When you need a comforting dinner that comes together with minimal effort, this Meatball and Ravioli Casserole is the perfect solution.
Layers of tender cheese ravioli, savory meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese create a hearty meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare.
This family-friendly baked casserole is ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or anytime you’re craving classic Italian-inspired comfort food.
Using convenient frozen ravioli and fully cooked meatballs keeps prep work to a minimum while delivering maximum flavor in every cheesy, satisfying bite.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 1 (9-ounce) package frozen cheese ravioli
- 1 (14-ounce) package frozen cooked meatballs, thawed
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving if desired
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, or to taste (optional)
- Olive oil cooking spray
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly coat a 9×13-inch casserole dish with olive oil cooking spray.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Arrange half of the frozen ravioli in a single layer over the sauce. Top with half of the meatballs and sprinkle with 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese.
- Layer the remaining ravioli over the cheese, followed by the remaining meatballs. Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the top.
- Finish with the remaining 1 cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
- Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the cheese is fully melted and lightly golden.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Chefs Notes
- Spinach and cheese ravioli adds extra flavor and color to this casserole.
- Use your favorite marinara, meat sauce, or Italian sausage pasta sauce for a personalized touch.
- Fresh refrigerated ravioli can be substituted for frozen ravioli.
- Pecorino Romano cheese makes an excellent substitute for Parmesan if you prefer a sharper flavor.
- For extra richness, add a layer of ricotta cheese between the ravioli layers.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat beautifully.