If you are craving a comforting, flavorful meal that’s both fuss-free and satisfying, the Easy Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake Recipe is here to delight your taste buds and simplify your dinnertime. This dish layers tender cheese ravioli with vibrant spinach and zesty marinara, all melted together with gooey mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan that creates a golden crust. With fragrant herbs enhancing every bite, it’s the perfect recipe to pull together quickly while still feeling like a special treat for your family or friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Easy Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake Recipe is straightforward, but each component plays a vital role in building its irresistible flavor and texture. From the hearty ravioli to the fresh spinach, every ingredient contributes to a balanced dish that looks as good as it tastes.
- Frozen cheese ravioli (25 oz): Using frozen or fresh ravioli gives you a creamy, cheesy foundation that cooks perfectly in the bake.
- Marinara sauce (24 oz jar): A rich, tangy tomato sauce that infuses the dish with brightness and moisture.
- Fresh spinach (2 cups, chopped): Adds freshness, a pop of color, and a gentle earthiness to balance the richness.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 1/2 cups): Melts into gooey, stretchy goodness that holds everything together deliciously.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Brings a salty, nutty depth and helps create a slightly crisp topping.
- Dried basil (1 teaspoon): Offers aromatic, sweet herb notes that brighten the overall flavor profile.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Adds a classic Mediterranean earthiness, amplifying the tomato and cheese combo.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds subtle warmth and a hint of spice without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors perfectly.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon, optional): For greasing the baking dish to prevent sticking and add a slight richness.
How to Make Easy Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish with olive oil to ensure your ravioli bake won’t stick and will come out perfectly golden on the edges.
Step 2: Layer the Ravioli and Spinach
Place a layer of frozen or thawed cheese ravioli evenly across the baking dish. Spread the chopped fresh spinach evenly over the ravioli, making sure every bite has that lovely burst of greens.
Step 3: Add the Marinara Sauce and Seasonings
Pour the marinara sauce over the ravioli and spinach, spreading it gently but thoroughly. Sprinkle the dried basil, oregano, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper over the top for a fragrant herb kick that will elevate the dish beautifully.
Step 4: Top with Cheese
Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese across the top, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. These cheeses will melt into a bubbly, golden crust that makes this bake irresistibly cheesy and comforting.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving so the layers set nicely.
How to Serve Easy Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten each serving, sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top. A drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil or a light dusting of red pepper flakes can add beautiful flavor and a little visual flair.
Side Dishes
This bake pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette, which balances the richness and adds refreshing crunch. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is another excellent choice for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive twist, try serving individual portions in small ramekins topped with a sprig of fresh herb or a small wedge of lemon to brighten the palate. Alternatively, jazz up the presentation by layering the bake with colorful roasted cherry tomatoes or pine nuts for texture and eye appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover ravioli bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen overnight, making reheated portions just as delicious, if not better than fresh.
Freezing
This Easy Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake Recipe also freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until warmed through and the cheese bubbles again. For a quicker option, microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to maintain moisture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh ravioli will cook faster, so keep an eye on the bake to avoid overcooking. It will add a lovely tender texture, perfect for this recipe.
What if I don’t have spinach? Can I use other greens?
Yes, kale, Swiss chard, or even arugula can work well. Just chop and sauté them lightly beforehand to soften their texture and reduce moisture.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, simply substitute the cheese ravioli with a vegan version, swap the mozzarella and Parmesan for plant-based cheeses that melt well, and confirm the marinara sauce is free of animal products.
Is it possible to add protein to this dish?
Definitely! Cooked Italian sausage, ground beef, or grilled chicken make delicious additions layered in the bake to make it even heartier.
Do I have to thaw the ravioli before baking?
No need to thaw the ravioli. Using frozen ravioli saves time and works perfectly as it will cook through during the baking process along with the rest of the ingredients.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the comforting charm of the Easy Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake Recipe when it comes to a quick, home-cooked meal that feels special every time. Whether you’re cooking for your family, friends, or just indulging yourself, this flavorful, cheesy bake promises to become one of those dishes you reach for again and again. So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a warm hug of Italian-inspired goodness that’s as effortless as it is delicious.
Print
Easy Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake is a simple, comforting Italian-inspired dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Featuring tender cheese ravioli baked in a flavorful marinara sauce with fresh spinach and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, this casserole is rich, cheesy, and full of classic herbs like basil and oregano. Ready in under 40 minutes, it’s a delicious way to enjoy a hearty, cheesy pasta bake that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (25 oz) package frozen cheese ravioli (or fresh ravioli)
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for greasing the baking dish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the ravioli dish.
- Cook the Ravioli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ravioli according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Mix the Sauce and Spinach: In a large bowl, combine the marinara sauce, chopped fresh spinach, dried basil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to blend all the ingredients.
- Combine Ravioli and Sauce: Gently fold the cooked ravioli into the sauce mixture, ensuring all ravioli are well coated.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking. Spread half of the ravioli and sauce mixture evenly in the dish.
- Add Cheese Layers: Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and a portion of the grated Parmesan cheese over the ravioli layer.
- Layer Remaining Ravioli and Cheese: Add the remaining ravioli mixture on top and finish with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden on top.
- Serve: Remove from oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your flavorful and cheesy tomato spinach ravioli bake!
Notes
- You can substitute fresh ravioli if preferred, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.
- Feel free to add cooked Italian sausage or ground beef for a meatier dish.
- Use gluten-free ravioli to make this dish gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
