Baked Ravioli
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
20 mins
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Total Time
30 mins
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Servings
4 servings
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
Vegetarian
Baked Ravioli
Description
This Baked Ravioli dish brings together cooked cheese-filled ravioli layered under a smooth sauce made by melting cream cheese into marinara, seasoned with thyme and parsley. The baking dish is finished with shredded mozzarella that melts and forms a delicate cheesy layer. The ravioli maintains a tender bite from brief boiling before baking, absorbing the creamy tomato mixture for richness. Parmesan cheese and chiffonaded basil leaves garnish the dish, adding a salty and herbal brightness. The baking step ensures the sauce melds with the pasta and cheese, creating a warm and cohesive comfort food suitable for casual dinners.
The dish’s texture balances the softness of cooked ravioli with the creamy sauce and the slightly elastic mozzarella topping. Aroma notes from the dried herbs and fresh basil define the layered flavor. This recipe requires minimal active time, relying on simple boiling and a short baking period to develop flavor and meld components.
Ideal for serving immediately while the cheese is still melted and the basil fragrant, this dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to contrast its richness. It fits well as a satisfying vegetarian pasta option without complicated preparations.
Ingredients
- 1 cheese-filled ravioli 16-ounce package
- 2 cups marinara sauce homemade or store-bought
- ⅓ cup cream cheese cubed
- ½ teaspoon thyme dried
- ½ teaspoon parsley dried
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese grated
- ¼ cup basil chiffonade, leaves
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly oil an 8×8 baking dish or coat with nonstick spray.
- In a large pot of boiling water, cook ravioli just until tender, about 2-3 minutes; drain well.
- Combine marinara sauce and cream cheese in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until cream cheese has melted, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in thyme and parsley.
- Spread ravioli into the prepared baking dish. Top with marinara mixture and sprinkle with mozzarella. Place into oven and bake until cheese has melted, about 20 minutes.
- Serve immediately, garnished with Parmesan and basil, if desired.