This Cheesy Baked Ravioli with Italian Sausage is the ultimate weeknight comfort food — quick, hearty, and irresistibly cheesy. With layers of tender ravioli, savory sausage, and rich marinara sauce, this baked pasta dish delivers all the flavors of classic lasagna but with half the effort. It’s a family favorite that’s perfect for busy nights or cozy weekend dinners.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves comforting Italian-inspired meals without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s ideal for busy families, beginner cooks, college students, or anyone who wants to impress with a cheesy, crowd-pleasing dish that tastes homemade.
Why It’s Great
- Quick and easy: No need to pre-cook pasta — just layer and bake!
- Comforting and hearty: Every bite is packed with cheesy, saucy goodness.
- Customizable: Add veggies, different meats, or switch up the cheese blend.
- Perfect for leftovers: It reheats beautifully, making it great for meal prep.
Ingredients
You’ll need the following simple ingredients:
- 1 jar (about 24–25 oz) of marinara sauce, store-bought or homemade
- 1 pound mild Italian sausage
- 1 bag (about 20–25 oz) of cheese ravioli, fresh or frozen
- 2 cups shredded Italian cheese blend (mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups
- Aluminum foil
Instructions
1. Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and crumbly, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess grease if needed. Stir in half of the marinara sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes.
2. Assemble the Layers
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Add a layer of cheese ravioli, followed by a layer of the sausage mixture, and sprinkle with shredded cheese. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
3. Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
4. Serve
Let the baked ravioli cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if you like. Serve with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also freeze baked ravioli for up to 2 months — just thaw overnight before reheating.
FAQ
Can I use frozen ravioli?
Yes, no need to thaw — just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Definitely. Skip the sausage and use sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini instead.
What cheese blend works best?
A mix of mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan melts beautifully for that gooey, stretchy texture.
Can I use a different sauce?
Absolutely! Try tomato basil, spicy arrabbiata, or even a creamy alfredo for a twist.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Baked Ravioli with Italian Sausage is the perfect shortcut to a cozy, home-cooked Italian meal. It’s rich, satisfying, and full of flavor — a guaranteed hit for family dinners or potlucks. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a delicious, cheesy comfort dish on the table in no time.
