Ravioli and Meatball Casserole Recipe Review: Anything This Tasty and Easy Should Be Illegal

If you’re in the mood for a comforting Italian dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor, look no further than my Ravioli and Meatball Casserole. This delightful recipe combines the convenience of frozen ravioli with the savory goodness of meatballs and a cheesy, bubbly topping. In this article, I’ll guide you through the process of creating this mouthwatering dish, step by step, and provide additional tips and information to enhance your culinary experience.

Ravioli and Meatball Casserole Recipe

Ingredients:

• Frozen ravioli
• Meat sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Meatballs (pre-made or your favorite homemade recipe)
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Foil

Instructions:

1. Boil Water:
   • Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. You’ll need enough water to fully submerge the frozen ravioli. Adding a pinch of salt to the boiling water can enhance the pasta’s flavor.
2. Cook Ravioli:
   • Once the water is boiling, carefully add the frozen ravioli to the pot. Let them cook for approximately 3 minutes, or until they are tender but still slightly firm. Be sure not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook in the oven. When they are done, drain them thoroughly.
3. Preheat Your Oven:
   • While the ravioli are cooking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that it’s ready to go when you’re finished with the next steps.
4. Prepare the Baking Dish:
   • Take a baking dish and spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom. This layer of sauce will provide a flavorful base for my casserole.
5. Arrange Ravioli:
   • After draining the cooked ravioli, arrange a single layer of them over the meat sauce in the baking dish. This layer of pasta will serve as the foundation of my casserole.
6. Add Meatballs:
   • Place the meatballs evenly on top of the layer of ravioli. The combination of meatballs and ravioli promises a hearty and satisfying meal. You can use pre-made frozen meatballs or prepare your favorite homemade meatball recipe.
7. Cover with Meat Sauce:
   • Pour the remaining meat sauce generously over the ravioli and meatballs, ensuring they are well-covered. This sauce will infuse the entire dish with rich, savory flavor. If you have the time, making your own meat sauce with fresh ingredients can elevate the taste of the dish.
8. Sprinkle Mozzarella Cheese:
   • It’s time to add the crowning touch. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole. The cheese will melt to perfection during baking, creating a golden, bubbly crust.
9. Bake Covered:
   • Cover the baking dish with foil to keep the moisture in and bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld and the ingredients to cook together.
10. Final Bake:
    • After the initial baking time, remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. This final step ensures that my casserole gets that irresistible cheesy crust.

Ravioli and Meatball Casserole Serving Suggestions:

• Once your Ravioli and Meatball Casserole is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle.
• Garnish with fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
• Serve with a side of garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• This casserole is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings with friends. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can easily be doubled or customized to suit your preferences.

Wrapping Up

In just a few simple steps, you can create a Ravioli and Meatball Casserole that’s sure to please both your taste buds and your family’s. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a special occasion, this recipe delivers the perfect blend of convenience and flavor. Enjoy your comforting Italian feast, and don’t forget to pair it with your favorite sides for the ultimate dining experience.

Buon appetito!

Tony Simons

Tony has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Phoenix and over 11 years of writing experience between multiple publications in the tech, photography, lifestyle, and deal industries.