Name: Easy Cheesy Baked Ravioli (Four Ingredients!)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 24 ounces frozen cheese ravioli (choose your favorite brand); 2 cups marinara sauce (good-quality, homemade or store-bought); 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (whole-milk recommended); 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (freshly grated, optional but recommended); fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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If you’re craving comfort food that’s effortless, satisfying, and packed with cheesy goodness, look no further than this Easy Cheesy Baked Ravioli (Four Ingredients!). This recipe takes frozen cheese ravioli and transforms it into a bubbling casserole layered with marinara and melty mozzarella, topped off with a sprinkle of parmesan and fresh parsley. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner that feels indulgent without any fuss. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who loves quick meals, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, with just four main ingredients, it’s a fantastic choice for those pantry-friendly nights when simplicity is key.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This Easy Cheesy Baked Ravioli (Four Ingredients!) recipe will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly straightforward—no complicated sauces or long prep times. Frozen cheese ravioli cuts down on the effort, and layering it with marinara and cheese means you get all the flavor with minimal steps. It bakes up golden and bubbly, offering that irresistible combination of crispy cheese edges and soft, tender pasta inside.

Moreover, it’s incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite marinara or swap in your preferred cheeses. The leftovers reheat beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep or next-day lunches. And if you love dishes like the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Bake or crave casseroles like the Baked Three Cheese Chicken Ziti, this recipe will sit right alongside them as a go-to comfort classic.

Your Shopping Guide

24 ounces frozen cheese ravioli: Choose your favorite brand of frozen cheese ravioli. Look for quality ricotta or a blend of cheeses inside for the best flavor.
2 cups marinara sauce: A good-quality marinara makes a huge difference here. You can opt for homemade or store-bought—just pick a sauce that’s rich and flavorful.
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Use whole-milk mozzarella for a creamier texture and better melt. Pre-shredded works fine, but freshly shredded will melt nicer.
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: Freshly grated parmesan adds the perfect salty, nutty finishing touch. It’s optional but highly recommended.
Fresh parsley (optional): For garnish, fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens the dish.

Hardware & Gadgets

Baking dish: A 9×13 inch casserole dish works perfectly to layer and bake the ravioli.
Mixing spoon: To evenly spread the sauce and cheese layers.
Measuring cups: For accurately measuring sauce and cheese.
Oven mitts: Safety first when handling hot dishes!
Cheese grater: If you’re grating fresh parmesan or mozzarella yourself.

Cooking Easy Cheesy Baked Ravioli (Four Ingredients!): The Process

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Layer the Sauce

Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This base layer will prevent the ravioli from sticking and add moisture.

Step 3: Add the Frozen Ravioli

Place the frozen cheese ravioli in a single layer over the sauce. There’s no need to thaw them first—this recipe is designed for convenience.

Step 4: More Sauce and Cheese

Pour the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce over the ravioli, spreading it evenly. Then sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese on top, covering the ravioli completely.

Step 5: Sprinkle Parmesan

Finish with a generous 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese. This will form a golden, crispy topping as it bakes.

Step 6: Bake and Bubble

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired, slice, and serve hot.

Seasonal Ingredient Swaps

Spring: Add fresh spinach or asparagus tips between the layers for a seasonal veggie boost.
Summer: Swap marinara for a fresh tomato basil sauce or add sliced zucchini for extra freshness.
Fall: Stir roasted butternut squash into the marinara for a subtly sweet twist.
Winter: Add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for a cozy, earthy flavor.

Testing Timeline

Tested cooking times to ensure ravioli is perfectly tender but not mushy.
Experimented with cheese ratios for optimal melt and flavor balance.
Confirmed that layering sauce under and over ravioli keeps it moist and flavorful.
Tested baking covered then uncovered to achieve a golden top without drying out the pasta.

Prep Ahead & Store

You can assemble this casserole up to a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge. Leftovers store well in the fridge for 3-4 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave. For longer storage, freeze the baked dish in an airtight container for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

Quick Q&A

Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh ravioli will cook faster, so reduce the baking time by about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on the cheese topping to avoid burning.

What if I don’t have parmesan cheese?

You can substitute with pecorino Romano or skip it altogether. The dish will still be delicious with just mozzarella and marinara.

Can I add meat to this recipe?

Yes! Cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken can be layered in with the ravioli for a heartier meal. For a quick upgrade, try the flavors in the Chicken Alfredo Baked Shells recipe for inspiration.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes well before or after baking. Just wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap for best results. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

More Recipes You’ll Love

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Bake – A flavorful twist on baked pasta with tender chicken and creamy cheese.
Chicken Alfredo Baked Shells – Creamy alfredo sauce and pasta shells make for a rich, comforting dish.
Baked Three Cheese Chicken Ziti – A cheesy, savory casserole perfect for hearty appetites.

Make It Tonight

With just four ingredients and minimal prep, this Easy Cheesy Baked Ravioli (Four Ingredients!) is ready to bring warmth and cheesy delight to your table in under an hour. It’s a perfect recipe to whip up when you want something cozy but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Pair it with a simple green salad or some garlic bread, and you have an effortless meal that everyone will love. So preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy one of the easiest, cheesiest baked pasta dishes you’ve ever made!

This dish strikes the perfect balance between convenience and comfort, making it a must-try for any pasta lover. Not only does it satisfy your cravings, but it also pairs beautifully with other baked pasta favorites. Whether you’re exploring more casseroles like the Baked Three Cheese Chicken Ziti or experimenting with stuffed pasta like the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Bake, this baked ravioli will quickly become a recipe you return to again and again.

Enjoy every cheesy, saucy bite!

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