
If you’re in need of a quick, comforting, and utterly delicious dinner, then this Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake is just what you’re looking for!
With layers of tender ravioli, fresh spinach, savory marinara sauce, and plenty of melty cheese, this dish is the ultimate weeknight dinner.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual get-together, this easy bake is guaranteed to please everyone at the table.
Let’s dive into how to make this Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake!
Ingredients Needed
Before you get started, let’s take a look at what you’ll need to make this cheesy, savory bake:
- Fresh or Frozen Ravioli: Choose from cheese-filled, spinach, or any other variety you love.
- Tomato Sauce: A rich marinara or your favorite pasta sauce will work wonders here.
- Fresh Spinach: Adds a boost of flavor and nutrients, but you can also use frozen spinach if needed (just make sure to thaw and drain it well!).
- Mozzarella & Parmesan Cheese: For that bubbly, golden top that everyone loves.
- Optional Add-ins: Feel free to throw in cooked chicken, Italian sausage, or mushrooms for added protein and flavor.
How to Make Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake
Making this Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake is a breeze! Follow these simple steps to create a dish that everyone will rave about:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s nice and hot when your casserole goes in.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with a thin layer of olive oil or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Start Layering the Ingredients
- Layer 1: Begin by spreading a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of the dish.
- Layer 2: Add a layer of ravioli (you can use fresh or frozen ravioli).
- Layer 3: Top the ravioli with a generous handful of spinach.
- Layer 4: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the spinach.
Step 4: Repeat the Layers
Continue layering until you’ve used up all your ingredients. The top layer should be cheese, as it will melt into a gooey, golden crust.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
Tips for the Best Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake
Want to make this dish even better? Here are a few tips for perfection:
- Use high-quality ravioli for the best flavor. Fresh or frozen both work, but opt for one that’s packed with flavor.
- Fresh spinach is ideal, but if you’re in a pinch, frozen spinach works too—just make sure it’s fully thawed and drained.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick if you enjoy a bit of heat.
- Make it ahead: You can assemble this dish the night before and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven!
Variations and Substitutions
This dish is highly adaptable! Here are some ideas to customize it:
- Greens Swap: Don’t have spinach? Kale or arugula can be great alternatives.
- Alfredo Sauce: If you’re craving something richer, use a creamy Alfredo sauce instead of marinara.
- Add Protein: Add grilled chicken, crumbled Italian sausage, or even shrimp to turn this bake into a heartier meal.
- Make it Vegan: Swap out the cheese and ravioli for plant-based versions, and use a tomato sauce that doesn’t contain dairy.
Serving Suggestions for Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake
While this bake is hearty on its own, here are some great side dish ideas:
- Crisp Green Salad: A light salad with balsamic dressing complements the richness of the pasta bake. You can find our salad recipes here.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread for dipping into the tomato sauce.
- A Glass of Wine: Pair this dish with a nice glass of red wine like Chianti or a sparkling water for a refreshing contrast.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Got leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store and reheat your Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or pop it in the microwave for a quicker option.
- Freezing: To freeze, assemble and bake the casserole as usual, then let it cool completely. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
FAQ’s
Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh ravioli works perfectly for this recipe. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package before assembling the casserole.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake the night before, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to cook, just pop it in the oven and bake as instructed.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this dish freezes well. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.
Easy Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake
Ingredients
- 1 (25 oz) package frozen or fresh ravioli (cheese or spinach-filled)
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (or your favorite pasta sauce)
- 4 cups fresh spinach washed and roughly chopped
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for greasing the pan
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder optional for extra flavor
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning optional for added flavor
- Red pepper flakes optional for a spicy kick
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when your casserole goes in.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
- Layer 1: Start by spreading 1/3 of the marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Layer 2: Add half of the ravioli in a single layer on top of the sauce.
- Layer 3: Top the ravioli with 2 cups of spinach.
- Layer 4: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese over the spinach.
Step 4: Repeat the Layers
- Layer 5: Add another 1/3 of the marinara sauce, followed by the remaining ravioli.
- Layer 6: Add the rest of the spinach.
- Layer 7: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 5: Bake the Dish
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Allow the bake to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.