Baked Ravioli and Meatball Casserole
This Baked Ravioli and Meatball Casserole is the perfect dish for busy weeknights when you need something hearty and satisfying on the table in a hurry. Combining tender cheese ravioli with savory meatballs and a rich, flavorful pasta sauce, this recipe is a delicious blend of convenience and comfort food. Simply prepare it earlier in the day, and when it’s time for dinner, pop it in the oven for just 30 minutes to create a delightful meal that everyone will love. With a gooey layer of melted mozzarella on top and a touch of Italian seasoning, this casserole brings together classic flavors in a family-friendly dish that makes excellent leftovers, too!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Frozen cheese ravioli
16 ounces (Cooked and drained)
Frozen cooked meatballs
20 (Thawed)
Pasta sauce
26 ounces (Jarred)
Shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup (Ready to use)
Dry Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon (Ready to use)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
Spray a 9-inch by 13-inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray to ensure easy removal.
3
Evenly distribute the cooked and drained cheese ravioli in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
4
Arrange the thawed meatballs over the ravioli, spreading them out evenly.
5
Pour the pasta sauce uniformly over the ravioli and meatballs, ensuring everything is covered.
6
Sprinkle the dry Italian seasoning evenly across the dish for added flavor.
7
Top the casserole with shredded mozzarella cheese, spreading it out to cover the sauce.
8
Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the dish is heated through.
9
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Baked Ravioli and Meatball Casserole?
It is a hearty dish that combines cheese ravioli, meatballs, and pasta sauce topped with melted mozzarella cheese.
How many ingredients are needed for this recipe?
There are 5 ingredients: frozen cheese ravioli, frozen meatballs, pasta sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Italian seasoning.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
How long does the casserole need to bake?
The casserole should bake for 30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
What size baking pan is required?
A 9-inch by 13-inch baking pan is recommended for this recipe.
Do the meatballs need to be thawed before cooking?
Yes, the recipe specifies using 20 frozen cooked meatballs that have been thawed.
How should the ravioli be prepared before layering?
The frozen cheese ravioli should be cooked and drained before being placed in the baking pan.
What type of cheese is used for the topping?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
What seasoning is used in this dish?
One tablespoon of dry Italian seasoning is sprinkled over the casserole for added flavor.
How much pasta sauce is required?
You will need a 26-ounce jar of pasta sauce.
What is the amount of ravioli needed?
The recipe uses 16 ounces of cheese ravioli.
How do I prevent the casserole from sticking to the pan?
Spray the baking pan with non-stick cooking spray before adding any ingredients.
In what order should the ingredients be layered?
Layer the cooked ravioli first, then meatballs, followed by pasta sauce, Italian seasoning, and finally the mozzarella cheese.
Is this recipe suitable for busy weeknights?
Yes, it is specifically described as a perfect dish for busy weeknights because it is quick and easy to assemble.
Does this recipe make good leftovers?
Yes, this casserole is noted for making excellent leftovers.
Can this dish be prepared in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it earlier in the day and pop it in the oven when you are ready for dinner.
How long should the casserole cool before serving?
It is recommended to let the casserole cool for a few minutes after removing it from the oven.
Is this a kid-friendly meal?
Yes, the combination of pasta, meatballs, and melted cheese makes it a family-friendly dish that everyone will love.
Can I use different types of meatballs?
The recipe specifies frozen cooked meatballs, but any variety (beef, turkey, or plant-based) can be used as long as they are thawed.
Can I use a different type of sauce?
Yes, any 26-ounce jar of your favorite pasta sauce will work for this recipe.
Is the mozzarella cheese ready to use?
Yes, the recipe suggests using shredded mozzarella cheese that is ready to use.
Can I add more cheese if I prefer?
While the recipe calls for 1 cup, you can adjust the amount of cheese to suit your personal preference.
Does the ravioli stay tender in the oven?
Yes, baking it with the sauce ensures the ravioli remains tender and flavorful.
How do I know when the dish is finished cooking?
The dish is ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly and the entire casserole is heated through.
Is this considered comfort food?
Yes, the description labels it as a delicious blend of convenience and comfort food.
Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
While the recipe specifies frozen, you can use fresh ravioli; just ensure they are cooked and drained before assembly.
What is the serving suggestion for this dish?
The dish is a complete meal on its own but can be served with a side salad or garlic bread.
How many meatballs are in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 20 meatballs.
Is Italian seasoning necessary?
The Italian seasoning adds a classic flavor profile to the dish, though it can be adjusted to taste.
How do I distribute the sauce?
Pour the sauce uniformly over the ravioli and meatballs to ensure everything is evenly covered.