If you are craving a comforting, cheesy, and vibrant meal that comes together effortlessly, this Easy Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender ravioli, luscious marinara sauce, and fresh spinach layered with rich mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The blend of herbs and garlic powder enhances each bite, making this bake a true crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug from the inside out.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Easy Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake Recipe is all about simple ingredients that pack a punch. Each one plays a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color, resulting in a dish that feels both hearty and fresh without any fuss.
- Frozen cheese ravioli (25 oz): The star of the dish, providing tender, cheesy goodness that cooks perfectly in the bake.
- Marinara sauce (24 oz jar): Adds rich tomato flavor and moisture, tying all the ingredients together beautifully.
- Fresh spinach (2 cups, chopped): Brings a bright, green freshness and subtle earthiness to balance the rich cheese.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 1/2 cups): Offers that gooey, melty layer everyone loves.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds a salty, nutty depth that complements the mozzarella nicely.
- Dried basil (1 teaspoon): Infuses a sweet and aromatic herbal note that lifts the tomato sauce.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Brings a warm, slightly peppery flavor that enhances the Italian vibe.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Provides a subtle but impactful garlic presence without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon, optional): Perfect for greasing your baking dish to prevent sticking and add a hint of richness.
How to Make Easy Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish with olive oil to ensure the ravioli bake won’t stick. This small step makes cleanup so much easier!
Step 2: Combine Sauce and Seasonings
In a mixing bowl, pour the jar of marinara sauce, then add the dried basil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to distribute those wonderful herbs evenly throughout the sauce. This sauce will infuse every bite with incredible flavor.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Arrange half of the frozen ravioli in the greased baking dish. Spread half of the chopped spinach evenly over the ravioli, then pour half of the seasoned marinara sauce on top. Repeat the layering once more with the remaining ravioli, spinach, and sauce. This layering helps ensure every forkful has a perfect balance of each ingredient.
Step 4: Add the Cheeses
Generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top, then follow with the grated Parmesan cheese. The cheeses will melt and create that irresistible golden crust while adding richness and texture to the dish.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with foil to prevent the cheese from drying out, and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and beautifully browned. Your kitchen will start smelling amazing at this point!
How to Serve Easy Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley are wonderful to sprinkle on top just before serving — they add a burst of color and a fresh, aromatic finish that contrasts perfectly with the melty cheese. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also enhance each bite with a silky richness.
Side Dishes
This bake pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette for a refreshing crunch. Alternatively, garlic bread or a crunchy baguette are fantastic for scooping up every last bit of sauce and melted cheese. The combination hits every texture and flavor note you could want!
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, serve the Easy Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake Recipe in individual ramekins or mini casserole dishes. This makes it feel special and is perfect for portion control when hosting guests. You can also sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or chili flakes on top to add a subtle crunch or a little kick.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once the bake has cooled completely, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and keep refrigerated for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more beautifully as it rests, making for an even tastier meal the next day.
Freezing
This Easy Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake Recipe freezes well! Assemble the dish but don’t bake it yet, cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly. Avoid the microwave for reheating to preserve that delightful baked texture and gooey cheese.
FAQs
Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen for this Easy Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake Recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh ravioli will work just as well and may require slightly less baking time, so keep an eye on the dish as it cooks to avoid overcooking the delicate pasta.
Is it necessary to use both mozzarella and Parmesan cheese?
While you can experiment, the combination of mozzarella and Parmesan gives you the perfect balance of gooey meltiness and savory depth. Mozzarella alone may lack that salty punch, and Parmesan alone won’t create the stretchy, melty texture.
Can I add other vegetables besides spinach?
Yes! Feel free to stir in chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra color and flavor. Just be sure to adjust cooking times if the veggies release a lot of moisture.
Do I need to thaw the frozen ravioli before baking?
No thawing necessary! The ravioli can go straight from the freezer into the layers. This saves time and keeps the pasta tender after baking.
How spicy is this dish? Can I make it spicier?
This recipe is mild and family-friendly as is. To add heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce or on top before baking. You can control the spice level easily this way.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake Recipe is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients and a little love can create a stunningly delicious and fuss-free meal. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish invites cozy moments and happy tummies. I hope you give it a try and find it as comforting and satisfying as I do!
Print
Easy Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake is a quick and comforting Italian-inspired casserole featuring cheesy ravioli baked with a flavorful marinara sauce, tender spinach, and a blend of melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish combines convenience with rich flavors for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Ravioli and Sauce
- 1 (25 oz) package frozen cheese ravioli (or fresh ravioli)
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
Vegetables
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
Cheeses
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for greasing the baking dish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the ravioli casserole.
- Cook Ravioli: Boil a large pot of water and cook the frozen or fresh cheese ravioli according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and for added flavor, if desired.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked ravioli, marinara sauce, chopped fresh spinach, dried basil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
- Assemble Bake: Transfer half of the ravioli mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the mixture. Add the remaining ravioli mixture on top, then finish with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly layered on top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden on top.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the bake to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm as a comforting and hearty meal.
Notes
- You can add cooked Italian sausage or ground beef for extra protein and flavor.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce mix.
- Fresh spinach can be substituted with frozen spinach; just make sure to thaw and drain excess water.
- Use a mixture of mozzarella and provolone cheese for a different melty texture.
- This dish can be made ahead and refrigerated; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
