Ravioli Lasagna

“`html

Ravioli Lasagna: A Twist on a Classic Comfort Dish

Imagine all the comforting flavors of a classic lasagna, but with half the effort and double the excitement. Meet the Ravioli Lasagna, a delightful twist that uses frozen cheese ravioli in place of traditional lasagna noodles. This recipe retains all the ooey-gooey cheesiness and rich flavors you love, without the hassle of boiling noodles. Perfect for busy nights or when you want to impress with minimal fuss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Ravioli Lasagna is a game-changer for several reasons:

• No more boiling noodles – save time and effort.
• All the classic lasagna goodness with a fun, cheesy twist.
• Perfect for feeding a crowd or for enjoying leftovers.
• Customizable with your favorite ingredients or sauces.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 13×9 baking dish
• Large frying pan
• Mixing bowls
• Aluminum foil
• Non-stick spray

Ingredients

• 1 pound of ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 24 ounces of marinara sauce
• 3 cloves of garlic, chopped
• 2 cups of ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup of parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup chopped parsley
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 25 ounces of frozen cheese ravioli
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and spray a 13×9 baking dish with non-stick spray.
2. In a large frying pan over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned. Drain off excess fat.
3. Add the marinara sauce and chopped garlic to the pan. Let it simmer over low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring often.
4. While the sauce is simmering, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl.
5. Spread one-third of the meat mixture evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
6. Layer with a single layer of frozen cheese ravioli, half of the ricotta mixture, and another one-third of the meat sauce. Repeat the layers, ending with the remaining meat sauce.
7. Sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella cheese. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 40 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. Remove from the oven and let it sit for about 10 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the ravioli is well-coated with sauce to prevent dryness.
• Letting the lasagna rest after baking helps it set and makes slicing easier.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Try adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
• Use spicy sausage instead of ground beef for a kick of flavor.
• Experiment with different cheeses like a blend of cheddar and mozzarella.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: Approximately 450
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 25g
Fiber: 3g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh ravioli will work just as well. Adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure the pasta is cooked through.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when ready to serve.

What can I serve with Ravioli Lasagna?

This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad and garlic bread.

Conclusion

Ravioli Lasagna is a delightful and easy twist on a beloved classic that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out! We’d love to hear your thoughts and any creative variations you come up with. Enjoy this comforting dish with family and friends, and happy cooking!

“`