Name: Easy Cheesy Baked Ravioli (Four Ingredients!)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 24 ounces frozen cheese ravioli (no need to thaw); 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade); 2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded); 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (grated); fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

When it comes to comfort food, there’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy bake that brings everyone together. This Easy Cheesy Baked Ravioli (Four Ingredients!) recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with family and friends. With just four simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s not only satisfying but also incredibly delicious. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to dive into an easy meal that feels gourmet!

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

This Easy Cheesy Baked Ravioli (Four Ingredients!) is bound to be a hit at any table. The combination of creamy, melted cheese and rich marinara sauce enveloping tender ravioli makes for an irresistible dish. It’s comforting, filling, and appeals to both kids and adults alike. Plus, its simplicity means you can whip it up in no time, leaving more moments for laughter and connection around the dinner table. Who wouldn’t want to dig into a bubbling dish of cheesy goodness?

What We’re Using

To make this Easy Cheesy Baked Ravioli (Four Ingredients!), you will need just a few ingredients:

24 ounces frozen cheese ravioli: Opt for your favorite brand; no need to thaw them beforehand!
2 cups marinara sauce: Choose a store-bought variety or homemade if you’re feeling adventurous.
2 cups mozzarella cheese: Shredded mozzarella provides that gooey, melty texture we all love.
1/2 cup parmesan cheese: Grated parmesan adds a deliciously sharp flavor that complements the mozzarella.
Fresh parsley (optional): For garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness.

Setup & Equipment

Before you start cooking, gather the following equipment:

9×13 inch baking dish: This size is perfect for holding all the ingredients.
Medium mixing bowl: For combining the marinara sauce and ravioli.
Measuring cups: To ensure you get the right amounts of each ingredient.
Spoon or spatula: For mixing and spreading the ingredients evenly.
Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking.

From Start to Finish: Easy Cheesy Baked Ravioli (Four Ingredients!)

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial for ensuring your ravioli bake evenly and come out perfectly golden and bubbly.

Step 2: Combine Ravioli and Marinara

In a medium mixing bowl, pour in your 2 cups of marinara sauce. Add the 24 ounces of frozen cheese ravioli and gently stir until the ravioli are coated with the sauce. No need to thaw the ravioli; they will cook perfectly in the oven.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients

Spread half of the ravioli mixture evenly in the bottom of your 9×13 inch baking dish. Next, sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top, followed by half of the parmesan cheese. This layer of cheese will create a deliciously gooey center.

Step 4: Add the Second Layer

Pour the remaining ravioli mixture over the cheese layer, ensuring it is distributed evenly. Top this layer with the rest of the mozzarella and parmesan cheese, creating a cheesy crust that will melt beautifully.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly golden. The aroma that fills your kitchen during this time will make it hard to wait!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the dish cool for a few minutes. For an extra touch, sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. This not only adds color but also a hint of freshness that complements the richness of the dish.

How to Make It Lighter

If you’re looking to lighten up this Easy Cheesy Baked Ravioli (Four Ingredients!), consider these tips:

Use whole wheat or spinach ravioli for added fiber and nutrients.
Opt for low-fat mozzarella and parmesan cheese to cut down on calories.
Incorporate vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms into the layers for added nutrition without many calories.
Consider using a marinara sauce that is lower in sugar and sodium.

Mistakes That Ruin Easy Cheesy Baked Ravioli (Four Ingredients!)

To ensure your Easy Cheesy Baked Ravioli (Four Ingredients!) turns out perfect every time, watch out for these common mistakes:

Not Preheating the Oven: Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking and proper melting of cheese.
Overcrowding the Dish: Avoid packing the ravioli too tightly; they need space to cook properly.
Using Too Much Sauce: While sauce is great, too much can lead to a soggy dish. Stick to the recommended amount.
Skipping the Resting Time: Letting the dish sit for a few minutes after baking allows it to set and makes serving easier.

Storing Tips & Timelines

If you have leftovers (which is rare, but can happen!), here are some tips for storing your Easy Cheesy Baked Ravioli (Four Ingredients!):

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the baked ravioli by placing it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.

Quick Q&A

Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh ravioli, but you may need to reduce the baking time since they cook faster than frozen ones.

What if I don’t have marinara sauce?

You can substitute marinara sauce with any tomato-based sauce like arrabbiata or even a simple tomato sauce mixed with Italian herbs.

Can I add meat to this dish?

Absolutely! Ground beef, sausage, or even shredded chicken can be added for extra protein and flavor. Just cook the meat beforehand and mix it in with the ravioli and sauce.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Easy Cheesy Baked Ravioli (Four Ingredients!) is perfect for meal prep. Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for easy meals throughout the week.

Serve & Enjoy

Now that you’ve crafted this delightful Easy Cheesy Baked Ravioli (Four Ingredients!), it’s time to dig in! Serve it hot, straight from the oven, alongside a fresh salad or some crusty bread to soak up the sauce. This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also brings warmth and happiness to your table. So gather your loved ones, share stories, and indulge in this cheesy masterpiece that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.

With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this Easy Cheesy Baked Ravioli (Four Ingredients!) will quickly become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Happy baking!