Transform your weeknight dinners with this quick and easy ravioli lasagna. Combining layers of frozen cheese ravioli, Italian sausage, and marinara sauce, this dish delivers immense flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for busy families or anyone craving a comforting, delicious meal.
Photos of Easy Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
While most ingredients for this recipe are common pantry staples, you may need to pick up roasted red peppers and frozen cheese ravioli. These items can usually be found in the condiment and frozen food sections of your supermarket, respectively.
Ingredients For Easy Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
ground italian sausage: Adds a savory, spiced flavor and hearty texture to the lasagna
roasted red peppers: Provide a smoky sweetness that complements the sausage
marinara pasta sauce: Offers a rich and tangy tomato base for the layers
frozen cheese ravioli: Acts as the pasta and cheese layers in one, simplifying the recipe
mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create a gooey, cheesy top
parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that enhances the overall dish
fresh basil leaves: Provide a burst of fresh, aromatic flavor as a garnish
One reader, Ciel Barela says:
This easy ravioli lasagna recipe is a game-changer! The layers of cheesy ravioli, savory sausage, and rich marinara sauce come together perfectly. It's simple to make and absolutely delicious. My family loved it, and it's now a regular in our dinner rotation. Highly recommend!
Techniques Required for Making Ravioli Lasagna
How to cook sausage: Cook sausage over medium heat until browned and no longer pink, stirring and breaking up the sausage with a metal spatula or spoon while it cooks. How to drain grease: Drain off the excess grease from the cooked sausage before adding other ingredients. How to assemble lasagna: Layer the ingredients in a specific order in the baking dish, starting with marinara sauce, followed by ravioli, sausage mixture, and cheeses. How to bake lasagna: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake at 400 degrees F for 35 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbly.
How To Make Easy Ravioli Lasagna
This lasagna recipe is perfect this back-to-school season with its ravioli pasta, meaty filling smothered in marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese topping.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lbground Italian sausage
- 12ozroasted red peppersdrained and diced
- 28ozmarinara pasta sauce
- 30ozfrozen cheese ravioli
- 8ozmozzarella cheese
- ½cupParmesan cheese
- ½cupfresh basil leaveschopped or julienned, optional
Instructions
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Heat oven to 400 degrees F. Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with cooking spray, and set aside.
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In a large saute pan, cook sausage over medium heat until browned and no longer pink, stirring and breaking up the sausage with a metal spatula or spoon while it cooks.
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Drain off the excess grease, then stir the diced roasted red peppers in with the sausage. Set aside.
To assemble the lasagna:
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Spread half of a jar of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. Spread the contents of 1 package of ravioli in an even layer on top of the sauce.
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Spread half of the sausage and red pepper mixture evenly on top of the ravioli, followed by the remaining half of a jar of marinara sauce, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Repeat each of these layers, minus the Parmesan.
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Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes. Uncover and bake for a final 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbly. Remove, and garnish with the remaining Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired.
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Serve warm.
Nutrition
- Calories: 473.34kcal
- Fat: 24.27g
- Saturated Fat: 10.89g
- Trans Fat: 0.00g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 8.93g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.40g
- Carbohydrates: 41.13g
- Fiber: 2.89g
- Sugar: 5.80g
- Protein: 22.48g
- Cholesterol: 80.85mg
- Sodium: 1061.28mg
- Calcium: 318.75mg
- Potassium: 439.61mg
- Iron: 2.28mg
- Vitamin A: 143.13µg
- Vitamin C: 50.74mg
Helpful Technique for Making Ravioli Lasagna
When browning the ground italian sausage, make sure to break it into small, even pieces using a metal spatula or spoon. This ensures that the sausage cooks evenly and integrates better with the roasted red peppers and marinara sauce. Additionally, draining off the excess grease will prevent the lasagna from becoming too oily, allowing the flavors of the cheese ravioli and mozzarella cheese to shine through.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe
Use pre-cooked sausage: Save time by using pre-cooked Italian sausage instead of cooking it from scratch.
Opt for jarred roasted peppers: Purchase jarred roasted red peppers to avoid the time-consuming process of roasting and peeling them yourself.
Pre-shredded cheese: Use pre-shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese to cut down on prep time.
Layer efficiently: Assemble the ravioli lasagna directly in the baking dish to save on cleanup time.
Batch cook: Double the recipe and freeze one lasagna for a quick meal later.
Substitute Ingredients For Easy Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
ground italian sausage - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can be seasoned with Italian herbs to mimic the flavor of Italian sausage.
ground italian sausage - Substitute with ground beef: Ground beef provides a similar texture and can be seasoned to taste like Italian sausage.
roasted red peppers - Substitute with sun-dried tomatoes: Sun-dried tomatoes offer a similar sweetness and depth of flavor.
roasted red peppers - Substitute with fresh bell peppers: Fresh bell peppers can be roasted at home to achieve a similar taste and texture.
marinara pasta sauce - Substitute with tomato basil sauce: Tomato basil sauce provides a similar tomato base with added basil flavor.
marinara pasta sauce - Substitute with pesto sauce: Pesto sauce offers a different but complementary flavor profile with basil and garlic.
frozen cheese ravioli - Substitute with fresh cheese tortellini: Fresh cheese tortellini offers a similar cheesy filling and pasta texture.
frozen cheese ravioli - Substitute with frozen spinach ravioli: Frozen spinach ravioli adds a bit of green and a slightly different flavor while maintaining the ravioli texture.
mozzarella cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone cheese melts well and offers a similar mild flavor.
mozzarella cheese - Substitute with fontina cheese: Fontina cheese melts smoothly and has a rich, creamy texture.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar hard texture and a slightly saltier, tangier flavor.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with asiago cheese: Asiago cheese offers a similar grating texture and a nutty flavor.
fresh basil leaves - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley provides a bright, fresh flavor that complements Italian dishes.
fresh basil leaves - Substitute with dried basil: Dried basil can be used in smaller quantities to provide a similar flavor.
How to Beautifully Present This Ravioli Lasagna
Serve smaller portion sizes: Create individual portions of the ravioli lasagna using small, elegant ramekins. This allows for a refined presentation and ensures each guest receives a perfectly layered serving.
Use decoration: Garnish each portion with a delicate chiffonade of fresh basil leaves and a light sprinkle of parmesan cheese. Add a small drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil for a touch of shine and flavor.
Layer with precision: Ensure each layer of ravioli, sausage, and marinara sauce is evenly distributed. Use a piping bag for the marinara sauce to achieve clean, precise layers.
Highlight textures: Create a contrast by adding a crispy element on top. Sprinkle a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese over the final layer of mozzarella before baking. This will add a delightful crunch to each bite.
Use high-quality ingredients: Opt for artisanal cheese ravioli and freshly made marinara sauce. The quality of the ingredients will elevate the overall taste and presentation.
Plate with elegance: Serve the ravioli lasagna on a pristine white plate to make the colors pop. Use a ring mold to shape the lasagna into a perfect circle for a sophisticated look.
Add a fresh element: Accompany the dish with a small side salad of arugula lightly dressed with lemon vinaigrette. This adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the lasagna.
Finish with finesse: Just before serving, add a few microgreens on top for a touch of elegance and a pop of color. A light dusting of freshly ground black pepper will enhance the aroma and presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Ravioli Lasagna
Oven: Used to bake the lasagna at 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
9 x 13-inch baking pan: The dish where the lasagna will be assembled and baked.
Cooking spray: Used to grease the baking pan to prevent sticking.
Large sauté pan: For cooking the Italian sausage and mixing it with the roasted red peppers.
Metal spatula or spoon: To stir and break up the sausage while it cooks.
Aluminum foil: Used to cover the dish while baking to ensure even cooking.
Measuring cups: To measure the parmesan cheese and other ingredients accurately.
Knife: For dicing the roasted red peppers if they are not pre-diced.
Cutting board: A surface to safely dice the roasted red peppers.
Serving spoon: To serve the lasagna once it is cooked.
Tongs: Optional, but useful for handling the ravioli and layering ingredients.
Mixing bowl: Optional, for mixing the sausage and roasted red peppers before layering.
Storing and Freezing Ravioli Lasagna
- Allow the lasagna to cool completely before storing or freezing.
- To store in the refrigerator, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- For freezing, you have two options:
- Freeze the entire lasagna: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and then a layer of aluminum foil. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
- Freeze individual portions: Cut the cooled lasagna into single-serving portions and wrap each tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe container or bag, label with the date, and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, unwrap the desired number of portions and place them in a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake in a 350°F oven until heated through.
- If you have any remaining fresh basil, you can store it in the refrigerator for a few days. Place the stems in a jar of water and cover the leaves with a plastic bag. Alternatively, you can freeze the basil by pureeing it with a little olive oil and freezing it in an ice cube tray for future use in sauces or soups.
How To Reheat Ravioli Lasagna Leftovers
To reheat leftover easy ravioli lasagna in the oven, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until it's heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of reheating to allow the cheese to melt and become slightly crispy on top.
If you prefer to use the microwave, place a single serving of the lasagna on a microwave-safe plate. Cover the plate with a damp paper towel to prevent the pasta from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the lasagna is heated through. Cooking times may vary depending on your microwave's wattage and the size of your serving.
For a crispy top layer, you can also reheat the ravioli lasagna in an air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place a piece of the lasagna in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the lasagna is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
If you have a large portion of leftover lasagna, you can reheat it in a covered skillet on the stovetop. Place the lasagna in the skillet and add a few tablespoons of water or marinara sauce to help keep it moist. Cover the skillet and heat over medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes, or until the lasagna is heated through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
Interesting Fact About Ravioli Lasagna
A fun fact about this easy ravioli lasagna recipe is that using frozen cheese ravioli instead of traditional lasagna noodles significantly reduces the preparation time, making it a convenient and quick option for busy weeknights.
Is Making Ravioli Lasagna at Home Cost-Effective?
When evaluating the cost-effectiveness of this ravioli lasagna recipe, it scores a solid 8 out of 10. The use of frozen cheese ravioli and marinara sauce keeps the costs manageable, while ground Italian sausage and mozzarella cheese add rich flavors without breaking the bank. Fresh basil leaves and roasted red peppers elevate the dish without significant expense. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $20-$25 USD, making it a budget-friendly yet delicious option for family dinners.
Is This Ravioli Lasagna Healthy or Unhealthy?
The easy ravioli lasagna recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:
- High in saturated fat and calories from the Italian sausage and cheeses
- Processed ingredients like frozen ravioli and marinara sauce may contain added sugars, sodium, and preservatives
- Lacks a significant amount of vegetables, which are essential for a balanced meal
However, with a few tweaks, this recipe can be transformed into a healthier option without compromising on taste:
- Opt for lean ground turkey or chicken instead of Italian sausage to reduce saturated fat and calories
- Increase the amount of roasted red peppers and add other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to boost the nutrient content
- Choose whole-wheat or vegetable-based ravioli for added fiber and nutrients
- Make your own marinara sauce using fresh tomatoes, herbs, and spices to control the amount of sugar and sodium
- Use reduced-fat mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses to cut down on saturated fat without sacrificing the cheesy goodness
- Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables to round out the meal with even more vitamins and minerals
By incorporating these changes, you can enjoy a healthier version of this comforting lasagna that still satisfies your cravings for a hearty, flavorful dish.
Editor's Opinion on This Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
This easy ravioli lasagna recipe is a brilliant fusion of convenience and flavor. Using frozen cheese ravioli as a substitute for traditional lasagna noodles cuts down on prep time without sacrificing taste. The combination of Italian sausage, roasted red peppers, and marinara sauce creates a rich, hearty filling, while the layers of mozzarella and parmesan add a delightful cheesy goodness. The fresh basil at the end provides a burst of freshness that elevates the dish. It's a perfect weeknight meal that feels indulgent yet straightforward to prepare.
Enhance Your Easy Ravioli Lasagna Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Easy Ravioli Lasagna Recipe:
This easy ravioli lasagna recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights. Using frozen cheese ravioli simplifies the process, eliminating the need to boil noodles. The combination of ground Italian sausage and roasted red peppers adds a burst of flavor, while marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese create a comforting, gooey texture. Topped with fresh basil leaves and parmesan cheese, this dish is both delicious and visually appealing. Trust this recipe for its simplicity, rich flavors, and the convenience of using readily available ingredients.
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