Lazy Lasagna with Frozen Cheese Ravioli
A quick and easy twist on traditional lasagna, this dish uses frozen cheese ravioli as a shortcut to mimic lasagna layers. With rich marinara sauce, gooey cheese, and savory ground beef, it’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Equipment
- Large pot (for boiling ravioli)
- Skillet or frying pan
- Mixing bowl
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- For the Dish:
- 1 package 25 oz frozen cheese ravioli (about 20–24 pieces)
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 jar 24 oz marinara sauce (or homemade equivalent)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh basil chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven : Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Cook the Ravioli :
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the frozen ravioli according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce :
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to combine flavors.
- Assemble the Dish :
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Arrange half of the cooked ravioli in a single layer over the sauce.
- Spoon half of the remaining meat sauce over the ravioli and sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers: ravioli, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
- Top with the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake :
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve :
- Let the dish cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Notes
Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for a different protein option.
Use gluten-free ravioli for a gluten-free version.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Use gluten-free ravioli for a gluten-free version.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.