Creamy Spinach Ricotta Ravioli Bake

$- 12 oz cheese-filled ravioli (fresh or frozen) - 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped - 1 cup ricotta cheese - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 cup marinara sauce To make this dish, start with cheese-filled ravioli, which you can find fresh or frozen. The ravioli gives the bake its tasty base. Fresh spinach adds a healthy touch and bright color. Ricotta cheese offers creaminess, while mozzarella brings that gooey melt. Don't forget the Parmesan for a salty kick. Marinara sauce ties everything together, adding a rich tomato flavor. - 1/2 tsp garlic powder - 1/2 tsp onion powder - 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) - Salt and pepper to taste - Olive oil for drizzling - Fresh basil leaves for garnish Seasonings are key to making this dish shine. Garlic powder and onion powder add depth. A pinch of red pepper flakes can spice things up, but it's optional. Always taste and adjust with salt and pepper. A drizzle of olive oil before baking adds a nice finish. Finally, fresh basil leaves on top brighten the dish and give a pop of flavor. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, set your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, cook your ravioli. If you're using fresh ravioli, follow the package guide. For frozen ravioli, boil them for about 3-4 minutes. They should be soft but not mushy. Drain the ravioli and set them aside. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of chopped spinach and 1 cup of ricotta cheese. Add 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. If you like heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. Mix everything well. You want a creamy filling that is packed with flavor. Grab a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Start by spreading a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place half of your cooked ravioli over the sauce. Next, spread half of the spinach filling on top. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over this layer. Repeat with the rest of the ravioli, spinach filling, marinara sauce, and top with the remaining cheese. If you love spice, add more red pepper flakes here. Drizzle a bit of olive oil on top of the dish. Cover it tightly with aluminum foil. Place it in the oven and bake for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil. Bake for another 10-15 minutes. You want the cheese to be bubbly and golden brown. That’s when you know it’s ready! - Perfectly cook the ravioli: Boil fresh ravioli for about 3-4 minutes until they soften. If you use frozen, follow the package instructions. This keeps them tender and ready for baking. - Achieving a golden cheese topping: Bake covered for 20 minutes, then uncover for 10-15 more. This helps the cheese get bubbly and golden brown, making each bite more delicious. - Adding extra spices or herbs: Try adding Italian seasoning or fresh garlic. These will enhance the taste and give your dish extra depth. - Pairing with side dishes: A fresh side salad or garlic bread works great with this dish. They add crunch and balance the creamy ravioli. - Alternatives for ricotta and marinara: You can swap ricotta for cottage cheese or cream cheese. For marinara, use pesto or a white sauce if you like. - Dairy-free options for the recipe: Use vegan ricotta made from nuts. For cheese, try a dairy-free mozzarella. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish. Pro Tips Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach provides a vibrant flavor and bright color to the dish. If you can find it, opt for fresh over frozen for the best results. Layer Wisely: Make sure to layer the ingredients evenly. This ensures that every bite has a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Adding a blend of mozzarella and provolone or using goat cheese can elevate the dish. Let it Rest: Allow the ravioli bake to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve. {{image_2}} You can add more veggies to your dish. Try adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. Sauté these vegetables before mixing them with the spinach. This gives a rich taste and adds more color. You can also toss in some chopped kale or broccoli for extra nutrition. For those who love meat, you can add chicken or sausage. Cook the chicken ahead of time and shred it. If you prefer sausage, use Italian sausage for a nice kick. Mix the meat into the spinach filling or layer it with the ravioli. This will boost the flavor and make the meal heartier. Changing the cheese can transform your dish. Use a mix of cheeses like fontina, goat cheese, or cheddar. Each cheese adds a unique twist. For a tangy flavor, try goat cheese. For a creamier texture, use fontina. Mixing cheeses can make your ravioli bake even more delightful! To store leftovers, let the dish cool down first. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. This keeps the creamy spinach ricotta ravioli bake fresh in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply take it out and reheat. Freezing baked ravioli is easy! First, let the dish cool completely. Then, cut it into portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer bag. You can freeze the baked ravioli for up to three months. Label the bags with the date so you know when you made it. To reheat, I recommend using the oven for the best taste. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the cover from the dish and place it in the oven. Heat it for about 20-25 minutes or until it's hot and bubbly. You can also use the microwave for a quicker option. Just heat it in short bursts, checking often to make sure it heats evenly. Enjoy your dish like it was freshly baked! Yes, you can! Ravioli comes in many flavors. You can choose cheese, meat, or vegetable fillings. Each type changes the taste and feel of the dish. For a twist, try mushroom ravioli or butternut squash ravioli. These options add depth and flavor. Just make sure the ravioli is fresh or frozen, as they cook differently. Look for a bubbly top. The cheese should be golden brown. You can poke a fork in the dish to check if it's hot inside. If the cheese melts and bubbles, it’s ready. Let it sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps it set up nicely. Absolutely, making this dish ahead is easy. You can prepare it the night before. Just cover it and keep it in the fridge. When you're ready to bake, take it out and add a few extra minutes to the cook time. This way, you save time on busy days and still enjoy a great meal. This recipe for cheese-filled ravioli bake gives you a tasty dish with fresh spinach and gooey cheese. You learned how to prepare, layer, and bake this meal step by step. Always remember to mix flavors and try new ingredients to suit your taste. Storing leftovers or freezing parts allows you to enjoy this dish later. With each bite, you'll love the simple joy of homemade cooking. Dive in and make your version of this easy and delicious ravioli bake!$

Creamy Spinach Ricotta Ravioli Bake

A delicious and comforting baked dish featuring layers of cheese-filled ravioli, fresh spinach, and a creamy ricotta mixture, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 35

Total Time 50

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4

Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients

12 oz cheese-filled ravioli
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 2 grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup marinara sauce
0.5 tsp garlic powder
0.5 tsp onion powder
0.5 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
to taste salt and pepper
for drizzling olive oil
for garnish fresh basil leaves

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
If using fresh ravioli, cook according to package instructions until al dente. For frozen ravioli, boil for about 3-4 minutes until slightly softened. Drain and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the cooked ravioli over the sauce, followed by half of the spinach mixture, and sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Repeat the layering process with the remaining ravioli, spinach mixture, marinara sauce, and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. If desired, sprinkle red pepper flakes for added heat.
Drizzle a little olive oil on top of the dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Notes

Feel free to add more vegetables or proteins as desired.

Keyword bake, cheese, comfort food, ravioli, spinach