One Pan Creamy Baked Ravioli
Savor the delightful flavors of One Pan Creamy Baked Ravioli—a meal that combines ease and indulgence. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, or even casual gatherings with friends. With tender ravioli enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce and topped with melting mozzarella, it’s a comforting option everyone will love. Plus, the one-pan preparation means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish takes only 10 minutes of prep time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of heavy cream and marinara sauce creates a deliciously rich taste that pairs perfectly with the ravioli.
- One-Pan Convenience: Cook everything in a single skillet, which means easy cooking and even easier cleanup!
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins for extra flavor.
- Comfort Food Delight: This dish is perfect for cozy nights in or when you want to impress guests without too much effort.
Tools and Preparation
To make your One Pan Creamy Baked Ravioli experience smooth and enjoyable, gather your essential tools before you start cooking.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large oven-safe skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Oven mitts
Importance of Each Tool
- Large oven-safe skillet: This allows you to cook everything in one pan, saving time on cleanup.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Precise measurements ensure the right balance of flavors in your creamy sauce.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Essential for mixing ingredients without scratching your skillet’s surface.
Ingredients
For the Ravioli Dish
- 18 ounces frozen cheese ravioli
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
How to Make One Pan Creamy Baked Ravioli
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your dish cooks evenly once it’s placed inside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Stir in the marinara sauce, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and bring to a simmer.
Step 3: Add the Ravioli
Gently stir in the frozen ravioli. Make sure they are evenly coated with the creamy sauce for maximum flavor.
Step 4: Bake
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil. Enjoy your delicious one-pan meal!
How to Serve One Pan Creamy Baked Ravioli
Serving One Pan Creamy Baked Ravioli is all about enhancing its creamy goodness and making it a delightful experience for everyone at your table. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will take your meal to the next level.
Pair with Fresh Salad
- Mixed Green Salad: Toss together fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy Caesar dressing complement the richness of the ravioli perfectly.
Add Crunchy Bread
- Garlic Breadsticks: Warm, buttery garlic breadsticks are perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
- Italian Focaccia: This flavorful bread can be served warm and is great for soaking up extra sauce.
Include a Splash of Color
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add color and nutrition.
- Steamed Broccoli: A simple side that adds a pop of green and balances the meal.
How to Perfect One Pan Creamy Baked Ravioli
To achieve the best results with your One Pan Creamy Baked Ravioli, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish turns out rich and delicious every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh cheese ravioli instead of frozen can enhance flavor and texture.
- Adjust Creaminess: Modify the amount of heavy cream based on your preference for richness. You can even substitute half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Add Protein: For added substance, toss in cooked chicken or Italian sausage before baking.
- Experiment with Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can elevate the dish’s flavor profile beyond Italian seasoning alone.
- Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the oven; overbaking can dry out the ravioli. Aim for melted cheese and bubbly edges.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after baking helps set the sauce and makes serving easier.
Best Side Dishes for One Pan Creamy Baked Ravioli
Pairing sides with your One Pan Creamy Baked Ravioli enhances your dining experience. Here are some excellent options that will complement this dish beautifully.
- Garlic Bread: Classic garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
- Caprese Salad: A fresh mix of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil adds brightness to your plate.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus provides a nice crunch alongside the creamy pasta.
- Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables adds variety to your meal.
- Spinach Salad: Spinach topped with nuts and fruit offers both texture and nutrition.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts bring a savory element that pairs well with ravioli’s creaminess.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making One Pan Creamy Baked Ravioli, it’s easy to make a few missteps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the Preheat: Not preheating your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure the cheese melts perfectly and the ravioli cook evenly.
- Overcooking the Sauce: Allowing the sauce to boil too long can cause it to thicken excessively. Simmer gently to maintain a creamy texture that coats the ravioli well.
- Not Using Enough Seasoning: Under-seasoning can result in bland flavors. Taste as you go and adjust salt and spices to enhance the dish’s overall taste.
- Using Fresh Ravioli: Fresh ravioli may not cook properly in this one-pan method. Stick with frozen cheese ravioli for consistent texture and flavor.
- Neglecting Garnish: Skipping fresh basil or other garnishes can make your dish less appealing. Always add a touch of freshness at the end for visual appeal and taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing One Pan Creamy Baked Ravioli
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating One Pan Creamy Baked Ravioli
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between sessions, until hot.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to maintain moisture, stirring occasionally until heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is One Pan Creamy Baked Ravioli?
One Pan Creamy Baked Ravioli is a simple yet delicious dish that features frozen cheese ravioli baked in a creamy marinara sauce topped with melted cheese.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes! While this recipe uses ravioli, you can substitute with other pasta shapes like tortellini or even penne for a different twist.
How do I customize my One Pan Creamy Baked Ravioli?
Feel free to add cooked vegetables, such as spinach or mushrooms, for added nutrition and flavor. You can also mix in cooked chicken or sausage for extra protein.
What should I serve with this dish?
This creamy baked ravioli pairs well with a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
Final Thoughts
One Pan Creamy Baked Ravioli is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. This recipe makes weeknight dinners effortless while allowing room for customization based on your preferences. Try it out today; you’ll love how easy and delicious it is!
One Pan Creamy Baked Ravioli
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Savor the comforting goodness of One Pan Creamy Baked Ravioli, a delightful dish that effortlessly combines convenience with indulgence. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this recipe features tender cheese ravioli submerged in a rich, creamy sauce and topped with gooey melted mozzarella. With just one pan required, cleanup is a breeze—allowing you more time to enjoy this satisfying meal with loved ones.
Ingredients
- 18 ounces frozen cheese ravioli
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add marinara sauce, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; simmer gently.
- Stir in frozen ravioli until well coated.
- Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before garnishing with fresh basil and serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
