Cheesy Ravioli and Savory Meatball Casserole
This Cheesy Ravioli and Savory Meatball Casserole is an inviting and hearty dish that combines the delightful flavors of tender cheese-filled ravioli and juicy meatballs simmered in a rich garlic and herb sauce. It's an effortless one-dish meal that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or as a show-stopping centerpiece for gatherings and potlucks. With its gooey melted mozzarella and the aromatic touch of fresh basil, this casserole will have everyone coming back for seconds.
N/A
Servings
300
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Hunt's garlic and herb spaghetti sauce
1 (26 ounce can)
Frozen meatballs
16 (cut into quarters)
Frozen cheese ravioli
1 (24 ounce package, cooked according to package directions)
Shredded mozzarella cheese
1 (cup)
Fresh basil leaves
to taste (for garnish)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the garlic and herb spaghetti sauce with the frozen meatballs cut into quarters. Stir occasionally until the mixture is hot and the meatballs are heated through.
2
While the sauce and meatballs are heating, cook the frozen cheese ravioli according to package directions. Once cooked, drain and keep warm.
3
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
4
Spray a 13x9 inch glass baking dish with cooking spray. Spread the warm ravioli evenly across the bottom of the dish.
5
Carefully ladle the hot sauce and meatball mixture over the top of the ravioli, ensuring an even distribution.
6
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top layer.
7
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
8
Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to achieve a golden, bubbly cheese layer. Once done, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
9
Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
10g
Fat
35g
Carbs
16g
Protein
1.7g
Fiber
2g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cheesy Ravioli and Savory Meatball Casserole?
It is a hearty one-dish meal combining cheese-filled ravioli and meatballs in a rich garlic and herb sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and fresh basil.
What are the main ingredients for this recipe?
The main ingredients include Hunt's garlic and herb spaghetti sauce, frozen meatballs, frozen cheese ravioli, shredded mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil leaves.
How many calories are in a serving?
There are 300 calories per serving.
What type of ravioli should I use?
The recipe calls for a 24-ounce package of frozen cheese ravioli.
What sauce is recommended for this casserole?
A 26-ounce can of Hunt's garlic and herb spaghetti sauce is recommended.
How many meatballs are required?
The recipe uses 16 frozen meatballs.
How should the meatballs be prepared before assembly?
The frozen meatballs should be cut into quarters and heated in a saucepan with the spaghetti sauce.
What size baking dish do I need?
A 13x9 inch glass baking dish is required for this recipe.
What is the oven temperature for baking?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
How long does the casserole need to bake?
Bake covered for 20 minutes, then uncovered for an additional 5 minutes to brown the cheese.
Do I need to cover the dish while baking?
Yes, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil for the first 20 minutes of baking.
What kind of cheese is used for the topping?
One cup of shredded mozzarella cheese is used to top the casserole.
How much protein is in this dish?
Each serving contains 16 grams of protein.
Is this recipe suitable for large gatherings?
Yes, it is described as a show-stopping centerpiece for gatherings, potlucks, and is a crowd pleaser.
Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh ravioli, but ensure they are cooked according to their specific package directions before assembling the casserole.
How much fat is in this casserole?
There is 10 grams of fat per serving.
Are there any fresh herbs in this recipe?
Yes, fresh basil leaves are used as a garnish for an aromatic touch.
What is the carbohydrate count?
Each serving contains 35 grams of carbohydrates.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
There is 2 grams of sugar per serving.
How much fiber is provided per serving?
The dish contains 1.7 grams of fiber per serving.
Can I use a different brand of spaghetti sauce?
Yes, while Hunt's is suggested, any 26-ounce can of garlic and herb flavored sauce will work.
Do I need to cook the ravioli before putting it in the oven?
Yes, the frozen cheese ravioli must be cooked according to package directions and drained before assembly.
How do I start the preparation process?
Start by combining the sauce and quartered meatballs in a saucepan over medium heat until hot.
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 5 ingredients in total.
What is the final garnish for the dish?
Garnish the finished casserole with fresh basil leaves.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the components and refrigerate the dish, then bake it when ready to serve.
Is this considered a comfort food recipe?
Yes, it is tagged as comfort food and is designed to be a hearty and inviting meal.
What should I do if I do not have fresh basil?
You can use dried basil in the sauce or omit the garnish, though fresh basil adds the best aroma.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake in two 13x9 inch dishes for a larger crowd.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.