“`html
If you are craving a comforting, cheesy, and hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Ravioli Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender frozen cheese ravioli with a savory Italian sausage and rich tomato sauce, layered with creamy cheeses and baked until bubbly golden perfection. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or just want something simple yet show-stopping, this dish brings out the best in easy-to-find ingredients and turns them into a soul-satisfying feast everyone will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Putting together this Ravioli Casserole Recipe is delightfully straightforward, and each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a beautiful balance of flavors and textures. From the savory sausage to the creamy blend of cheeses and tangy tomato sauce, every element contributes something special.
- Italian sausage (1 pound): Adds juicy, seasoned richness and a meaty depth to the sauce.
- Spaghetti sauce (28 ounces): Provides the tomato base with herbs and sweetness, tying the dish together.
- Cottage cheese (1 cup): Creates a creamy, slightly tangy layer that keeps the casserole moist.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): Brings smooth richness and a luscious texture to the cheese mix.
- Sour cream (1/4 cup): Adds a subtle tang and enhances creaminess without overpowering.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses gentle, aromatic depth of garlic flavor throughout.
- Parmesan cheese (1/3 cup, grated): Offers a nutty, salty bite that complements the other cheeses.
- Frozen cheese ravioli (25 ounces): The star of the dish, tender pockets of cheesy goodness ready to soak up the sauce.
- Mozzarella cheese (2 cups): Melts perfectly on top for a golden, gooey, and stretchy finish.
- Chopped parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, bright pop of color and flavor when sprinkled on top.
How to Make Ravioli Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce and Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F to ensure it’s ready when your casserole is assembled. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray so your ravioli casserole won’t stick and will slide out easily after baking. Next, brown your Italian sausage in a medium pan until it’s cooked through and slightly crispy on the edges. Make sure to drain off any excess fat for a healthier and less greasy result. Stir in the spaghetti sauce, let the mixture warm gently, then turn off the heat and set it aside to keep the flavors melding while you prepare the next step.
Step 2: Mix the Cheese and Ravioli
In a large bowl, combine cottage cheese, softened cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. Stir these ingredients together until you have a silky, well-blended cheese mixture bursting with flavor and creaminess. Now, add the frozen cheese ravioli directly to this mixture, folding gently so every piece is coated and ready to soak up all that luscious texture during baking. This step is crucial for ensuring each ravioli is plump and flavorful inside the casserole.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Spread the coated ravioli evenly in the bottom of your prepared baking dish, creating a comforting bed of cheesy pasta. Next, pour the warm sausage and spaghetti sauce evenly over the ravioli, making sure every bite is packed with meaty tomato goodness. Finally, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese generously over the top for that irresistible golden crust that forms in the oven. Bake uncovered for 45 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the cheese to bubble beautifully. When finished, let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving—this helps it set slightly and makes it easier to portion out. For a finishing touch, sprinkle with chopped parsley if you like a little herbaceous brightness.
How to Serve Ravioli Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley brings a lovely pop of green color and a hint of herbaceous freshness that balances the richness of the casserole perfectly. If you want to get adventurous, a little drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil or a light dusting of crushed red pepper flakes will add an inviting aroma and a gentle kick to elevate the dish even further.
Side Dishes
This Ravioli Casserole Recipe shines on its own, but pairing it with some simple sides can turn it into a full-course experience. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully, while a basket of warm garlic bread invites everyone to scoop up every last bit of gooey cheese and savory sauce. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or asparagus also add vibrant color and a satisfying texture contrast to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, try baking the casserole in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets for personal servings that look charming served straight to the table. You could also layer colorful roasted veggies between the ravioli layers before baking for a fun twist and extra nutrients. Adding a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs on top right before baking adds a delightful crunchy texture that contrasts the creamy, tender ravioli inside.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Ravioli Casserole Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners later in the week. Reheat gently to maintain the gooey cheese and tender ravioli texture without drying it out.
Freezing
You can definitely freeze this casserole for up to 2 months. Just assemble the dish as instructed but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with foil and freeze. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as usual, adding a little extra time if it’s still chilled to ensure everything heats through beautifully.
Reheating
To reheat your Ravioli Casserole Recipe, pop individual servings in the microwave or warm the whole dish in a 350°F oven until heated evenly and the cheese is melted again. Cover with foil while reheating to keep moisture locked in and prevent the top from burning.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the Italian sausage and use your favorite marinara sauce or a vegetable-based pasta sauce. You might want to add some sautéed mushrooms or spinach to add depth and texture instead of meat.
Do I have to use frozen ravioli?
Frozen cheese ravioli works perfectly because it holds up well to baking without falling apart, and it’s super convenient. Fresh ravioli can be used, but handle it gently and reduce baking time slightly to prevent overcooking.
Can I substitute the cheeses for lactose-free options?
Yes, there are many lactose-free or dairy-free cheeses available that melt nicely. Just make sure they blend well together and keep the creamy balance, adjusting quantities as needed to maintain the creamy layers you love in this Ravioli Casserole Recipe.
Is it possible to prepare this recipe without sour cream?
You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or a little extra cream cheese if you prefer. Both add tang and creaminess, making sure the cheese layer remains lush and flavorful.
How spicy is this dish?
The recipe is mild by default, with no added heat aside from the Italian sausage’s gentle seasoning. If you want a bit more kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce, or serve with hot sauce on the side.
Final Thoughts
This Ravioli Casserole Recipe is a wonderful go-to comfort food that feels both indulgent and approachable. It transforms simple ingredients into a dish full of luscious textures and hearty, satisfying flavors that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes the meal your friends and family beg you to make again and again!
“`
Print
Ravioli Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This hearty and comforting Ravioli Casserole features tender frozen cheese ravioli smothered in a savory Italian sausage and spaghetti sauce mixture, layered with a creamy blend of cottage cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan, and garlic powder, then topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a satisfying family dinner, this baked casserole is easy to prepare and delivers delicious Italian-inspired flavors in a single dish.
Ingredients
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 28-ounce jar spaghetti sauce (any brand)
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 8-ounce package cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
Main Ingredients
- 1 25-ounce package frozen cheese ravioli
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese
Optional Garnish
- Chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set it aside.
- Cook sausage and sauce: In a medium pan over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage until fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain the excess fat and then stir in the spaghetti sauce. Once combined, turn off the heat and set the meat sauce aside.
- Mix cheeses and ravioli: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, softened cream cheese, sour cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. Stir this mixture until smooth and creamy. Add the frozen cheese ravioli to the bowl and gently stir to coat all the ravioli pieces evenly with the cheese mixture.
- Assemble casserole: Spread the coated ravioli evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour the Italian sausage and spaghetti sauce evenly over the ravioli layer and spread to cover.
- Add cheese topping and bake: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden in spots.
- Cool and garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes to allow it to set. Optionally, sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving for a fresh, colorful touch.
Notes
- Using frozen ravioli directly in the casserole adds convenience and helps the cheese mixture coat each piece well.
- You can substitute mild or spicy Italian sausage depending on your preferred heat level.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the meat sauce a few minutes longer before pouring over the ravioli.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute cheeses with vegan alternatives, though texture will vary.
- Leftovers keep well covered in the refrigerator up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
