Dive into a world of simplicity and flavor with our 3-Ingredient Baked Ravioli recipe. This dish marries the ease of preparation with the rich, comforting taste of cheesy ravioli bathed in a luscious pasta sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave a delightful homemade meal without the fuss. Join us on this culinary journey as we explore the art of minimalism in cooking, share cooking notes, variations to elevate your dish, and provide keto and low-carb alternatives. Let’s turn ordinary into extraordinary with just three key ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 (24oz) jar Pasta sauce
- 1 (24oz) bag Cheese ravioli, frozen
- 2 cups Mozzarella, heaping
- 1/2 cup Parmesan
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat to Perfection:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure your baked ravioli cooks evenly.
Step 2: Sauce the Ravioli
- Coat in Pasta Sauce:
- In a bowl, mix the frozen cheese ravioli with the pasta sauce until each piece is generously coated.
Step 3: Layer and Cheese
- Create a Base:
- In a baking dish, spread a layer of the sauced ravioli.
- Mozzarella Magic:
- Sprinkle a heaping amount of mozzarella over the ravioli layer.
- Repeat the Layers:
- Add another layer of sauced ravioli and top with more mozzarella. Repeat until the dish is filled.
Step 4: Parmesan Finale
- Parmesan Perfection:
- Sprinkle Parmesan over the top layer, providing a golden, cheesy finish.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Bliss
- Into the Oven:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the baked ravioli to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Herb Infusion: Elevate the flavors by adding dried herbs such as basil, oregano, or thyme to the pasta sauce.
- Garlic Glory: Enhance the dish with minced garlic for a delightful garlicky kick.
- Spinach Surprise: Introduce fresh spinach between the ravioli layers for added nutrition and a pop of color.
- Meaty Marvel: Brown ground Italian sausage or beef for a heartier, meat-lover’s version.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
Keto Version
- Zoodle Upgrade: Substitute traditional ravioli with zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative.
- Creamy Delight: Mix in a creamy Alfredo sauce made with heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan for a keto-friendly twist.
- Cauliflower Power: Use cauliflower florets as a base instead of pasta for a low-carb, keto-approved option.
Low-Carb Version
- Veggie Fusion: Replace ravioli with layers of thinly sliced eggplant or zucchini for a low-carb, vegetable-centric rendition.
- Cheese Overload: Increase the cheese content to add richness and compensate for the absence of pasta.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts over each layer for a satisfying crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh ravioli will work beautifully in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly as fresh pasta cooks faster than frozen.
Q2: What’s the best type of cheese for extra creaminess?
For a velvety texture, opt for a combination of mozzarella and creamy ricotta. Mix ricotta with a bit of Parmesan for an indulgent twist.
Q3: Can I make this ahead and freeze it?
Certainly! Assemble the dish and freeze it before baking. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Q4: What sides pair well with baked ravioli?
Serve your baked ravioli with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Q5: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover baked ravioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
In conclusion, our 3-Ingredient Baked Ravioli recipe showcases the beauty of simplicity in cooking. Transforming a handful of ingredients into a delightful, cheesy masterpiece is not only satisfying but a testament to the joy of home cooking. Experiment with variations and explore low-carb and keto alternatives to make this dish your own. Share this effortless yet elegant recipe with family and friends, creating moments of joy around the dining table. Whether you’re a culinary novice or a seasoned chef, this baked ravioli dish allows you to experience the magic of minimalism without compromising on flavor. Let the oven work its magic, and may each bite be a celebration of simplicity and indulgence.
