Let me tell you, weeknight dinners in our house can sometimes feel like a culinary tightrope walk. Between after-school activities, homework battles, and the general chaos of family life, finding time to cook something that’s both delicious and manageable often feels like a Herculean task. That’s why discovering this 3-Ingredient Baked Ravioli recipe was a game-changer. Honestly, it’s almost too good to be true. The first time I made it, I was skeptical. Could something this simple actually taste good? The answer, unequivocally, is yes! My kids, who are usually picky eaters when it comes to pasta dishes, devoured it. My husband, who appreciates a good hearty meal, was equally impressed. What I loved most was the sheer speed and ease of it all. From pantry to oven in minutes, with minimal cleanup – it’s a weeknight dinner miracle! The creamy, cheesy, saucy goodness of the baked ravioli is incredibly satisfying, and the minimal ingredient list means it’s budget-friendly too. If you’re looking for a foolproof, crowd-pleasing, and ridiculously easy meal, look no further. This 3-Ingredient Baked Ravioli is about to become your new weeknight hero.
Ingredients
This recipe is all about simplicity, and that starts with the ingredient list. You’ll only need three core components, making it incredibly convenient and perfect for those times when your pantry is looking a little bare or you just want a no-fuss meal. The beauty of this recipe also lies in its flexibility. While we’re focusing on the basic three, you can easily customize it to your liking with additions and variations, which we’ll explore later. But for now, let’s focus on the stars of the show – the three essential ingredients that make this baked ravioli magic happen:
- Frozen Ravioli (25-30 oz bag): The heart of this dish is, of course, the ravioli. Frozen ravioli is the key to the recipe’s speed and convenience. You can find a wide variety of frozen ravioli in your grocery store, from cheese-filled to meat-filled, spinach and ricotta, mushroom, and even lobster ravioli for a slightly more upscale version. The choice is yours! Opt for your family’s favorite filling or try something new each time to keep things interesting. For a classic and crowd-pleasing option, cheese ravioli is always a safe bet. For a richer flavor, consider meat ravioli. Vegetarian options like spinach and ricotta or mushroom ravioli are also fantastic and add a different dimension to the dish. When choosing your ravioli, pay attention to the size of the bag. A 25-30 ounce bag is usually perfect for feeding a family of four to six, depending on appetites. There’s no need to thaw the ravioli beforehand – they go straight from the freezer to the baking dish, making this recipe even easier. Using frozen ravioli also helps to keep the sauce and cheese from becoming overly watery during baking, as they release some moisture as they cook, contributing to the overall saucy texture.
- Pasta Sauce (24-28 oz jar): The sauce is the flavorful backbone of our baked ravioli, and it’s another area where you have plenty of flexibility. A good quality jarred pasta sauce is perfectly acceptable and incredibly convenient for this recipe. However, if you have a favorite homemade sauce, feel free to use that as well. When it comes to jarred sauces, the options are endless. Marinara sauce is a classic choice and provides a bright, tomatoey flavor. For a richer and more robust flavor, opt for a tomato basil sauce or a sauce with added vegetables like mushrooms or onions. If you prefer a creamier sauce, you could even experiment with a creamy tomato sauce or a vodka sauce, although these might slightly deviate from the traditional “3-ingredient” concept if they contain added cream or other ingredients beyond tomatoes, onions, and garlic. Look for a sauce that is relatively thick and flavorful. Avoid overly watery sauces, as they can make the baked ravioli too liquidy. Read the ingredient list and choose a sauce that you know you enjoy the taste of. Sometimes, even within the same brand, different varieties of pasta sauce can have surprisingly different flavor profiles. For those watching their sodium intake, there are also low-sodium pasta sauce options available. The size of the jar is also important. A 24-28 ounce jar is usually the standard size and provides the perfect amount of sauce to coat the ravioli generously without making it too soggy.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (8 oz bag): Cheese is the glorious, melty topping that brings everything together and adds that irresistible cheesy goodness that we all crave in a baked pasta dish. Shredded mozzarella cheese is the classic choice for baked ravioli, and for good reason. It melts beautifully, becoming gooey and stretchy, and has a mild, milky flavor that complements the ravioli and sauce perfectly without overpowering them. You can use pre-shredded mozzarella cheese for maximum convenience, or you can shred your own from a block of mozzarella. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose to prevent clumping, which can sometimes slightly affect its melting quality, but for a quick weeknight meal, it’s perfectly fine. If you prefer a richer, more flavorful cheese, you could substitute some or all of the mozzarella with other cheeses. Provolone cheese is another excellent melting cheese that would work well. For a sharper flavor, you could add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or Pecorino Romano cheese on top of the mozzarella. Monterey Jack cheese is another mild and melty option. You can even use a blend of cheeses for a more complex flavor profile. Consider using a mozzarella and provolone blend or a three-cheese blend that includes mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan. The amount of cheese is also adjustable to your preference. An 8-ounce bag of shredded mozzarella is usually a good starting point for a standard baking dish of ravioli. If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to add more! Just be sure not to overload it to the point where the cheese prevents the ravioli from baking properly.
These three ingredients – frozen ravioli, pasta sauce, and shredded mozzarella cheese – are the foundation of this incredibly easy and delicious baked ravioli recipe. With these simple components, you can create a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or any time you’re craving a quick and flavorful pasta dish.
Instructions
Making this 3-Ingredient Baked Ravioli is so straightforward, it practically cooks itself! The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and speed. There are no complicated steps, no fancy techniques, and minimal cleanup. From start to finish, you’ll be amazed at how quickly this delicious meal comes together. Follow these easy instructions and you’ll have a pan of cheesy, saucy baked ravioli ready to enjoy in no time:
- Preheat Your Oven to 375°F (190°C): The first and most crucial step in any baking recipe is preheating the oven. This ensures that the oven is at the correct temperature when you put the ravioli in, allowing it to cook evenly and properly. Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to fully preheat. Oven temperatures can vary slightly, so if you have an oven thermometer, it’s a good idea to use it to ensure accurate temperature. Preheating typically takes about 10-15 minutes, depending on your oven. Don’t skip this step, as baking in a cold oven can lead to uneven cooking and a less desirable final product. While the oven is preheating, you can move on to the next steps and get everything else ready.
- Prepare Your Baking Dish: Choose a baking dish that is appropriately sized for the amount of ravioli you are using. A 9×13 inch baking dish is usually a good size for a standard 25-30 ounce bag of frozen ravioli. You can also use a slightly smaller or larger dish, depending on your needs and preferences. Lightly grease the baking dish with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil. This will prevent the ravioli from sticking to the bottom of the dish and make cleanup easier later. You can also line the baking dish with parchment paper for even easier cleanup, although this is not strictly necessary. Greasing or lining the dish is a simple step, but it makes a big difference in preventing sticking and ensuring that your baked ravioli comes out of the dish easily once it’s cooked.
- Layer the Ingredients: Now comes the fun part – layering the ingredients! This is where the magic begins to happen. Start by spreading a thin layer of pasta sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This layer of sauce acts as a bed for the ravioli and prevents them from sticking directly to the bottom of the dish. Use about 1/2 to 1 cup of pasta sauce for this bottom layer, depending on the size of your dish and how saucy you like your baked ravioli. Next, arrange the frozen ravioli in a single layer over the sauce. There’s no need to thaw the ravioli beforehand – they go straight from the freezer into the baking dish. Try to distribute the ravioli evenly across the dish in a single layer. If you have a lot of ravioli, you may need to create slightly overlapping layers, but try to keep it as much of a single layer as possible to ensure even cooking. Once you have layered the ravioli, pour the remaining pasta sauce evenly over the top, making sure to coat all of the ravioli. Use a spoon or spatula to spread the sauce around and ensure that it reaches all the ravioli. Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top of the sauce. Distribute the cheese evenly so that every ravioli is covered with a blanket of cheesy goodness. Don’t be shy with the cheese – it’s what makes this baked ravioli so delicious and satisfying!
- Bake in the Preheated Oven: Carefully place the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown, and the ravioli are heated through. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the thickness of the ravioli layers. Start checking for doneness around 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is fully melted and starting to brown in spots, and when you insert a fork into a ravioli, it should feel heated through. If you want the cheese to be more browned, you can broil it for the last 1-2 minutes of baking, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning. Broiling can quickly brown the cheese, so watch it carefully and remove it from the oven as soon as it reaches your desired level of browning.
- Let it Rest and Serve: Once the baked ravioli is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes it easier to serve. Resting for 5-10 minutes is usually sufficient. Serve hot and enjoy! Baked ravioli is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a more complete meal. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, for a touch of freshness and visual appeal.
That’s all there is to it! With just these five simple steps, you can create a flavorful and satisfying 3-Ingredient Baked Ravioli that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual family gathering. The ease of preparation and minimal ingredients make this recipe a true winner for busy cooks and anyone who appreciates delicious comfort food without the fuss.
Nutrition Facts
Understanding the nutritional content of your meals is important for making informed dietary choices. While this 3-Ingredient Baked Ravioli is incredibly simple to make, it’s also helpful to know what you’re getting in terms of calories and macronutrients. Please remember that these are estimated values and can vary depending on the specific brands and types of ingredients you use. For the most accurate nutritional information, always refer to the product labels of your chosen ingredients.
Servings: This recipe typically serves 6-8 people, depending on portion sizes and appetites. For the nutritional information below, we will consider a serving size of approximately 1 cup of baked ravioli.
Calories Per Serving (Estimated): Approximately 350-450 calories per serving.
This calorie range is an estimate and can fluctuate based on factors such as:
- Type of Ravioli: Cheese ravioli tends to be slightly higher in calories and fat than vegetable-filled ravioli. Meat ravioli can also vary depending on the type of meat and fat content.
- Pasta Sauce: The calorie content of pasta sauce can vary significantly between brands and varieties. Creamier sauces or sauces with added oil will generally be higher in calories than basic marinara sauces. Check the nutrition label of your chosen pasta sauce for more precise calorie information.
- Mozzarella Cheese: The type of mozzarella cheese (part-skim vs. whole milk) will affect the calorie and fat content. Part-skim mozzarella will be lower in calories and fat than whole milk mozzarella. The amount of cheese you use will also impact the overall calorie count.
Approximate Macronutrient Breakdown Per Serving (Estimated):
- Protein: 15-20 grams
- Fat: 15-25 grams (This can vary significantly based on the type of cheese and sauce used)
- Carbohydrates: 35-45 grams
Other Nutrients (Estimated):
- Sodium: This can be relatively high, especially if using jarred pasta sauce and processed ravioli. Be mindful of sodium content if you are watching your intake. Choose low-sodium pasta sauce options if desired.
- Fiber: Moderate, depending on the type of ravioli and sauce. Whole wheat ravioli and sauces with vegetables will contribute more fiber.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Provides some vitamins and minerals, particularly from the tomato sauce (vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium) and cheese (calcium).
Tips for Making it Healthier:
- Choose Whole Wheat Ravioli: Opting for whole wheat ravioli will increase the fiber content and provide more complex carbohydrates.
- Use Low-Sodium Pasta Sauce: Select a low-sodium or no-salt-added pasta sauce to reduce sodium intake.
- Part-Skim Mozzarella: Using part-skim mozzarella cheese will lower the fat and calorie content compared to whole milk mozzarella.
- Add Vegetables: Sneak in extra vegetables by adding chopped vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach to the sauce or layering them in with the ravioli.
- Control Portion Sizes: Be mindful of portion sizes to manage calorie intake. A serving size of about 1 cup is a reasonable portion for this dish.
It’s important to remember that this 3-Ingredient Baked Ravioli is intended to be a convenient and comforting meal, not necessarily a health food. However, by making smart ingredient choices and being mindful of portion sizes, you can enjoy this dish as part of a balanced diet. Always consult with a registered dietitian or nutritionist for personalized dietary advice.
Preparation Time
One of the biggest appeals of this 3-Ingredient Baked Ravioli is its incredibly short preparation time. When you’re short on time and need to get dinner on the table quickly, this recipe is a lifesaver. Let’s break down the preparation time into active and inactive components:
Active Preparation Time: This refers to the time you actively spend working on the recipe, such as greasing the dish, layering the ingredients, and getting it ready for the oven.
- Estimated Active Prep Time: 5-10 minutes
This is truly all it takes! The steps are so simple and straightforward that you can have this dish assembled and ready to go into the oven in just minutes. There’s no chopping, sautéing, or complicated techniques involved. It’s simply layering the three ingredients and popping it in the oven.
Inactive Preparation Time (Baking Time): This refers to the time the dish spends baking in the oven, during which you don’t need to be actively involved.
- Estimated Inactive Prep Time (Baking Time): 30-40 minutes
While the ravioli is baking, you can relax, set the table, prepare a side salad, or take care of other tasks. The oven does most of the work!
Total Preparation Time (Active + Inactive):
- Total Estimated Preparation Time: 35-50 minutes
From start to finish, you can have a delicious and satisfying baked ravioli meal ready in under an hour. And the actual hands-on time is minimal, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Time-Saving Tips:
- Use Pre-Shredded Cheese: Using pre-shredded mozzarella cheese saves you the step of shredding your own cheese.
- Keep Ingredients on Hand: Stock your pantry with frozen ravioli, jarred pasta sauce, and shredded mozzarella cheese so you can whip up this dish anytime without a special trip to the grocery store.
- Prepare Ahead (Partial): While you can’t fully assemble it too far in advance (as the ravioli might get soggy), you could potentially grease the baking dish and have the ingredients ready to go in separate containers, which can shave off a minute or two of active prep time. However, the recipe is so fast as is, this is likely not necessary.
The minimal preparation time is a major advantage of this recipe. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights, last-minute dinners, or anytime you want a delicious and comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Its speed and simplicity are truly remarkable for such a flavorful and satisfying dish.
How to Serve
Baked Ravioli is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways, making it suitable for different occasions and preferences. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your 3-Ingredient Baked Ravioli experience:
Classic Serving Suggestions:
- Side Salad: A fresh and crisp side salad is the perfect accompaniment to baked ravioli. The lightness and acidity of a salad balance the richness of the pasta dish. Consider a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing, a Caesar salad, or an Italian-style salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives.
- Garlic Bread: Garlic bread is a classic pairing with pasta dishes, and it works wonderfully with baked ravioli. The warm, buttery, and garlicky bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from the dish. You can use store-bought garlic bread or make your own easily by brushing baguette slices with garlic butter and baking them.
- Steamed Vegetables: For a healthier side dish option, serve baked ravioli with steamed vegetables. Broccoli, green beans, asparagus, or carrots are all excellent choices. Steaming vegetables retains their nutrients and provides a nice contrast in texture and flavor to the rich ravioli.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables offer a deeper flavor profile than steamed vegetables and are another great side dish option. Roast vegetables like bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or eggplant alongside the ravioli, or roast them separately while the ravioli is baking.
Elevated Serving Ideas:
- Fresh Herbs Garnish: Garnish the baked ravioli with fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or oregano just before serving. The fresh herbs add a pop of color and aroma, enhancing the overall presentation and flavor of the dish. Chopped fresh basil is a classic and delicious choice for Italian dishes.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For those who like a little heat, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes over the baked ravioli before serving. This adds a subtle kick and depth of flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: Offer grated Parmesan cheese at the table for guests to sprinkle over their servings of baked ravioli. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty, and umami flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
- Balsamic Glaze: A drizzle of balsamic glaze over the baked ravioli adds a touch of sweetness and tanginess that elevates the flavors. The balsamic glaze also adds a visually appealing element to the dish.
- Wine Pairing: For a more sophisticated meal, pair your baked ravioli with a complementary wine. A light-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese, or a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc would pair well with this dish.
Serving Occasions:
- Weeknight Dinner: Baked ravioli is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. Its minimal prep time and crowd-pleasing flavor make it a go-to meal when you’re short on time.
- Casual Family Gatherings: This dish is ideal for casual family gatherings, potlucks, or picnics. It’s easy to transport and serve, and it’s always a hit with both kids and adults.
- Potlucks and Parties: Baked ravioli is a great dish to bring to potlucks and parties. It’s easy to make in large quantities, travels well, and is always a popular choice.
- Comfort Food Cravings: When you’re craving comforting and satisfying food, baked ravioli hits the spot. It’s warm, cheesy, saucy, and incredibly comforting.
No matter how you choose to serve it, 3-Ingredient Baked Ravioli is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its simplicity and deliciousness make it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in countless ways.
Additional Tips
While this 3-Ingredient Baked Ravioli recipe is incredibly straightforward, there are a few extra tips and tricks that can help you take it to the next level and ensure perfect results every time. Here are five additional tips to enhance your baked ravioli experience:
- Don’t Overbake: One of the most common mistakes when making baked pasta dishes is overbaking. Overbaking can lead to dry ravioli and cheese that is too browned and hardened. Keep a close eye on the baked ravioli while it’s in the oven and remove it as soon as the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown, and the ravioli are heated through. The baking time provided in the recipe is just an estimate, and your oven may cook slightly faster or slower. Start checking for doneness around 30 minutes and adjust the baking time accordingly. Slightly underbaked is better than overbaked in this case, as the ravioli will continue to cook slightly from the residual heat after you remove it from the oven. If you notice the cheese browning too quickly before the ravioli are heated through, you can loosely tent the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent further browning while allowing the ravioli to finish cooking.
- Enhance the Sauce: While jarred pasta sauce is perfectly convenient and delicious for this recipe, you can easily enhance its flavor with a few simple additions. Before layering the sauce in the baking dish, consider sautéing a clove or two of minced garlic in a tablespoon of olive oil until fragrant, and then stir in the pasta sauce. This adds a depth of flavor and aroma to the sauce. You can also add a pinch of dried oregano, basil, or Italian seasoning to the sauce for extra flavor. A splash of red wine or a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar can also add complexity to the sauce. Taste the sauce after adding any enhancements and adjust seasonings as needed. These simple additions can elevate the flavor of even a basic jarred pasta sauce and make your baked ravioli even more delicious.
- Vary the Cheese: Mozzarella cheese is the classic choice for baked ravioli, but don’t be afraid to experiment with other cheeses or cheese blends. Provolone cheese melts beautifully and adds a slightly sharper flavor. A blend of mozzarella and provolone is a popular combination. For a richer and more nutty flavor, consider adding some Gruyere or Fontina cheese. A sprinkle of Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese on top of the mozzarella adds a salty and umami punch. You can also use a pre-shredded Italian cheese blend for convenience and a variety of flavors. Experiment with different cheese combinations to find your favorite flavor profile for baked ravioli.
- Add Extra Layers and Ingredients: While the beauty of this recipe is its simplicity, you can easily add extra layers and ingredients to customize it and make it even more substantial. Consider adding a layer of cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded chicken between the ravioli and sauce layers for a heartier meal. You can also add vegetables like sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the layers. Sauté the vegetables beforehand until softened before layering them in the baking dish. Adding extra layers and ingredients can transform this simple 3-ingredient recipe into a more complex and customized dish that suits your taste and dietary preferences.
- Leftovers and Reheating: Baked ravioli is often even more flavorful the next day, making it great for leftovers. Store leftover baked ravioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions for a quick and easy lunch or dinner. For larger portions or to maintain a better texture, reheat in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat the baked ravioli in an oven-safe dish for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You may need to add a splash of water or extra sauce to the dish before reheating to prevent it from drying out. Reheating in the oven will help to maintain the cheesy and saucy texture of the baked ravioli.
By keeping these additional tips in mind, you can take your 3-Ingredient Baked Ravioli from simple to spectacular and ensure delicious results every time you make it. These tips offer opportunities for customization, flavor enhancement, and perfect execution of this easy and satisfying recipe.
FAQ Section
Got questions about 3-Ingredient Baked Ravioli? You’re not alone! This simple recipe often sparks curiosity, and we’re here to answer some of the most frequently asked questions to ensure your baked ravioli experience is smooth and successful.
Q1: Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
A: While frozen ravioli is recommended for its convenience and the way it cooks in this recipe, you can use fresh ravioli if you prefer. However, you will need to adjust the baking time significantly. Fresh ravioli cooks much faster than frozen ravioli. If using fresh ravioli, reduce the baking time to approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the ravioli are heated through. Keep a close eye on it to prevent overcooking, as fresh ravioli can become mushy if overbaked. Frozen ravioli is generally preferred for this recipe as it holds its shape better during baking and helps to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.
Q2: Can I use a different type of sauce besides marinara?
A: Absolutely! The beauty of this recipe is its versatility, and you can definitely use different types of pasta sauce. Marinara sauce is a classic and widely available choice, but you can experiment with other sauces to change the flavor profile. Pesto sauce would add a vibrant and herby flavor. Alfredo sauce would create a richer and creamier baked ravioli. Vodka sauce offers a creamy tomato flavor with a hint of tang. Even a simple garlic and herb sauce would be delicious. Consider your family’s preferences and feel free to try different sauces to find your favorite variations. Just ensure the sauce is thick enough to coat the ravioli nicely without being too watery.
Q3: Can I make this recipe vegetarian/vegan?
A: Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian. Simply ensure you are using vegetarian ravioli, such as cheese ravioli, spinach and ricotta ravioli, or mushroom ravioli. Most jarred pasta sauces are vegetarian, but always double-check the ingredient list to be sure. To make it vegan, you will need to make substitutions for both the ravioli and the cheese. Look for vegan ravioli options, which are becoming increasingly available in grocery stores. You can also use vegan shredded mozzarella cheese alternatives. There are several brands of vegan mozzarella cheese available that melt reasonably well. The flavor and texture may be slightly different from traditional mozzarella, but they will provide a vegan-friendly cheesy topping for your baked ravioli.
Q4: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: You can partially prepare this dish ahead of time, but it’s best to bake it just before serving for optimal texture. You can assemble the baked ravioli in the baking dish (layering the sauce, ravioli, and cheese) and store it, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 4-6 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the refrigerator and bake as directed in the recipe, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s very cold from the fridge. However, it’s not recommended to assemble it too far in advance (like overnight), as the ravioli may start to absorb too much moisture from the sauce and become soggy. For best results, assemble and bake within a few hours of serving.
Q5: Can I add meat to this recipe?
A: Yes, adding meat is a great way to make this baked ravioli even heartier and more substantial. Cooked ground beef, Italian sausage (removed from casings and browned), or shredded cooked chicken are all excellent additions. You can layer the cooked meat between the ravioli and sauce layers. For example, after layering the ravioli and before adding the remaining sauce, sprinkle a layer of cooked and seasoned ground beef over the ravioli. Then, pour the remaining sauce and top with cheese as directed in the recipe. Adding meat turns this simple 3-ingredient recipe into a more complete and protein-rich meal. Ensure the meat is fully cooked before adding it to the baking dish.
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3-Ingredient Baked Ravioli Recipe
Ingredients
- Frozen Ravioli (25-30 oz bag): The heart of this dish is, of course, the ravioli. Frozen ravioli is the key to the recipe’s speed and convenience. You can find a wide variety of frozen ravioli in your grocery store, from cheese-filled to meat-filled, spinach and ricotta, mushroom, and even lobster ravioli for a slightly more upscale version. The choice is yours! Opt for your family’s favorite filling or try something new each time to keep things interesting. For a classic and crowd-pleasing option, cheese ravioli is always a safe bet. For a richer flavor, consider meat ravioli. Vegetarian options like spinach and ricotta or mushroom ravioli are also fantastic and add a different dimension to the dish. When choosing your ravioli, pay attention to the size of the bag. A 25-30 ounce bag is usually perfect for feeding a family of four to six, depending on appetites. There’s no need to thaw the ravioli beforehand – they go straight from the freezer to the baking dish, making this recipe even easier. Using frozen ravioli also helps to keep the sauce and cheese from becoming overly watery during baking, as they release some moisture as they cook, contributing to the overall saucy texture.
- Pasta Sauce (24-28 oz jar): The sauce is the flavorful backbone of our baked ravioli, and it’s another area where you have plenty of flexibility. A good quality jarred pasta sauce is perfectly acceptable and incredibly convenient for this recipe. However, if you have a favorite homemade sauce, feel free to use that as well. When it comes to jarred sauces, the options are endless. Marinara sauce is a classic choice and provides a bright, tomatoey flavor. For a richer and more robust flavor, opt for a tomato basil sauce or a sauce with added vegetables like mushrooms or onions. If you prefer a creamier sauce, you could even experiment with a creamy tomato sauce or a vodka sauce, although these might slightly deviate from the traditional “3-ingredient” concept if they contain added cream or other ingredients beyond tomatoes, onions, and garlic. Look for a sauce that is relatively thick and flavorful. Avoid overly watery sauces, as they can make the baked ravioli too liquidy. Read the ingredient list and choose a sauce that you know you enjoy the taste of. Sometimes, even within the same brand, different varieties of pasta sauce can have surprisingly different flavor profiles. For those watching their sodium intake, there are also low-sodium pasta sauce options available. The size of the jar is also important. A 24-28 ounce jar is usually the standard size and provides the perfect amount of sauce to coat the ravioli generously without making it too soggy.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (8 oz bag): Cheese is the glorious, melty topping that brings everything together and adds that irresistible cheesy goodness that we all crave in a baked pasta dish. Shredded mozzarella cheese is the classic choice for baked ravioli, and for good reason. It melts beautifully, becoming gooey and stretchy, and has a mild, milky flavor that complements the ravioli and sauce perfectly without overpowering them. You can use pre-shredded mozzarella cheese for maximum convenience, or you can shred your own from a block of mozzarella. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose to prevent clumping, which can sometimes slightly affect its melting quality, but for a quick weeknight meal, it’s perfectly fine. If you prefer a richer, more flavorful cheese, you could substitute some or all of the mozzarella with other cheeses. Provolone cheese is another excellent melting cheese that would work well. For a sharper flavor, you could add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or Pecorino Romano cheese on top of the mozzarella. Monterey Jack cheese is another mild and melty option. You can even use a blend of cheeses for a more complex flavor profile. Consider using a mozzarella and provolone blend or a three-cheese blend that includes mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan. The amount of cheese is also adjustable to your preference. An 8-ounce bag of shredded mozzarella is usually a good starting point for a standard baking dish of ravioli. If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to add more! Just be sure not to overload it to the point where the cheese prevents the ravioli from baking properly.
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven to 375°F (190°C): The first and most crucial step in any baking recipe is preheating the oven. This ensures that the oven is at the correct temperature when you put the ravioli in, allowing it to cook evenly and properly. Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to fully preheat. Oven temperatures can vary slightly, so if you have an oven thermometer, it’s a good idea to use it to ensure accurate temperature. Preheating typically takes about 10-15 minutes, depending on your oven. Don’t skip this step, as baking in a cold oven can lead to uneven cooking and a less desirable final product. While the oven is preheating, you can move on to the next steps and get everything else ready.
- Prepare Your Baking Dish: Choose a baking dish that is appropriately sized for the amount of ravioli you are using. A 9×13 inch baking dish is usually a good size for a standard 25-30 ounce bag of frozen ravioli. You can also use a slightly smaller or larger dish, depending on your needs and preferences. Lightly grease the baking dish with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil. This will prevent the ravioli from sticking to the bottom of the dish and make cleanup easier later. You can also line the baking dish with parchment paper for even easier cleanup, although this is not strictly necessary. Greasing or lining the dish is a simple step, but it makes a big difference in preventing sticking and ensuring that your baked ravioli comes out of the dish easily once it’s cooked.
- Layer the Ingredients: Now comes the fun part – layering the ingredients! This is where the magic begins to happen. Start by spreading a thin layer of pasta sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This layer of sauce acts as a bed for the ravioli and prevents them from sticking directly to the bottom of the dish. Use about 1/2 to 1 cup of pasta sauce for this bottom layer, depending on the size of your dish and how saucy you like your baked ravioli. Next, arrange the frozen ravioli in a single layer over the sauce. There’s no need to thaw the ravioli beforehand – they go straight from the freezer into the baking dish. Try to distribute the ravioli evenly across the dish in a single layer. If you have a lot of ravioli, you may need to create slightly overlapping layers, but try to keep it as much of a single layer as possible to ensure even cooking. Once you have layered the ravioli, pour the remaining pasta sauce evenly over the top, making sure to coat all of the ravioli. Use a spoon or spatula to spread the sauce around and ensure that it reaches all the ravioli. Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top of the sauce. Distribute the cheese evenly so that every ravioli is covered with a blanket of cheesy goodness. Don’t be shy with the cheese – it’s what makes this baked ravioli so delicious and satisfying!
- Bake in the Preheated Oven: Carefully place the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown, and the ravioli are heated through. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the thickness of the ravioli layers. Start checking for doneness around 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is fully melted and starting to brown in spots, and when you insert a fork into a ravioli, it should feel heated through. If you want the cheese to be more browned, you can broil it for the last 1-2 minutes of baking, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning. Broiling can quickly brown the cheese, so watch it carefully and remove it from the oven as soon as it reaches your desired level of browning.
- Let it Rest and Serve: Once the baked ravioli is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes it easier to serve. Resting for 5-10 minutes is usually sufficient. Serve hot and enjoy! Baked ravioli is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a more complete meal. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, for a touch of freshness and visual appeal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: One Normal Portion
- Calories: 350-450
- Fat: 15-25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 35-45 grams
- Protein: 15-20 grams