Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty & Filling : Combines pasta, protein, and cheese for a satisfying meal.
- Easy to Make : Just layer, bake, and enjoy—no fancy techniques required.
- Customizable : Swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Crowd-Pleasing : Always a hit at gatherings, parties, or family dinners.
- Make-Ahead Friendly : Prep ahead and bake when ready to serve.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Serves 6–8
For the Casserole:
- 1 package (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli (or tortellini for variety)
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (or homemade if preferred)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese , divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese , divided
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Optional : 1 cup sliced mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or spinach for added veggies
For Topping:
- Fresh parsley , chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) . Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through.
- Drain excess grease and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Ravioli
- Boil the frozen ravioli according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Arrange half of the cooked ravioli in an even layer over the sauce.
- Top with half of the cooked sausage, half of the marinara sauce, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Repeat the layers: ravioli, sausage, marinara sauce, and remaining cheeses. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
Step 5: Bake
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes .
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes , until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Why This Recipe Works
- Cheese Ravioli Base : Adds creaminess and richness without extra effort.
- Italian Sausage : Provides savory depth and pairs perfectly with marinara.
- Melty Cheese Layers : Creates a gooey, irresistible topping.