handled pot filled with thick red meat sauce containing small meat chunks, sitting on a white marbled surface with a black spoon resting inside the pot. To the top left, there is a wooden board with several pale yellow round ravioli and some shredded white cheese. To the top right, there is a white bowl with creamy white sauce speckled with herbs, and a blue spatula resting inside. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient here plays an vital role, from the creamy cheese mixture to the hearty meat sauce and the star of the dish, the ravioli. Together, they create a perfect balance of flavor, richness, and color in this easy-to-assemble meal.

  • Ricotta: The creamy base that adds a luxurious texture and mild tang to the layers.
  • Egg (beaten): Helps bind the ricotta mixture for a smooth, firm filling.
  • Parmesan cheese (grated): Adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the ricotta beautifully.
  • Oregano, basil, parsley (¾ teaspoon each): These Italian herbs infuse freshness and classic aroma into the cheese mix.
  • Salt (½ teaspoon): Perfectly seasons the ricotta blend without overpowering.
  • Ground beef (1 lb.): Creates a rich, savory meat sauce that’s full of hearty flavor.
  • Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning the meat perfectly.
  • Yellow onion (diced): Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef.
  • Garlic (3 cloves): Elevates the sauce with aromatic punch.
  • Worcestershire sauce (1 teaspoon): Gives umami depth and enhances the savoriness of the meat sauce.
  • Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle tang that brightens the flavor profile.
  • Tomato paste (1 tablespoon): Thickens and intensifies the tomato base.
  • Italian seasoning (¾ teaspoon): Blends all the dried herbs together to create the classic Italian flavor.
  • Marinara sauce (two 24 oz. jars): The saucy heart of the layers, combining tangy tomatoes and herbs.
  • Chicken broth (½ cup): Lightens the sauce slightly and keeps everything moist.
  • Refrigerated ravioli (40 oz., uncooked): The fun alternative to traditional noodles, stuffed with your favorite fillings.
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups): Melts into a golden, gooey topping that completes the dish.

How to Make Ravioli Lasagna Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture and Meat Sauce

Start by mixing the ricotta, egg, parmesan, and herbs in a medium bowl until smooth—this mixture will add creaminess between the ravioli layers. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350° F and make your meat sauce by browning ground beef with onions and seasoning it with garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning. Add marinara and chicken broth, then simmer gently to meld all the flavors.

Step 2: Layering the Dish

Spread a generous portion of marinara on the bottom of a greased 9 x 13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking and add flavor. Arrange half of the uncooked ravioli over the sauce—don’t worry about overlapping, as they’ll expand while baking. Dollop the ricotta mixture over the ravioli and spread it gently, then cover with half the meat sauce. Repeat with the remaining ravioli and meat sauce, creating beautiful layers.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Bake

Top everything with a thick blanket of shredded mozzarella for that classic melty finish. Cover the dish—if using foil, spray it lightly to prevent cheese sticking—and bake at 350° F for 35 minutes. This allows the ravioli to cook through and flavors to meld perfectly.

Step 4: Broil to Perfection

Uncover and broil the dish on low heat for up to 3 minutes, keeping a close eye so the cheese browns beautifully without burning. After removing from the oven, let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting time helps the layers set so each slice stays intact and looks as stunning as it tastes.

How to Serve Ravioli Lasagna Recipe

A white bowl filled with a layered dish of round ravioli pasta covered in a thick red tomato sauce mixed with pieces of brown ground meat. The ravioli have a golden yellow color with slightly browned edges, and the sauce is topped with melted white cheese that looks soft and creamy. There is a small bunch of fresh green basil leaves placed on the side of the bowl. The background shows a white marbled surface with some green herbs partially visible at the top left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of chopped parsley add a pop of color and fresh herbal aroma that complements the savory, cheesy richness beautifully. For an extra special touch, a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a scattering of crushed red pepper flakes can bring added warmth and depth.

Side Dishes

A simple green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the lasagna. Roasted vegetables, like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, also partner wonderfully by adding texture and earthiness to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve slices on large platters for family-style dining or plate individual portions topped with a basil leaf for an elegant dinner party. You can even dress up the table with fresh herbs or garlic bread on the side to make the meal feel festive and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, wrap leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy the delicious flavors without the fuss of cooking all over again.

Freezing

This Ravioli Lasagna Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap it securely in foil and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Reheating

For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat covered in the oven at 350° F for 20-25 minutes until heated through and bubbly. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick fix, just be sure to cover to retain moisture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen ravioli for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen ravioli works just as well and might even hold its shape better during baking. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.

What type of ravioli is best for this lasagna?

Cheese-filled or spinach and cheese ravioli are classic choices, but feel free to experiment with meat or mushroom-filled ravioli for extra flavor and texture variety.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and substitute with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep the flavors rich and satisfying.

How spicy is this lasagna?

This Ravioli Lasagna Recipe is mild by default, but you can easily add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat sauce if you like a little heat.

Do I need to pre-cook the ravioli before baking?

No need! The ravioli bakes perfectly in this recipe without pre-cooking, soaking up the sauce and cooking through beautifully in the oven.

Final Thoughts

This Ravioli Lasagna Recipe brings such joy to the dinner table with its comforting layers and fun twist on a classic favorite. Once you try it, I promise it will become a trusted staple, perfect for bringing loved ones together and creating delicious memories. Give it a go and enjoy every cheesy, saucy bite!

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Ravioli Lasagna Recipe

Ravioli Lasagna Recipe


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4.2 from 13 reviews

  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings

Description

Ravioli Lasagna is a decadent twist on traditional lasagna, layering refrigerated ravioli with a rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta mixture, and melted mozzarella cheese. This comforting casserole is baked until bubbly and topped with a golden broil, making it a perfect hearty meal for family dinners or special occasions.


Ingredients

Ricotta Mixture

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • ¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated
  • ¾ teaspoon oregano
  • ¾ teaspoon basil
  • ¾ teaspoon parsley
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Meat Sauce

  • 1 lb. ground beef
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • ¾ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 (24 oz.) jars marinara sauce
  • ½ cup chicken broth

Other

  • 40 oz. refrigerated ravioli, uncooked
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese


Instructions

  1. Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, beaten egg, grated parmesan, oregano, basil, parsley, and salt. Mix thoroughly and set aside.
  2. Preheat Oven and Prep Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a deep 9 x 13-inch casserole dish and spread 1 heaping cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of the dish, reserving the remaining marinara sauce for the meat sauce.
  3. Cook Ground Beef and Onions: Season ground beef with salt and pepper. Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add the ground beef along with diced onions. Cook until beef is browned and onions are soft, breaking the meat apart frequently. Drain excess grease and lower heat to medium.
  4. Add Flavorings to Meat: Stir in minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Simmer Meat Sauce: Add the remaining marinara sauce and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat and let it cook uncovered for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat once done.
  6. Layer Ravioli: Arrange half of the uncooked ravioli in an overlapping layer over the marinara sauce spread in the casserole dish.
  7. Add Meat and Ricotta Layers: Spoon half of the meat sauce evenly over the ravioli layer. Dollop the ricotta mixture across the meat sauce and gently spread out into an even layer.
  8. Add Remaining Ravioli and Meat Sauce: Layer the remaining ravioli over the ricotta, followed by the remaining meat sauce.
  9. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top layer.
  10. Cover and Bake: Cover the casserole dish with a lid or aluminum foil sprayed with non-stick cooking spray on the side that will touch the cheese to prevent sticking. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes.
  11. Broil for Finish: Remove the cover and set the oven to broil at 450°F or low broil. Broil the lasagna for up to 3 minutes, watching closely until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned on top.
  12. Rest Before Serving: Remove from the oven and let the lasagna sit for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. Slice like traditional lasagna, cutting through the ravioli layers.

Notes

  • Using refrigerated ravioli is key for this recipe as it cooks thoroughly when baked inside the casserole.
  • Two jars (48 oz.) of marinara sauce ensures there is ample sauce for both the base and the meat sauce mixture.
  • Covering the casserole with foil sprayed with non-stick spray prevents cheese from sticking and tearing when removing the cover after baking.
  • Letting the dish rest before serving helps the layers set, making it easier to cut neat slices.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American-Italian

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