Easy ravioli lasagna is the ultimate weeknight dinner cheat code. I swap out traditional noodles for frozen ravioli to skip the boiling step entirely. Standing in front of the fridge after a long day used to stress me out.
Now, I keep a bag of frozen ravioli handy for nights when the family wants a hearty meal fast. This baked dish gives you all the cheesy comfort of classic lasagna with half the effort and gets done in just 45 minutes.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Easy Cheesy Ravioli Lasagna
I always lean on simple pantry staples for this family favorite. In my experience, using high-quality cheese makes all the difference in the final bake.
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 jar marinara sauce – My go-to brand has simple, recognizable ingredients
- 1 (14-oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 20-25 ounces ravioli, fresh or frozen – I recommend keeping a bag in your freezer at all times
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese – Pro tip: whole milk ricotta gives the best creamy texture
- 2-3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – I usually grate my own from a block for better melting
- Fresh basil, to garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
I recommend prepping your sauce first to build deep flavor before layering.
Step 1: Cook and crumble the Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium heat until fully browned. Drain well to prevent a greasy bake.
Step 2: Stir the marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, and Italian seasoning into the cooked sausage. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
Step 3: Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Layer half the frozen ravioli in a single layer. Dollop half the ricotta over the top, then add half the remaining sauce and one cup of mozzarella.
Step 5: Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
What to Serve with Easy Cheesy Ravioli Lasagna
Balancing this rich dish with lighter sides creates the perfect family meal.
Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice: Fluffy seasoned rice adds a neutral base that soaks up the extra tomato sauce beautifully.
Green Bean Casserole: A classic vegetable side that brings a crunchy texture contrast to the soft baked pasta.
Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta: If you want to lean into Italian flavors, these crispy gnocchi make a fun appetizer or side dish.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup: A warm cup of soup on the side is incredibly comforting on a chilly weeknight alongside this bake.
Garlic Herb Chicken Carrot Plate: Roasted carrots add a sweet and savory element that pairs naturally with the Italian sausage.
Storage & Serving Tips
Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. It also freezes beautifully wrapped tightly in foil for up to three months.
I recommend reheating individual portions in the microwave. For the whole pan, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.
This dish is incredibly versatile for busy schedules. You can assemble it the night before and just pop it in the oven when you get home from work.
Conclusion
This easy ravioli lasagna takes the stress out of busy weeknights. You get all the comforting flavors of a classic homemade dinner with almost no prep work. Grab a bag of frozen ravioli tonight and watch your family ask for seconds.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of Italian sausage?
Yes, ground beef works perfectly as a substitute if you prefer a milder flavor.
Do I need to thaw the frozen ravioli first?
No, you can layer the frozen ravioli right into the dish. It will bake perfectly in the sauce.
Can I make this easy ravioli lasagna ahead of time?
You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it tightly, and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
Conclusion
This easy ravioli lasagna takes the stress out of busy weeknights. You get all the comforting flavors of a classic homemade dinner with almost no prep work. Grab a bag of frozen ravioli tonight and watch your family ask for seconds.
Easy Cheesy Ravioli Lasagna
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook and crumble the Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium heat until fully browned. Drain well.
- Stir the marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, and Italian seasoning into the cooked sausage. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom.
- Layer half the frozen ravioli in a single layer. Dollop half the ricotta over the top, then add half the remaining sauce and one cup of mozzarella.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes until golden and bubbly. Garnish with fresh basil.
